Does a police officer have the right ot arrest you for not signing a citation?
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Does a police officer have the right ot arrest you for not signing a citation?
I was cited for not having my dogs on a leash when we were at the lake swimming with our dogs. When I first refused to sign the ticket, I was threatened with incarceration.
Asked on June 6, 2009 under Criminal Law, Texas
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
A citation of this type (ie fine imposed; no court appearance necessary) does not have to be signed; its preferable (to show that you actually received the citation) but not mandatory. If a court appearance is required the authorities want you to sign because above the signature line there is a notation that you agree to appear in court if required (for example a traffic violation).
Therefore, as to your facts, if a signature is not required than threatening incarceration for failure to sign was inappropriate.
You may want to confirm this with an attorney in your area since I'm not licensed in Texas, but this is my understanding.
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