How to Fight a Traffic Ticket in Houston
Traffic tickets in Houston, Texas are handled by the city's municipal courts. While most people who receive a ticket choose to pay the fine or take any required driving courses, you may choose to fight your ticket by stating you are not guilty and complete a trial to determine your innocence. If you are deemed not guilty, you will not be responsible for the traffic ticket, though if you are convicted you must pay all associated fees and may not request a safe driving course to have your case dismissed.
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Instructions
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Decide which type of trial you prefer. Houston allows you to select a jury trial, where a jury listens to the arguments and decides if you are at fault, or a judge trial, where a judge makes the decision. If you have hired a lawyer, ask your lawyer's advice before making your decision.
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Complete the Plea of Not Guilty form. The form requests information on the trial type you have selected, your traffic citation number, a description of the incident and personal information. You may hand deliver the form to one of the Houston Municipal Court offices or mail the form to the
City of Houston Municipal Courts. The form must be completed and submitted to the court before your initial arraignment date to avoid a warrant for failing to resolve court business.
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Receive your court date. After your plea has been processed, you will receive a time, date and location for your trial. Prepare for your trial by talking to your lawyer, if you have chosen to hire one.
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Attend the trial. Ensure that you are dressed professionally and have a clean appearance. When asked, explain why you feel you should not have been issued a ticket clearly and calmly and answer any other questions that are asked of you. If you have hired an attorney, allow your attorney to help you in court. At the end of the trial, the judge or jury will decide if you have been found not guilty or if you meet the requirements of your citation.
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Tips & Warnings
The City of Houston's Municipal Courts website notes that shorts, hats, tank tops and offensive or provocative clothing should not be worn to court.
References
- Photo Credit Justice image by MVit from Fotolia.com
