Traffic Ticket Advice 

"What does the date of the ticket mean?"

Essentially, each town treats the date listed on the traffic ticket or summons differently.  Most towns use the date on the front of the ticket as a deadline date for the Defendant to either plead "not guilty" or retain an attorney who will send the representation letter indicating that they represent a Defendant and the Defendant is pleading "not guilty."

Nevertheless, there are some towns that actually require a court appearance on the date indicated on the traffic summons.  Therefore, although it is unlikely that you will have to go to court on the date listed on the summons, it is extremely important that, once you get a traffic ticket, you contact the Municipal Court at the address and/or phone number listed on the back of the ticket and provide them with your name and the summons number, as well as your intention to plead "not guilty".  More importantly, it is critical that you asked them whether an appearance is required on the date set forth on the ticket.

As you all know, things are always better done in writing, and therefore, it is also recommended that anytime after you speak to anybody at the court clerk's office, you immediately follow-up with a quick letter in writing which you should fax over to the court confirming your conversation with whomever you spoke to and confirming that you have pled "not guilty" to the offense.  Also, make sure you confirm that your appearance shall not be necessary on the date indicated on the ticket.

Of course, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified Municipal Court/traffic attorney, before the date on the ticket, and then that attorney can contact the court, confirm his representation in writing, and indicate in his letter representation that you are pleading "not guilty".  That way, your attorney will do everything and you will not have to worry about dealing with the court. 

**  Nothing contained herein is to be construed in any way as legal advice.  The information offered herein is merely offered for informational or educational purposes and is merely offered as an opinion. **