FAQ's
1. What Happens on Your Day in Court?
It is very important that you arrive in court on the day and time stated on your ticket, summons, subpoena or court notice. You must check in with the Court bailiff when you arrive. If you arrive late, or if your name is not called, you should notify court personnel immediately. You may also wish to check the court calendar posted at the entrance to the courtroom to see if your matter is listed.
All electronic devices must be TURNED OFF. Electronic devices may not be turned on and set to vibrate. Any person using an electronic device will have it confiscated during court proceedings.
At the beginning of the court session, the Judge will give an opening statement explaining court procedures, Defendants' rights and penalties. The Judge or bailiff will then call each Defendant individually and ask them to admit, deny or plead no contest to charge. If the person admits or pleads no contest, the Judge will listen to their explanation and enter the appropriate fine and Court costs. If the Defendant denies the allegations, the Court will not hear any explanation at that time but will set the case for a contested trial where all parties have the opportunity to be present and be heard.
At a trial, each side has the opportunity to present evidence by the testimony of witnesses and presentation of documents, photographs and diagrams. Each side has the opportunity to ask questions of the opposing witnesses. Once the Judge has heard the testimony, he or she will decide if the Defendant has committed the violation, has not committed the violation, or if the case should be dismissed. If the Defendant is found to have committed the violation, the Judge will impose the appropriate fine and costs. If the Judge finds that the Defendant did not commit the violation or that the case should be dismissed, no judgment is entered against the Defendant and no fine or costs of any kind are imposed.
All Town Court proceedings are tape recorded. Please remain quiet. The length of time you will be in court depends on many things. Some cases take longer than others. So, please be patient.
2. How do I check on the status of my case?
3. Is there an after hours drop box for ticket payments?
Not at this time.
4. When is my payment due?
Your court date is at the bottom of your ticket. If you are not required to attend your court date, and if you do not wish to appear in Court, you must pay your ticket before your court date. No payment will be accepted until 7 days have passed since the ticket was written to ensure the Court has processed the case.
5. Do I have to come to court?
6. What is the penalty for missing a court date and not paying?
There is a $25 late fee for all tickets (except No Seatbelt tickets) not paid by the date assigned by the court, and any unpaid fines and court costs will be sent to an outside collection agency for action. Further, if you Fail to Pay your ticket on or before your court date or Fail to Appear at your court date, the Town Court will notify the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to suspend your driver's license. The BMV will mail a notice of suspension to the last address you provided to the BMV on your drivers liceanse.
7. Will points be put on my driving record?/How many points am I allowed?
8. How can I see/obtain a copy of my driving record?
9. What are the town holidays when the Court and Court Office are closed?
10. What are the costs for seatbelt violations?
Seatbelt violations do not carry court costs, only a $25 fine. If the court finds in favor of a defendant after a trial, no fine or costs of any type are imposed. If you wish to contest the charge, your case will be transferred to Hamilton County Superior Court after your initial appearance in Fishers Town Court.
