Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to come to court?
It depends. If the citation you received says "Summons" on it, then you are required to appear in court on the day written on your ticket.
If you received a penalty assessment, you do not have to appear in court as long as you pay the fine and surcharge amount before the court date on your ticket. Should you choose to contest your citation, you need to appear on the court date noted on the ticket.
What is the court process?
The first appearance is called an arraignment. The defendant is informed of the charges against them and their rights in court. Upon arrival, the defendant is asked to sign in and read/sign the Advisement of Rights form. Prior to seeing the judge, they are given the opportunity to speak with the prosecutor or their representative to discuss if any plea bargains will be offered. If a plea agreement is offered and agreed to, the defendant will appear before the judge for review and approval of such agreement. The prosecutor is not required to offer a plea agreement.
If you plead guilty, the judge may assess fines, order community service, assign attendance at a class, impose a jail sentence, or any combination of the above options.
What happens if I plead not guilty?
If a defendant chooses to plead not guilty, the judge will set a trial for a future date. You have a right to view the evidence that will be used against you at trial. If you would like a copy of the evidence, a Discovery Request must be submitted to the Court Clerk at least seven days prior to the trial. In most cases, there is no charge for Discovery. You are welcome to bring your own evidence to submit at trial as well. Review your trial rights and procedures.
At the end of the trial, the judge will decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty based on the evidence presented.
The officer mentioned a point reduction, how do I get this?
In order to qualify for point reductions, the payment must be received within twenty (20) days of the ticket being issued. Single point tickets cannot be reduced further. Two point tickets can be reduced to one point. For tickets higher than two points, two points are removed if payment is received within the twenty (20) days.
My child received a ticket, do they need me to go to court with them?
Yes! A parent or legal guardian must accompany anyone under the age of 18.
How can I change my court date?
Yes. You can fill out a date change request online form at least 24 hours before your scheduled court date. The clerk will contact you to inform you if approved and the extension details.
Requests to reschedule for a second time will need approval of the judge.
I received a ticket for not having proof of insurance. What is the process for turning in my insurance information?
A letter from your insurance company which specifically states that you were insured on the date/time and vehicle used at the time of the citation can be provided. The letter must be on official letterhead and signed by an agent or representative of the company (see Insurance Letter example). The letter can be sent to court@granbypolice.com along with the citation number.
The Court Clerk will verify if the charge is dismissed. Any other charges on the citation will still apply. If you need further information, call 970-887-2501 ext. 231.