How long do I have to respond to a traffic ticket?

In Arizona, you must respond to a traffic ticket within 15 days after it is issued. If you do not respond to the ticket within this time frame, the court may assume that you are guilty and issue a default judgment against you. The Arizona motor vehicle laws require that those accused of a traffic violation must respond in writing to the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) within 15 days of the date written on the ticket. This is usually the date the ticket was issued. If you choose to contest the ticket or plead “not guilty” you must do this in writing and submit it to MVD, before the 15 day deadline. If you fail to respond, or fail to appear in court on the date established for your hearing, then you may be subject to a default judgment and added fines or penalties. If you do not wish to contest the ticket, you can plead “guilty” or “no contest” to the charges and pay the fine by the 15 day deadline. Paying the fine does not disqualify you from traffic safety school or other courses that may reduce your fines or prevent points from being assessed. In most cases, if you respond timely and pay the fines for the traffic ticket, the outcome will be less severe than if you fail to respond. It is important to respond to the ticket as soon as possible to avoid any further legal issues.

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How long do I have to respond to a traffic ticket?

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