CITY OF CRANE MUNICIPAL COURT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is there a way to pay a ticket without appearing in court?

Some tickets can be paid prior to your court date. If your offense is not listed on the Fine Schedule, contact the court clerk for further information.

What is an arraignment?

After receiving a ticket, the defendant is given a date and time to appear before the judge. The defendant must plead guilty or not guilty during the proceeding.

What if I don’t want my traffic violation on my driver’s record?

You may hire a lawyer to represent you and he/she can work with the prosecutor, who may amend your charge. If you choose not to hire a lawyer, you must attend court on the date that was assigned and ask to speak with the prosecutor.

What if I need to change my court date?

The judge will allow one continuance; you will need to contact the court clerk to do this. A second continuance, will need approval from the judge.

What if I do not appear for my arraignment or trial?

A warrant may be issued for your arrest.

What if I do not believe I violated any laws?

You may plead “not guilty” and a trial date will be set to appear in court.

What if I want to plead guilty?

You can plead “guilty” and the judge will assess a penalty based on the offense and within accordance of the law.

If a defendant is found “guilty” of a moving violation, the Department of Revenue will determine if any points will be assessed.

What if I cannot afford to pay my fine(s) in total at the time of my court date?

You must come to court, after your plea and fines are assessed, you may talk to the judge about a payment plan with the court.

If the agreed terms to a payment plan are not honored, you may receive a summons to return to court for a payment review hearing.

If you still have questions, please contact the Crane Court Clerk, 417-723-5766 extension 104.