Minnesota § 609.491 - FAILURE TO APPEAR; PETTY MISDEMEANOR
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 609.491 — FAILURE TO APPEAR; PETTY MISDEMEANOR, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 609.491. FAILURE TO APPEAR; PETTY MISDEMEANOR
Subdivision 1.Considered guilty plea.
If a person fails to appear in court on a charge that is a petty misdemeanor, the failure to appear is considered a plea of guilty and waiver of the right to trial, unless the person appears in court within ten days and shows that the person's failure to appear was due to circumstances beyond the person's control.
Subd. 2.Notice.
A complaint charging a person with a petty misdemeanor must include a conspicuous notice of the provisions of subdivision 1.
History:
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Source: official Minnesota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 609.491
What does Minnesota Statutes § 609.491 cover?
Section 609.491 ("FAILURE TO APPEAR; PETTY MISDEMEANOR") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Minnesota § 609.491?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 609.491" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 609.491 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.