Automated Speed / Red Light Enforcement:
I was issued a citation but someone else was driving my car
If you are issued a citation for a violation in which you were not the driver, you can submit a form declaring that you were not the driver, along with a copy of your driver's license. For individuals this is called a Certificate of Innocence. For businesses this is called a Certificate of Non-Liability. Falsifying these forms may result in additional charges being filed against you.
Certificate of Innocence/Non-Liability Form
Other Traffic Citations:
Option 1: Enter a plea of no contest and pay the presumptive fine
Enter a plea of no contest and pay the court the amount of the presumptive fine written on the front of your citation. If the court accepts your plea, the court may not impose a fine that is more than the amount of the presumptive fine. The conviction will be posted to your driving record. All payments are final, and the case cannot be reopened.
Option 2: Enter a plea of no contest and submit a letter of explanation
Enter a plea of no contest and submit a letter of explanation. You must do all of the following before the day and time specified in your citation for your court appearance. If you respond by mail, the mail must arrive at the court before you are required to appear.
IMPORTANT: If you choose this option, you will make a written appearance and waive your right to a trial. A fine will be imposed, and the conviction will be posted to your driving record. The court may consider your written statement when establishing the amount of the fine. The court cannot impose a fine that is less than the minimum fine amount. The court may keep all or part of the money you pay. The court will not fine you more without giving you notice to come to the court for a hearing.
Option 3: Enter a plea of not guilty and request a trial
Enter a plea of not guilty and request a trial by submitting a written request for a trial before the day and time your citation requires you to appear in court. If you respond by mail, the mail must arrive at the court before you are required to appear.
IMPORTANT: You have a right to a trial. The court will give you notice of the time and place when you MUST appear in person, and may impose penalties if you do not. If the court finds at trial that you are guilty, the court cannot impose a fine that is less than the minimum fine amount. The court will not impose a fine if it finds you not guilty.
Option 4: Enter a plea of no contest and enter the traffic safety diversion program
Contact the court before the day and time specified in the summons to determine whether you qualify for the Traffic Safety Diversion Program. If you intend to enter the Traffic Safety Diversion Program, you must appear in person on your court appearance date. Do not submit payment prior to your appearance if you intend to enter the diversion program. If you do not qualify for this option, you must comply with one of the other options listed above.
