I had welfare assistance in 2003, however I was arrested in 2008 for allegedly not reporting my income. I appeared in court and pleaded guilty even though I knew nothing about the case. I started a job as a contractor overseas since Sept 2004 and according to the records the warrant had been issued since June 2007. My question is what happened between 2003 and 2004, why wasn't I notified before? I was overseas at the time and I was afraid to lose my job so I pleaded guilty to get it over with. I was given 2 years of probation and paid 6,000 dollars for the assistance. This is taking a toll on my life because I cannot find a job. Can I re-open my case?

A warrant for what? For not appearing? For not paying restitution? For something else?

Yes, it's too late to re-open (appeal) the case.

You entered a guilty plea and paid $6,000 in restitution even though you knew nothing about the matter and were not guilty? Or am I misunderstanding you?

Why weren't you notified before? I have no idea. Maybe the case slipped through the cracks. Maybe no one could find you. No one knows except for the people who issued the warrant.

I know nothing about laws, but the warrant was issued in 2007 and they charged me with theft. I was overseas and I don't know why I wasn't notified before. I paid an attorney 1,000 who did nothing for me. I haven't been able to find a job for about a year now. I am confused and frustrated because I had never been in trouble before. I want to know if there is anything that can be done?

BUT you entered a guilty plea and paid restitution?