What is the difference between a citation and a ticket?

A citation and a ticket are both terms used to describe a legal form given out by law enforcement to punish someone for breaking the law. However, in California, they are two distinct terms. A citation is an official notice of an infraction. It is less serious than a ticket and often given in the form of a ticket. A citation is typically issued for a minor infraction, such as a parking violation or a speeding ticket, and usually doesn’t involve any jail time. Citations can also include a monetary fine, which can be paid to the court, or in some cases, paid to the officer or agency that issued the citation. A ticket, on the other hand, is typically a more serious matter, and is often given to those who are being charged with a criminal offense. Tickets are issued by police officers and can result in a criminal record and potentially jail time. Tickets are not just for minor infractions and can include drug-related offenses, assault, and even homicide. In California, a ticket is similar to an arrest, in that it can lead to jail time or punishment through fines or community service. In contrast, a citation carries far fewer consequences and is typically just a warning to the violator that they have been found in violation of the law and that they must pay a fine.

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What is the difference between a citation and a ticket?

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