Marion County Traffic Court

Table of Contents

If you find yourself facing a traffic violation in Indianapolis, Indiana, the Marion County Traffic Court is the place to address your concerns. Understanding how this court operates and the resources available to you can be crucial when dealing with traffic-related issues. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the Marion County Traffic Court, its services, and the online resources that can help you navigate the legal process effectively.

Getting Acquainted with Marion County Traffic Court

Location and Contact Information

Address: 8115 E. Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219
Phone: 317-327-7995

Website
Directions

Alternative Contact

Sometimes reaching the court via telephone might be challenging. In such cases, you can use the following email address:

Email: [email protected]

Some of the most common traffic violations seen in Marion County Traffic Court include:

Speeding

Exceeding posted speed limits is one of the most prevalent traffic offenses. Fines start around $150 for driving 1-10 mph over and increase from there. Higher speeds can lead to reckless driving charges.

Careless Driving

Careless driving is a broader offense for operating a vehicle in a dangerous or negligent manner. It may involve speeding, tailgating, erratic lane changes or other unsafe behaviors.

DUI

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries severe consequences. Jail time, license suspension, fines and ignition interlock devices are possible penalties.

The repercussions for traffic violations depend on the offense and your driving record. Here are some potential consequences:

Fines

Fines are a common penalty, ranging from $100 for minor violations up to thousands for excessive speeding or DUIs. Judges consider your income and driving history when setting amounts.

License Suspension

Serious offenses like reckless driving or DUI often result in suspended licenses. Lengths range from 30 days to a year. Restricted licenses may be available for work commutes.

Jail Time

DUIs, excessive speeding or repeated offenses can lead to jail sentences ranging from a few days up to a year. Fines, probation and counseling are also likely.

Receiving a Citation

You’ll be issued a ticket at the traffic stop, stating your violation, court date, and fine amount. Signing is not an admission of guilt, just confirmation of receiving the citation.

Your Court Date

This is listed on your ticket. You can request a new date if necessary. Missing court leads to an automatic conviction.

Arriving at Court

Get there early to pass through security. Turn off phones and remove hats. Locate your case on the docket. The prosecuting attorney may speak with you about a plea deal before court starts.

Seeing the Judge

When your case is called, approach the bench. Judges expect courtesy—address them as “your honor.” Calmly state your plea when asked.

Entering a Plea

Plea options include guilty, not guilty or no contest. Guilty means admitting fault. No contest accepts punishment without admitting guilt. Not guilty demands a hearing.

Paying Fines

If pleading guilty or no contest, fines are typically due that day. You may ask the judge for an extension. They accept cash, checks or credit cards.

You have options if you wish to contest a traffic ticket:

Hiring an Attorney

Traffic attorneys can represent you in court, working to reduce fines or dismiss charges. Their fees often offset potential savings.

Requesting a Hearing

Plead not guilty to schedule a court hearing where you can argue your case. Submit evidence and call witnesses. The officer who issued the citation must prove it was warranted.

Presenting Your Case

Thoroughly prepare your defense focused on factual evidence. Highlight any inconsistencies or questions about procedures. Respectfully make your argument to the judge or traffic magistrate.

For some first-time traffic offenses, completing driving school may help:

Eligibility

Judges allow driving school for minor violations like speeding tickets. Check if your offense qualifies. You must request this option at your court date.

Enrolling

Ask the court for a list of approved schools. Choose one with flexible scheduling. Enroll within 30 days and finish within 90 days of your court date.

Completing the Course

Attending in-person or online, you’ll review traffic laws and safe driving techniques. When finished, the school notifies the court and no points will be on your record.

Marion County offers specialty courts tailored to veterans and those with mental health conditions. These courts seek alternatives to fines or jail time for eligible defendants.

Veterans Court

Veterans Court connects former service members facing non-violent charges to rehabilitation resources. Treatment plans are customized for PTSD, addiction and other issues stemming from military service.

Mental Health Court

Participants must have a clinical diagnosis. The court oversees a treatment plan focused on counseling, medication management, housing assistance and other needs. Charges may be dismissed for those who complete the program.

For serious or repeat offenses, judges may order probation with strict supervision:

Terms

Probation terms are case-specific but commonly include regular meetings with a probation officer, counseling, community service and avoiding further legal issues.

marion county traffic court Online Resources

Marion County Traffic Court provides a range of online resources that can be beneficial to anyone dealing with traffic-related legal matters. Additionally, these resources are often applicable to courts throughout Marion County and the state of Indiana.

Search Court Case Records

If you need information about court cases, Marion County provides access to both active and archival court records. This includes details about the types of records available and where to find them. The site also offers instructions on locating active civil and criminal records in specific courtrooms.

Indiana Case Information

For those looking for basic case information across Indiana, this resource is invaluable. It covers Circuit and Superior Courts in most Indiana counties, as well as some City and Town Courts. You can search by party name, case ID, and county, and advanced search options are available through a subscription service.

Indiana Court Case Records

Access to Indiana’s criminal, citation, civil, family, and probate cases is just a click away. This resource encompasses most county Circuit and Superior Courts, St. Joseph County Probate Court, Marion County Small Claims Courts, and some courts that have been abolished.

Indiana Limited Criminal Records

The Indiana State Police offer a limited criminal history online search service, focusing on felonies and Class A misdemeanors. It can be accessed through a subscription or per-search fee.

Indiana Protective Orders

If you require information on protective and no-contact orders filed since July 1, 2009, you can search by name or case number. Additional search options include year of birth, race, county issued, and city of residence. Links to forms and instructions for obtaining orders are also provided.

Dockets, Calendars, and Other Information

You can view daily and weekly calendars for Circuit and Superior Courts in most Indiana Counties, along with some City and Town Courts. The website provides easy navigation to specific court calendars.

Published Opinions and Orders

For legal research, you can search the Indiana University database of Indiana Attorney General opinions from 1933 – 1976. Additionally, you can view recent Indiana Attorney General legal opinions from 2001 to the present.

marion county traffic court Forms and Related Information

Access to court forms is essential for many legal matters. Marion County provides forms for use in civil cases in Circuit and Superior Courts. It also offers resources for child support forms and other relevant forms used in Indiana courts.

Online Fine Payments

Convenience is key, especially when it comes to paying fines. Marion County allows you to pay traffic tickets and parking tickets online. You can even contest your parking citation before an administrative body through an online form.

Self-Help, Legal Research, General Information

If you’re looking for self-help resources or general legal information, Marion County has you covered. From traffic ticket diversion programs to information about civil case filings, you’ll find a wealth of resources here.

Marion County Mediation Presentation

Mediation can be an alternative dispute resolution method. Marion County offers a presentation on mediation, providing valuable insights into this process.

Marion County Pro Se Divorce Filing Information

Filing for divorce in Marion County without an attorney is possible. This resource offers information on how to go about it.

Marion County Prosecutor’s Office Information, Services, and Programs

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office offers a range of services, including protective orders, witness testimony, services for crime victims, record sealing and expungement, conflict resolution, child support, and the Safe Driver Deferral Program. This program may even lead to dismissed tickets for some traffic offenders.

Violation Consequences

Violating probation terms can lead to fees, extended probation or jail time. New offenses usually result in probation revocation and imposition of the original sentence.

Here are tips to avoid future traffic violations:

Drive Defensively

Watch for other drivers making errors or unsafe moves. Have an escape route in mind as issues arise. Give yourself ample stopping distance.

Know Traffic Laws

Be aware of speed limits, signs, signals and laws for right-of-way, passing and turn-lane usage. Running a red light can warrant a ticket, even making a right on red without full stopping.

Limit Distractions

Avoid phone use, eating, complex music or navigation systems. Stay focused on driving safely as your top priority. Pullover if needing to handle any significant distractions.

In Marion County Traffic Court, understanding the potential penalties for traffic violations allows you to make informed choices in responding to a citation. Knowing the court process helps ensure you present your case effectively. For qualifying offenses, driving school may provide an alternative to points on your record. If eligible, take advantage of specialty courts catered to veterans or mental health conditions. Going forward, focus on safe driving practices to avoid your next court date.

FAQs

What types of payments does Marion County Traffic Court accept?

They accept cash, personal checks, cashier’s checks, and all major credit cards. Debit cards may also be used if they have a Visa or Mastercard logo.

Should I speak to the prosecuting attorney at court?

Yes, speaking with them beforehand can potentially lead to a plea deal for lesser charges or fines, saving you money and avoiding harsher penalties. Be polite when discussing your case.

What happens if I miss my traffic court date?

Failing to appear leads to an automatic conviction. The judge will impose fines and suspend your license. You’ll need to contact the court to explain your absence and request a new court date.

Can I reschedule my court date?

You can submit a request to reschedule if the original date does not work for your schedule. The court may grant one continuance for a reasonable excuse. Provide advance notice and proof if possible.

Is traffic school available for serious offenses like reckless driving?

No, traffic school is only an option for mild offenses like speeding. More serious charges cannot be dismissed by attending driving courses. Your best recourse is a skilled traffic lawyer.

How can I contact Marion County Traffic Court?
You can reach them at 317-327-7995 or by email at [email protected].

Where can I pay my traffic tickets online?
You can pay Marion County traffic tickets online through their website.

Can I file for divorce in Marion County without an attorney?
Yes, you can file for divorce in Marion County without an attorney. Refer to the Marion County Pro Se Divorce Filing Information for guidance.

What is the Safe Driver Deferral Program offered by the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office?
The Safe Driver Deferral Program allows some traffic offenders to avoid having a ticket reported on their driving record. Contact the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office for more details.