Entering a Plea
Only the person whose name appears on the citation (other than a licensed attorney) can enter a plea. You may plead either
- Not Guilty: When you enter this plea, you are stating to the court that you believe you are innocent of the charge and you wish to have your case placed on the trial docket. You will have a jury trial scheduled unless you waive that right and request a trial before the judge. Judges may not dismiss tickets. In certain circumstances when a dismissal is authorized by law, the judge may dismiss your ticket (see "Citation Dismissal"). If you believe you are not guilty, you should enter that plea and set your case for trial.
- Guilty: Entering this plea means that you are admitting to the offense as charged. You will be required to pay the applicable fine plus all court costs. In certain circumstances, you may qualify for "Deferred Disposition" or Defensive Driving" to help keep the offense of off your record.
- Nolo Contendre (or No Contest): This plea means that you are "not contesting" the offense. You are not admitting that you committed the offense nor are you denying it either. However, you understand that you will still be responsible for paying the applicable fine plus all court costs. In certain circumstances, you may qualify for "Deferred Disposition" or Defensive Driving" to help keep the offense off of your record.