Q: do i have to go to court if i pay for my ticket monthly
my court date is oct 30th the cop says i don’t have to go if pay the ticket full but want to make monthly payments instead
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A: In California, if you decide to pay your traffic ticket (essentially admitting guilt or no contest), it's generally not necessary to appear in court, unless the ticket specifies otherwise. However, if you wish to make monthly payments, you usually need to request a payment plan, which can often be arranged without a court appearance but may require approval. It's important to contact the court before your court date to determine if your appearance is mandatory and to inquire about arranging a payment plan. Not all jurisdictions allow monthly payment options, but many do, especially if the fines are substantial. If you miss your court date without making arrangements or receiving confirmation about not needing to appear, you risk additional penalties, including a potential warrant for your arrest. To be on the safe side, always confirm directly with the court about any arrangements or intentions you have regarding your ticket. Keep any documentation or correspondence as evidence of agreements or payment plans.
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