Multiple defendants default after failing to appear at Lake Forest Park infraction calendar

Judge Jennifer Grant announced that several defendants failed to appear for their scheduled May 21, 2025 infraction hearings in Lake Forest Park Municipal Court and that the court would enter findings by default and post penalties.

Why it matters: When defendants do not appear after notice, the court may find the infraction committed by default and impose the penalty without a contested hearing. The court confirmed notices had been mailed to addresses on file before entering the default findings.

Defaulted matters

The court identified at least three matters for which defendants did not appear and which the judge found defaulted. The judge stated, “Defendant did not appear for today's hearing. I will find an FTA and the Infraction will be defaulted,” when announcing the disposition. The defendants and case numbers included Nahom Takeste (case referenced by the court), Alicia McCabe (case 250127191) and a defendant listed as Roy (case 250116251). The judge ordered the infractions committed by default and directed the court clerk to post the penalties.

Interpreter appearance and dismissal

Court staff also noted one defendant scheduled on the 2:30 calendar did appear in person at the counter and needed a Spanish interpreter; the clerk filed an order of dismissal on that matter after arranging assistance.

Next steps

The court will post penalties for defaulted infractions and mail notices as appropriate. Defendants who do appear at the counter or who can show cause for nonappearance may pursue remedies according to court rules.