Fine & Court Costs

Fines and Court Costs

When you are assessed a fine in municipal court, the amount is determined based on the facts and circumstances of your case. There are factors that can impact the fine:

Maximum Fines

Here are the maximum fines for common violations:

•    Most Municipal Court Traffic Violations: $200

•    Municipal Court Penal Violations: $500

•    Ordinance Violations: $2,000

Court Costs

In addition to fines, court costs mandated by state law will be charged. The amount of court costs depends on the offense. To determine the specific costs for your violation, you will need to check with the court. Here are a few scenarios when court costs are assessed:

•    If you are found guilty at trial.

•    If you plead guilty or no contest (nolo contendere).

•    If your case is deferred for a driving safety course.

•    If your case is deferred and you are placed on probation.

Additionally, if a warrant was served or processed by a peace officer, an extra $50 fee will be added to your total charges.

If you are found not guilty, no court costs will be assessed.

New Trial

If you are found guilty, you have the right to request a new trial. To do this, you must file an oral or written motion within one day after the judgment of guilt is rendered. The judge has the discretion to grant a new trial if it is determined that justice has not been properly served in the original trial.

•    Limitation: Only one new trial may be granted for each offense.

Appeal

If you are found guilty and are not satisfied with the judgment, you have the right to appeal the decision. To begin the appeal process:

1.    You must file an appeal bond within 10 days of the judgment.

2.    The appeal bond must be twice the amount of the fine and court costs.

This bond guarantees that the appellant (you) will pay the fines and costs if the appeal is unsuccessful.