Are all traffic tickets handled in a criminal court setting?

No, not all traffic tickets in Georgia are handled in a criminal court setting. Some traffic tickets are classified as infractions, which are violations of state law that are punishable by a penalty but do not involve any jail time. These violations are not criminal offenses and, therefore, would not be handled in a criminal court setting. In Georgia, infractions are typically handled in a non-criminal court known as Magistrate Court. This court has jurisdiction over a variety of different civil cases, including traffic ticket violations. Infraction cases are heard in front of a judge, with no jury present. The judge will listen to both sides of the story and may decide to reduce or dismiss the ticket. However, if the judge finds the individual guilty, they may be subject to a fine or other civil punishment. It is important to note that if you are accused of a more serious crime while operating a motor vehicle, your case may be transferred to a criminal court. For example, reckless driving or driving under the influence (DUI) are serious criminal offenses and would be handled in a criminal court setting. However, minor traffic tickets, such as speeding or running a stop sign, are typically handled in Magistrate Court.

Related FAQs

Can I get a traffic ticket dismissed if I was not given proper warnings?
What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in a rental vehicle?
What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in a different state?
What are the chances of winning a traffic ticket trial?
Can a traffic ticket be compounded or reduced?
What is the best way to reduce the fines for a traffic ticket?
Will an attorney be able to help me fight a traffic ticket?
Can I go to jail for not paying a traffic ticket?
Is it legal for an officer to give me a verbal warning instead of a ticket?
How long do I have to pay a traffic ticket after it is issued?

Are all traffic tickets handled in a criminal court setting?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts