I am not an expert in LA law, being instead a WI lawyer. However, I do know that it differs from other states in some respects due to it longer French colonial history; much of their law is based upon the Napoleonic Code more that upon English Common Law (which influenced most other states). Even in WI, however, failure to pay any traffic citation upon which a person has been convicted can lead to a "commitment," which is a jail sentence punishing the offender for failure to pay. These can be easily cleared up in WI (if they come from WI courts) simply by paying the fine due. I would be very surprised if the state of LA would extradite anyone for such a commitment, but I am not certain of this. Instead, it may not have much effect anywhere in the world other than in LA, so your friend may not have to fear arrest unless he returns there. My answer here does mean that I am representing you, so be sure to consult your own attorney before deciding on what you should do, or contact my office at 262-633-3090, 333 Main St, Racine, WI 53403, during business hours if you desire formal representation. See me on the web at www.jayknixonlaw.com, or view over 15 years of my previous answers at http://www.lawguru.com/answers/atty_profile/view_attorney_profile/jknixonAttorney answers may contain advertising materials.
