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I Can't Travel Back to Where I Got My Ticket

  • As a first step, call the clerk and ask what they would advise. They may explain their procedure in such a case and you find that it works for you.
  • If that doesn’t work, write a letter to the court explaining that you do not have the ability to pay and that you do not have the ability to travel back to the jurisdiction because you lack transportation, money for gas, or for whatever reason is applicable.
    • See Documents and Forms for sample letters your can send to the court requesting various alternative sentences in a court that’s too far for you to travel to.
  • If you have not already entered a plea, you will need to enter a plea to resolve the case. You can ask to plead Guilty or No Contest in the letter if you want the judge to consider alternatives. Remember that there can be consequences of a Guilty or No Contest plea that include a driver's license suspension. (Refer back to What Happens at my First Court Appearance?) If you plead Not Guilty, a trial will need to be scheduled, which you will have to attend in person, before the judge sentences you and considers any alternatives. 
  • In the letter, ask the judge to either waive what you owe, allow you to enter a payment plan, or complete community service.  Only ask for an option that you think you will be able to complete.
  • Always ask for the court costs to be waived, even if you are asking for a payment plan or community service to resolve the fine.
  • If you request community service, ask to complete it in the city where you live, explaining that it would be impossible for you to complete in the city or county where the court is located.
    • Because the judge may not be familiar with the community service options where you live, it would be wise to suggest an option where you could complete the community service.
  • Some judges will impose an alternative sentence based on that letter and inform you of their order by sending you a letter back.
    • Alternatively, some judges will hold a hearing by phone or videoconference over the computer to further discuss the appropriate alternative sentence.