Do I Have to Appear in Court If I Was Arrested in Ocean City, MD, but Live Out of State?

Frank Benvenuto, P.A. | DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney in Ocean City, MD

Getting arrested while visiting Ocean City, Maryland, can be overwhelming—especially if you’re from out of state. Whether it was for DUI, disorderly conduct, or another criminal charge, many visitors ask the same urgent question:

“Do I have to come back to Maryland for court?”

The answer depends on the nature of your charges and how your case is handled—but skipping court is never a good option. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Court Requirements for Out-of-State Defendants

If you’ve been arrested or cited while visiting Ocean City, the charges are typically filed in Worcester County District Court. Regardless of where you live, once charges are filed in Maryland, you are legally obligated to appear unless the court says otherwise.

Failing to appear in court—even if you live far away—can result in a bench warrant for your arrest, possible additional charges, and long-term legal consequences.

Arrested in Maryland & you live out of state. Now what?

What Happens If You Don’t Show Up?

Missing a court date—even for a seemingly minor offense—can quickly escalate. If you fail to appear:

• The judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest.

• You could be taken into custody the next time you return to Maryland—or even stopped in your home state.

• Your case could be escalated, and any chance at a favorable outcome may be jeopardized.

• For traffic offenses, your driver’s license could be suspended.

Can an Attorney Appear for Me?

Yes—in many cases, a local defense attorney can appear in court on your behalf, especially for misdemeanor and traffic-related charges. At Frank Benvenuto, P.A., we regularly represent clients from out of state and work to:

• File an entry of appearance with the court

• Handle all pre-trial matters

• Communicate directly with the prosecutor on your behalf

• In some cases, resolve the matter without requiring you to return to Maryland

If your presence is required—such as in a felony case or trial—we’ll ensure you’re fully prepared and minimize the number of times you must appear.

Can my attorney appear for me in court?

What Types of Cases Require a Personal Appearance?

While each case is different, here are general guidelines:

Type of Offense	Attorney Can Appear for You?
Traffic violations (with court date)	Often
DUI/DWI (first offense)	Sometimes, depends on facts
Misdemeanors (e.g. disorderly conduct)	Often
Felonies	Usually not
Probation violations	Usually not

If you’re unsure, we can evaluate your charges and determine whether an appearance is required.

Why Hire Frank Benvenuto, P.A.?

With over 32 years of experience, Frank Benvenuto, P.A. has represented countless clients charged with DUI, assault, drug possession, and other offenses—many of whom reside in other states. We’re based right here in Ocean City, MD, and we understand the local court system inside and out.

Our goal is to protect your record, minimize your stress, and help you avoid unnecessary travel whenever possible.

DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney Frank Benvenuto

Contact Us Today

If you were arrested or cited in Ocean City but live outside Maryland, don’t wait for a court date to pass. Let us help you handle it now—before it becomes a bigger problem.

Call:

Summer Emergencies:

(443) 783-2451

My Office: (410) 641-2999

Or visit www.ocmdlawyer.com

Frank Benvenuto, P.A.

Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney | Serving Ocean City, Maryland and surrounding areas