PLEAS

A telephone call is not an appearance. Only fines, costs, fees and information will be given by telephone.

Guilty

By pleading guilty, you admit that you committed the act charged, that the act is prohibited by law, and that you have no defense for your actions. If you were involved in a traffic accident at the time of the alleged offense, your plea of guilty could be used later in a civil suit for damages as an admission by you that you were at fault or were the party responsible for the accident.

Click here to view or print a plea form.

To plead guilty, you must mark the guilty plea and sign the citation. It should then be mailed or delivered in person to the Court along with the appropriate amount owed.

Because the fines and costs vary based on the offense charged, it is necessary to call the Court to determine the exact amount due. A receipt for your payment will be provided to you if a self addressed stamped envelope is enclosed with your payment.

A guilty plea will be considered a conviction and recorded as such on your criminal/or driving record. You may be subject to a State surcharge.

Texas Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act

Nolo Contendere - No Contest

A plea of nolo contendere, also known as no contest, simply means that you do not wish to contest the State's charge against you. Nolo Contendere has the same legal effect as a guilty plea.

Click here for plea form.

If you wish to plead nolo contendere (no contest), you may be eligible for Deferred Disposition/Probation or a Driving Safety Course to keep an offense off your driving record. You will be responsible for the fees and costs applicable. IF ELIGIBLE you must mark the nolo contendere plea option associated with your choice and sign the citation. It should then be mailed or delivered to the Court along with appropriate amount owed if applicable.

Not Guilty

A plea of not guilty means that you are informing the Court that you deny guilt and that the State must prove its charges against you. If you plead not guilty your case will be scheduled for the next available pre-trial hearing. You will need to decide whether you want a bench trial (trial by Judge) or a trial by jury (6 members of your peers). See Trials ] You will also need to decide whether to retain ad attorney to represent you at trial. Only you or a licensed attorney may defend a case in court. The Court does not appoint attorneys or lawyers.

Click here for plea form.

A plea of not guilty must be made in writing or in person and submitted to the Court prior to the expiration of the 22-day period.