Do I Have to Appear for Court?

When you received your citation you were given a court date and time, which is listed on the ticket. However, most cases can be handled in the court office without the necessity of having to appear for court on the specified date and time. The court date is only required for the following reasons:

• You have not taken care of your citation before the assigned court date and time
• You want to plead "Not Guilty" and speak to the Prosecutor
• You were charged with an Alcohol Offense and you are a Minor (Under 21)
• You were charged with Assault by Contact - Family Violence

All minors (defendants under 21 years of age at time of offense) with alcohol charges are required to appear in Court to enter their plea. You may have options for trying to keep these charges off of your record, but these can only be recommended by the Prosecutor.

• You were charged with a Tobacco Offense and you are a Minor (Under 18)

All minors (defendants under 18 years of age at time of offense) with tobacco charges are required to appear in Court. You may have options for trying to keep these charges off of your record, but these can only be recommended by the Prosecutor.

• You are a Juvenile (Under 17)

All juveniles (defendants under 17 years of age at time of offense) are required to appear in Court with their parent or legal guardian to answer to their charges. If you wish to request a driver's safety course or deferred disposition, it may be done at your court setting.