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Municipal Court

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1. Will points be assessed against my driving record for this ticket ?

If your ticket is for a moving violation, yes it will. If it is an equipment violation, then it will not. You can contact the Missouri Department of Revenue via their website to verify this.

2. How do I avoid getting points assessed against my driver's license?

The Municipal Court does not assess points against your driver's license. That is a function of the Missouri Department of Revenue. However, you might find that following the advice of an attorney could facilitate a change in the violation charged against you. That could feasibly prevent the assessment of points.

3. Can I talk with the judge and/or prosecutor before my court date?

The judge and prosecutor are only available at court sessions.

4. Do I have to get an attorney?

This is a matter of personal choice that depends largely on the nature of the violation and your past history. For example, if your violation is a drug or alcohol-related offense, it may be in your best interest to consult with an attorney. The Municipal Court cannot and will not provide legal advice.

5. Do I need to bring money with me to court?

The judge does expect payment the night of court. If it is your first appearance and you do not have all of the fines/costs, you will need to speak to the judge and set up payments. Once you are on a payment plan, the judge is the only person that can extend or modify that agreement. If you cannot make your payment, you will need to appear on your court date and speak directly with the judge.

6. What happens if I don't show up for my court date?

Each situation is different. There are any number of potential actions that could be taken; for example:

• A bond could be forfeited
• The judge could send a courtesy letter
• Motions could be filed against you
• A warrant could be issued for your arrest for failure to appear in court

Your best bet is to appear on time, as scheduled and show respect for your judicial system.

7. Can't I just do a class and get put on probation?

You will need to appear in court and ask the judge.

8. How do I get my license back?

There are several situation where a license may be confiscated. Therefore it is hard to answer your question. Contact the court and we will determine the best way to direct you. You can also call the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-751-4600.

9. Will my insurance go up because of this ticket?

It depends on your insurance carrier, your previous driving record, and whether or not this ticket is for a moving violation. Check with your insurance agent.

10. Can I have a continuance?

You'll need to come to court on your assigned court date and ask the judge.

11. How do I get this ticket "fixed"?

The Lake Saint Louis Municipal Court does not "fix" tickets. If you are asking how a ticket can be amended or points reduced, you will need to see an attorney. You might also appear in court without an attorney and speak to the judge to make your request for leniency.

12. Can you recommend the name of an attorney?

It would be unethical for officers or staff of the Municipal Court to recommend an attorney. You might try contacting the Missouri Bar Association or consulting the Yellow Pages' "Attorneys" section.

13. The police won't really come to my house or job to arrest me, will they?

The police are acting within their authority to arrest you at any place or time. A warrant for failure to appear in court is no different than any other arrest order. However, if you want to avoid the embarrassment of being arrested in front of your family, friends, fellow students, or coworkers, you have the option of surrendering yourself to your local police department and posting a bond, or paying fines and costs if they have been previously assessed.

You should note that all attempts will be made to satisfy the court's arrest order should you choose not to comply.

14. Can I have someone else appear for me?

This is not in your best interest, unless the person is an attorney. The judge does realize there are extenuating circumstance that may prevent someone from appearing. Therefore, it would be better to have someone appear for you and explain to the judge why you are not there, rather than not have anybody appear at all.

15. If a warrant is issued, when will it be active?

The warrant is active as soon as the judge signs it.

16. What is the best time to show up for court and do you do first come first serve basis?

You should appear at the time indicated on your ticket, summons, or other court documents. The court lobby is open and we begin setting up for court at 5 p.m. You will be asked to sign in, and be required to pass through a metal detector - bags and purses will be searched for every ones protection. It is very important to be at court on time, as the doors will be locked when the Judge gives that directive. If the court session is small, we could be done in a half hour or sooner, so please make every effort to be at court no later than 6 p.m.

17. Can I pay with a debit or credit card?

Payment options are cash, money order, or debit / credit cards.

Go to the Municipal Court homepage to make a payment.

You will need your ticket / citation number and the amount owed.

18. Is there a dress code?

Proper attire is required for a court appearance.

General Unacceptable Attire

• Hats
• Inappropriate Pictures or Wording on Clothing
• Shorts
• Sleeveless Shirts

No shoes, no entry

Unacceptable Women's Attire

• Halter Tops 
• Midriff Tops
• Short Shorts or Short Skirts

Unacceptable Men's Attire

• Sagging Pants (Pants must be worn at waist) 
• Tank or Muscle Man T-Shirts