What to Do if You Receive a Citation in the City of Prairie View
Every person accused of a crime in Texas is granted a right by the Texas Constitution to have a trial by judge or a trial by a jury of his/her peers. An individual may exercise his/her right to a trial by entering a plea of Not Guilty and requesting such trial. However, an individual may waive his/her right to a trial by entering a plea of nolo contendere (no contest) or guilty and disposing of the citation by paying it or by entering into an Alternative Resolution agreement with the Court.
Appearance:
If you have received a citation of any nature within the City of Prairie View, regardless of your plea, you must make an appearance, either in person, by mail, or through an attorney. Failure to make an appearance will result in a charge of “Failure to Appear” or “Violation of Promise to Appear” being filed against you. In addition, your failure to appear my result in an arrest warrant being issued for you and it may affect your ability to renew your driver’s license. (Appearance Form)
You are required to enter a Plea for every violation in which you are charged. Possible pleas are:
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Nolo Contendere (No Contest): This means that you do not contest the charges filed against you and you are waiving your right to a trial by judge or jury
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Guilty: This means that you admit that you committed the act that you are charged with, and you are waiving your right to a trial by judge and a trial by jury.
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Not Guilty: This means that you deny the charges that have been filed against you, and you request a trial by judge or a trial by jury.
If you are under 17 years of age you must appear before a judge with your parent or guardian.
If upon conviction of an offense, you are unable to pay, there may be alternatives to full payment of the fine or costs imposed in this case.