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

In Michigan, you typically have 14 days to respond to a traffic ticket. If you choose to fight the ticket, you must enter a plea of “not guilty” and request a court hearing. The court will then send you a notice of the court date. If you do not respond to the ticket within the 14-day window, the court will usually enter a default judgment in favor of the prosecutor (the one bringing the case against you). This means that you are found guilty and may be subject to the penalties associated with the ticket, such as fines, points on your license, and/or other penalties. If you need more time to respond, you can contact the court and ask for an extension, though they are not required to grant one. If you are granted an extension, the court will usually give you an additional 14 days to enter a plea or request a hearing. If you do not respond within the extended timeframe, the court will again enter a default judgment. It is important to be aware of the deadlines and extend them if possible. If you wait too long, you may end up paying the penalties and having a conviction on your driving record. So if you receive a traffic ticket, make sure to respond within the 14 days or ask for an extension if you need more time.

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

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