A citation is an order for you to appear in court at an appointed date and time. It is important that you read both sides of your citation. If the listed offense does not require your appearance in court, you may elect to pay the indicated fine and costs of court. If you elect to pay the fine, you are admitting, you are “guilty as charged.” Depending on the offense, the State can assess points to your driving record, suspend your privilege to drive, and send notice of your guilty plea to your home state (if applicable).
A traffic citation may be more than it appears. A citation may result in a criminal misdemeanor conviction. What appears as a simple citation may actually be much more. For example; reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor in N.C. Misdemeanors, if not properly handled, could result in large fines, probation, or even jail time. Of course, any traffic matter can affect your privilege to drive, not to mention a substantial increase in your insurance premiums.
Even a simple traffic citation can have a serious effect on your insurance rates and driving privileges. If you drive for a living, a simple traffic citation may cost you your job. Convictions for “what may appear petty” violations such as speeding, improper lane usage, or following too closely can have far-reaching implications, and multiple convictions may result in the loss of your license.
If you elect to fight the charges, you, or your attorney, must do so in court. In court, you will have the right to enter a plea of not responsible or not guilty. After you advise the court of your decision to contest the charge(s), the prosecuter will assign you a second court date at which time your case will be tried in front of a District Court Judge in Criminal Court.
Some citations require a mandatory court appearance. These charges are referred to as non-waivable. If any of your charges are non-waivable offenses (if your citation states you must appear in court), you will not be allowed to pay a fine by mail. Your appearance in court is mandatory, unless you are represented by an attorney licensed to practice in N.C. who will appear on your behalf.
With over 20 years of experience, SLF has the necessary skills, knowledge, resources, and support staff to protect you and your family.