Ticket Information

Information You Should Know About Your Ticket

Receiving a citation does not automatically mean you are guilty of the offense. Each case is evaluated on its own merits, and a judge or jury will determine the verdict. You have the option to represent yourself or hire an attorney, though having legal representation is not required. In fact, most defendants in Municipal Court choose to proceed without an attorney.

Cases heard in Municipal Court are "Class C" misdemeanors. If a verdict of "guilty" is found, a fine will be assessed. In most cases, the fine cannot exceed $500 plus "court costs," which remain the same whether you pay your fine or have a trial.

You Have The Right To A Trial by Jury

You have the right to a jury trial with six members from the community. Alternatively, you may waive this right and have your case heard by a Municipal Judge. If you choose to proceed to trial, the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the offense. To do this, they will present evidence and call witnesses to testify. You or your attorney will have the opportunity to question these witnesses, and you may also call witnesses on your behalf. If needed, the court can issue subpoenas for witnesses or evidence.

During the trial, you have the right to remain silent and are not required to testify. If you choose not to testify, the judge or jury cannot consider your silence as evidence against you.

To plead not guilty and request a trial, you must appear in court within 14 calendar days of receiving your citation. The arraignment hours are listed on your citation.

In some cases, a bond may be required to set your trial. If you post a cash bond and are found "not guilty," the bond will be refunded. If you are found "guilty," the bond or a portion may be applied to the assessed fine.

Plea Options

If you have decided you do not want a trial and wish to enter a plea of nolo contendere (no contest) or guilty, you may pay your fine by mail or in person at the Municipal Court. You may find a list of most offenses and fines by clicking on Standard Fines. If your offense and corresponding fine does not appear on the page, you may call (432) 685-7315 for more information or see the judge at the times listed on the Location and Hours page. Some citations may be paid online by clicking on the Pay Ticket button.

Even if you wish to plea nolo contendere or guilty, you may see the judge and explain any circumstances surrounding your offense. After listening to your side, the judge will assess the fine.

If You Do Not Appear In Court

If you fail to appear in court or by letter within 14 calendar days of receiving the citation, you may be charged with "failure to appear," and a warrant may be issued for your arrest. You may not enter an appearance by phone.

Alternative Options

You may have the option to dismiss your citation by completing a Driving Safety Course or through Deferred Disposition. To take advantage of this opportunity, you must submit an oral or written request to the court by your appearance date. Failure to do so will result in losing this option.

Rules / Policy

• All persons 16 or under must appear before the judge and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
• If you are under the age of 21 and have been charged with an alcohol-related offense, you must appear before a judge. If you are under the age of 16, you must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
• If you are under the age of 16 and have been charged with tobacco-related offenses, you must appear before a judge and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.