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VEHICLE & TRAFFIC TICKETS

When do I have to appear in court?

  • Felonies, Misdemeanors or other Penal Law Violation – you must report to court on the date noticed by the arresting officer or the Erie County Holding Center.
  • Traffic Infractions – The ‘return by date’ on the ticket is not a court date, it is the date by which your plea must be entered. A plea should be entered on the ticket where indicated and returned to the court by mail or in person before or on the date stated on the ticket. To enter a plea, complete Part A for Guilty or Part B for Not Guilty. Your current mailing address is required.

What happens if I plead guilty?

  • A guilty plea may result in fines and/or surcharges being assessed. A letter notifying you of the Court’s decision will be mailed to the mailing address you provide.

What happens if I plead not guilty?

  •     You will be notified of your court date and time by letter within 2 weeks of receipt of your plea.
  •     You are required to pay all fines and surcharges on your court date unless you are scheduled for driving school. If you are unable to pay the full amount of your fine or surcharge that evening, you may request a brief extension of time.
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