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1. What are my rights?

You have a right to enter a plea of guilty, nolo contendere (no contest), or not guilty to each offense charged; the right to consult an attorney; and the right to a jury or nonjury trial. If you plead not guilty, you will need to decide whether to employ an attorney to represent you. You may defend yourself, but no one else (except a lawyer) may represent you. For more information, please contact the Municipal Court at 972-557-60570.

2. How can I plead?

A plea must be made in person or by mail. By a plea of guilty, you admit that the act is prohibited by law, that you committed the act charged, and that you have no defense or excuse for your act. A plea of nolo contendere (no contest) means that you do not contest the state’s charge against you. While it is not an admission by you that you are guilty, you will almost certainly be found guilty. A plea of guilty or no contest, and a finding of guilt, will result in a conviction on your record. However, a plea of no contest cannot be used against you in a subsequent civil suit for damages. A plea of not guilty means that you are informing the court that you deny guilt or that you have a good defense, and that the state must prove what is charged against you. For more information, please contact the Municipal Court at 972-557-60570.

3. What if I am a juvenile?

Juveniles must appear in person before the judge, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Juveniles do not have to take action on a citation within 20 days. Notice of their court date and time will be mailed by the clerk to the address shown on the citation. For more information, please contact the Municipal Court at 972-557-60570.

4. What day is court held?

Court is held every Thursday except for the Thursday that falls on the fifth week of the month. For more information, please contact the Municipal Court at 972-557-60570.