I received a ticket. Do I have to appear at court or can I just mail in the fine?
If your ticket or citation states you may mail in payment, follow the instructions printed on the back of your ticket. If you have any questions call the Municipal Court Clerk, 970-728-2160.
If your ticket requires a personal appearance, you must send in a written request to be allowed to plead guilty by mail. Include in your request the ticket number as well as a current address and phone number where you can be reached. Send your request to: Town Attorney, Prosecution Division, P.O. Box 397, Telluride, CO 81435. When the request is received, a motion to the court will be made asking the court to allow you to plead guilty by mail and pay a fine. If the court approves the motion you will receive a document which will require your signature and payment of the fine by the date noted therein. Please note that you cannot plea bargain by mail. You may only plead guilty. If you want to try to plea bargain your case, you must appear in Court or contact a private attorney to appear in your absence.
Can I speak with a Prosecuting Attorney before I come to Court?
If you are a defendant with a ticket or citation, it is necessary to wait for the arraignment date written on the ticket to speak with the Prosecuting Attorney. When you appear in court, the Judge will advise you of your legal rights. You will then have an opportunity to speak with the Prosecuting Attorney regarding your case.
What is an Arraignment?
This is the first court appearance for any traffic or other municipal code violation. At this hearing, you will be advised of your rights and given the opportunity to discuss your case with the Prosecuting Attorney. After meeting with the Prosecuting Attorney, you will return before the Municipal Court Judge and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty to the charge or the amended charge if one has been offered. If you enter a guilty plea, you will be assessed court fees and fines, pay for any damages caused by your actions, and your case will be concluded. If you enter a not guilty plea, you will be assigned another court date for a trial of your case.
What is a disposition?
A disposition, also referred to as a "dispo," is the final resolution of a case. It may include an agreed upon plea and sentence negotiated between the Prosecuting Attorney and a defendant. The Municipal Court Judge must approve all dispositions in open court. A disposition date is set by the Municipal Court Clerk and can only be changed by the court.
I missed my court date. What do I do now?
Please call the Court Clerk at (970)728-2160.
Last updated: 4/27/2009 12:25:10 PM