What happens at my initial appearance?

When you arrive at Court, please print your name on the "sign-up" sheet located at the court clerk's window. All names are called according to the order listed on the sign-up sheet. When your name is called, you should approach the bench. The Judge will ask you to enter a plea of not guilty, no contest, or guilty.

If you enter a not guilty plea, the next stage of the legal process is a Pre-Trial Conference with the City Attorney which will be held that day for juveniles or at a later date for adults. If you wish to enter a not guilty plea without appearing in Court for your initial appearance, you must enter your not guilty plea in writing to the Court prior to the scheduled date. If you enter a not guilty plea (PDF) in writing, please provide your name, current mailing address, current telephone number, and the citation number.

If you plead either no contest or guilty, the Judge will find you guilty and impose a sentence. Usually, the sentence will be imposed the same night as the initial appearance.

Show All Answers

1. What happens at my initial appearance?
2. What if I don’t appear for my initial appearance?
3. If I can’t make it to my court date, can I get a continuance?
4. What plea should I enter?
5. I missed my Court date and really wanted to appear. What now?
6. How can I pay my citation?
7. I didn't pay my fines and now I'm suspended. How do I get my license back?
8. Can I do community service to take care of my fines?
9. What will happen if I don’t pay my fine/forfeiture?
10. What if I can’t pay the forfeiture by the due date?
11. What if I have a probationary license?
12. How long will this traffic charge remain on my record?
13. How can I get my points reduced? Is there any schooling?
14. How long do I have to appeal the Judge’s decision?