Pleas & Appeals

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. On a plea of not guilty a trial is held either by judge or jury. The defendant has the right to choose whether he/she wants a trial by judge or jury. The defendant's choice must be made in writing, and may be made on a plea form which is available in this court. The state has the burden of proof in each case and must prove the guilt of the defendant beyond a "reasonable doubt" before a defendant can be found guilty by a judge or jury.

Plea of Guilty
By entering a plea of guilty you admit you committed the act with which you were charged a plea of guilty may be used against you in a civil suit, if you were involved in a traffic accident.

Plea of Nolo Contendere (No contest)
By entering a plea of no contest it means that you do not contest the state's charge against you. You will be found guilty and a conviction may appear on your driving record unless you qualify and successfully complete a defensive driving course or deferred disposition (probation).

Plea of Not Guilty
A plea of not guilty means that you are informing the court that you deny guilt in the case for which you are charged. The state must then prove it's case filed against you. You have the right to hire an attorney to represent you.

Appeals
If you are found guilty you may request to appeal your case. You will need to file a cash bond or surety appeal bond with the court within 10 days of the date of the judgment. Appeal bond forms can be obtained from the court by request.