Request A Trial Or Hearing
- If you plead "Not Guilty" and have a trial,
you will lose the right to take the Driving Safety Course.
- You may be represented by an attorney, or you may represent
yourself on your own case at your trial or hearing. If
you decide to have an attorney represent you, you must
notify
the court, in writing, at least 10 days prior to your
hearing. You cannot be represented by someone who is not
licensed
as an attorney.
CRIMINAL TRAFFIC TRIAL
- The state is represented by a prosecutor who must prove
the charges against you, as stated on the complaint.
The state presents its case first by calling witnesses
to testify
against you. You will be allowed to hear all the testimony
against you. After each witness has
testified, you will have an opportunity to ask questions
of the witness if you wish.
- After the state has presented its case, you may present
your case. You may call other witnesses who know something about the incident, to testify for
you. You may testify
on
your own behalf, but you are not required to do so. If
you do not testify, your silence cannot be used
against you. If you do testify, the prosecutor will have
an opportunity to cross-examine you.
SENTENCING
If you are found "Guilty", the Judge will state
your penalty. This penalty may be different from the amount
listed on the Fine Schedule given to you by the Police Officer.
APPEALS
You have the right to appeal a final disposition/judgment
of the Stafford Municipal Court. You must submit an appeal
bond in the amount of twice the fine and costs within ten
calendar days of the date of judgment. If the bond is approved,
the case is transferred to the Fort Bend County Court for
a trial de novo (new trial).
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