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Municipal Court

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1. What is an arraignment?

When the defendant appears in front of the Judge to be read charges against him/her and for the defendant to plead.

2. What can you plead at an arraignment?

• Not Guilty
  
• No Contest
  
• Guilty

3. How long does a court session usually last?

A court session usually lasts one or two hours.

4. In what order do I appear in front of the Judge for an arraignment?

For most matters, you appear in front of the Judge in the order that you signed in.

5. What days/times are traffic court?

• Mondays - sessions begin at 8:30 am, 10:00 am & 2:00 pm
  
• Most Fridays at 8:30 am & 10:00 am
  
• You are required to call (505) 955-5070 to schedule appearance
  
• Arrive earlier than your scheduled time; it is first-come, first-serve to see the Judge

6. What will happen if I fail to appear, fail to comply with court orders, or fail to pay fines?

The Judge will issue a bench warrant for your arrest, suspend your license, or both.

7. What do I do if my license is suspended?

Contact the Motor Vehicle Division at (505) 827-4636. Request a printout of your record and pay all oustanding fines.

8. How many points is the offense cited worth on my driver’s license?

Contact the Motor Vehicle Division at (505) 827-4636, also view our. Traffic Sentencing Guide

9. If I have a bench warrant and go to Court, will I be arrested?

The Judge will make the decision based on your case.

10. How do I find out the status of my bond money?

Call the Municipal Court accountant (505) 955-5054 and provide the defendant’s name, date of birth and/or case number.

11. Can I complete community service other than what was listed on the printout provided by the court?

Most non-profit organizations qualify as community service, however, you should always contact the Court for verification and approval at (505) 955-5134.

12. What is unsupervised probation?

If you are given a sentence of unsupervised probation you do not have to report to a Probation Officer, however you are still required to comply with all court-ordered conditions and have no further violations.

13. How can I reschedule my court date?

Call (505) 955-5070 to schedule a date / time, and provide your name and date of birth.

14. How can I find out when the date of my trial is?

Call the Municipal Court office at (505) 955-5070 and provide either the name and date of birth of the defendant, name of witness/victim, or the type of case.

15. How can I request for my records to be released?

• In person – fill out records request form and provide name, date of birth, Social Security Number, and what kind of request is needed.
  
• Fax – (505) 955-5125 provide name, date of birth, Social Security Number and what kind of request is needed.