Plea by Affidavit

The court may permit a defendant to present a defense or statement in mitigation of penalty by mail if the court deems it would be a hardship for the defendant to appear in court. This rule applies to all traffic cases except those involving indictable offenses, accidents resulting in personal injury, operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or a narcotic or habit-producing drug or permitting another person who is under the influence to operate a motor vehicle owned by the defendant or in the defendant's custody or control, reckless driving or leaving the scene of an accident.

Pleading by Mail

In order to file a plea by mail, you must:

1. Consult with Court staff to obtain approval to forward defense by mail.
2. Complete the Plea By Mail Form according to the instructions provided and return to the court.
3. The prosecution will present its testimony in the usual manner and the judge will read the contents of the affidavit in open court.
4. The judge will render a ruling in the case and the Clerk's office will send notification of the disposition by ordinary mail.
5. If sentence is imposed, you will be directed to comply with the sentence imposed within 10 days, unless otherwise ordered by the Judge.