Respond To A Citation

You received a citation...Now What?

When you receive a citation, you have fifteen (15) business days to respond. The law requires you to make an appearance in your case, but there are different ways to do that, and different rules for adults and juveniles. There are various ways to answer and dispose of any violations against you. For more information, see your options below.

Unless you are entitled to a compliance dismissal, you must enter one of the following three pleas:

Plea of Not Guilty

  • A plea of “not guilty” means that you deny guilt and require the State to prove the charge. 
  • A plea of “not guilty” does not waive any of your rights to trial.
  • A plea of “not guilty” does not prevent a plea of “guilty” or “no contest” at a later time.

Plea of Guilty

  • A plea of “guilty” means you admit that you committed the criminal offense charged.

Plea of Nolo Contendere (No Contest)

  • A plea of “no contest” means that you do not contest the State’s charge against you.

The difference between a plea of “guilty” and ‘”no contest” is that the “no contest” plea may not be used later against you in a civil suit for damages. For example, in a civil suit arising from a traffic accident, a guilty plea can be used as evidence of your responsibility or fault.

If you plead “guilty” or “no contest,” you will be found guilty and should be prepared to pay the fine. A plea of “guilty” or “no contest” waives all of your rights to trial. If you are unable to pay the entire fine and costs, you should be prepared to document and explain your financial situation.

Submit a Request

Request Types

If you are wanting to submit a request, please choose one of the options below. If you are needing to ask a question, fill out the form by clicking the Ask a Question button below.

Ask a Question Online

  1. If you are needing to ask a question, proceed to the next section below.

  2. Electronic Signature Agreement *

    By checking the "I agree" box below, you agree and acknowledge that 1) the information you supplied is true and correct, 2) your request will not be signed in the sense of a traditional paper document, 3) by signing in this alternate manner, you authorize your electronic signature to be valid and binding upon you to the same force and effect as a handwritten signature, and 4) you may still be required to provide a traditional signature at a later date.

  3. Leave This Blank:

  4. This field is not part of the form submission.