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General Advice for Appearing in Court

  • Always show up to court on time, even if you know you won’t be able to pay a fine.  
    • If you absolutely cannot show up on the date that is given to you on your ticket, call the court as early as possible to ask them to reschedule. You may need to ask for a different date in writing. Often the court has a form you can fill out, which the clerk will give you.
    • Don’t avoid court because you can’t pay. This will usually lead to a warrant for your arrest, meaning the police can book you into jail at any time, as well as a hold that will prevent you from renewing your driver’s license until your case is resolved. Instead, read further for what to do in court when you cannot pay.
  • Keep good records, and bring them with you to court.
    • Keep track of each time you call or write to the clerk or judge and each time you appear in court by writing it down.
    • Keep all original papers given to you by the police, the prosecutor, and the court.
    • Keep any evidence that may prove your innocence (like photos or someone’s testimony) or that may prove you are not able to pay the fine (like a check stub showing you receive unemployment benefits).
  • Speak respectfully to the clerk, the judge and the prosecutor.
    • Address the judge as “Your Honor” or “Judge [Name].”
    • Try to remain calm and polite even if you are frustrated.
  • Dress nicely when appearing in court, like you would if working in an office or attending church or a religious service.
    • Many courts have specific dress codes, such as no shorts, no tank tops, no flip flops, no hats. Check the court’s website or call beforehand if you’re unsure if what you’re wearing is appropriate.
  • Be sure to turn off your cell phone in the courtroom. 
  • Allow for several hours of waiting time to see the judge when arranging time off work and childcare.
  • If you do not speak English or feel more confident communicating in your native language, inform the clerk when you arrive that you need a translator AND inform the judge as soon as your case is called.
    • In a rural area, you might also consider bringing someone who can translate if you are confident in their ability to accurately translate what is said. While you have a right to a translator appointed by the court, in smaller counties and for languages not commonly spoken in a county, it may require the court to locate an interpreter, which can require you coming back to court at a later date.