What are my options when I've been charged with a traffic or criminal offense?

You have 3 options once you have been charged with a traffic or criminal offense:

1. You may plead “not guilty” – this sets the matter for trial. This plea must be made to the Municipal Court Judge.
2. You may plead “guilty” – sentence will be imposed either in the form of a fine, jail or both. The fine and/or jail is set by statute. This plea must be made to the Municipal Court Judge.
3. You may qualify for a deferred prosecution agreement on traffic offenses. This is an informal probation agreement you may enter into with the prosecutor where trial is deferred for the term of the agreement. This is not a guilty plea and the charge will not affect your permanent driving record should you comply with all terms of the agreement. A fee is required for this agreement, which is usually equal to, but may be greater than, the standard fine amount. You may inquire as to whether you qualify for a deferred prosecution agreement by coming into the City Prosecutor’s Office in Room 101 of the Civic Center. An appointment with the City Prosecutor is not necessary. Legal staff in the office will assist you. There is no guarantee that a deferred prosecution agreement will be offered. All fees must be paid in full at the time the agreement is executed.  City Prosecutor's Office can only accept cash, check or money order.

If you need to speak to a City Prosecutor regarding your charges, you may contact the City Prosecutor during open at the following times:

• Monday - Check in time is 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, Thursday & Friday – Check in time is 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.