Steps to Resolve a Citation

Steps to take after receiving a citation:

1.) Read your citation.

There is important information provided to you on the citation.

2.) Wait 72 hours after receiving your citation before you contact the court.
This will ensure that the court has received the citation and has the information entered into our computer system.

3.) Answer due by date given on citation.

You may make this appearance either in writing or in person.
>> Telephone calls do not satisfy this requirement.
>> Persons under the age of 17 must appear in court.

When answering a citation you must enter one of the following pleas:

Not Guilty

When you enter this plea, you are stating to the court that you believe you are innocent of the charge and you wish to have your case placed on the trial docket.

Guilty 

Entering this plea means that you are admitting to the offense as charged. You will be required to pay the applicable fine plus all court costs. In certain circumstances, you may qualify for "Deferred Disposition" or Defensive Driving" to help keep the offense of off your record.

Nolo Contendre (or No Contest)

This plea means that you are "not contesting" the offense. You are not admitting that you committed the offense nor are you denying it either. However, you understand that you will still be responsible for paying the applicable fine plus all court costs. In certain circumstances, you may qualify for "Deferred Disposition" or Defensive Driving" to help keep the offense off of your record.

4.) Warrants

If you fail to comply with the steps above and miss your court date a warrant will be issued for your arrest. If a warrant is issued, you can be arrested at your home, employer or during a traffic stop.

Contact the Court at (903) 798-3009 or (903) 798-3790 for more information about warrants and how to resolve them without being arrested.