Understanding Your Options

Handling of Adult Cases (for those 17 years old or older):

Straight Payment:
Payment received by the court without any additional documentation is recorded as a plea of “no contest” and waiver of trial by judge or jury, and a conviction is entered and the conviction is reported to DPS.
Note: if you want to pay but do not have the money for the entire amount at this time, contact the court to see if you are eligible for other arrangements.

Compliance Dismissal:
There are certain violations that may be dismissed.  By providing proof to the court of compliance within 20 working days  of the date cited or the appearance date on your citation and pay an administrative fee of up to $20. 

Keeping the Violation Off Your Record:

If you plea nolo contendere (no contest), you may be eligible for Deferred Disposition/Probation or a Driving Safety Course to keep the offense off of your driving or criminal record.  You will be responsible for the fees and costs applicable.  If eligible you may make this request in person at the Clerks' Office, by mail or through the Courts' Online Payment System.  

Trial:
Enter a written plea of “not guilty” along with your signature. The case will be set on a pre-trial docket prior to the matter being heard by a judge or jury. 

Handling of Juvenile Cases (16 years old or younger)

You must appear in court with your parent(s) or guardian(s).  A court docket notice will be mailed to the address on your citation. If the address on your citation is incorrect, please provide your new address in writing.

A child and parent required to appear before the court have an obligation to provide the court in writing with the current address and residence of the child.  The obligation does not end when the child reaches age 17.  On or before the seventh day after the date the child or parent changes residence, the child or parent shall notify the court of the current address in the manner directed by the court.  A violation of this subsection may result in arrest and is a Class C misdemeanor.  The obligation to provide notice terminates on discharge and satisfaction of the judgment or final disposition not requiring a find of guilt.  Texas Code of Criminal Procedures Article 45.057(h)