Municipal Court Pleas

Under our American system of justice, all persons are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty.

Plea of Guilty

You admit that the law prohibits the act charged
You admit that you committed the act charged
Be prepared to pay the fine

Plea of Nolo Contendere (No contest)

You do not contest the State’s charge against you
You will almost certainly be found guilty
May not be used against you in a subsequent civil suit for damages
Be prepared to pay the fine

You do not contest the State’s charge against you

Plea of Not Guilty

You deny guilt
A trial is held (either by judge or jury)
State must prove the charge that it filed against you