Class "C" Misdemeanors
In addition to class "C" traffic offenses, the Justice of the Peace Court also handles a variety of criminal class "C" misdemeanors. Some of the more common offenses include: Disorderly Conduct, Assault, Public Intoxication, Minor In Possession of Alcoholic Beverage, and Shoplifting. In cases involving alcohol violations, an alcohol awareness course is usually required. In cases involving shoplifting, a home shoplifter's program may be administered with the consent of the Judge.
A defendant accused of one of these crimes has the absolute right to plead Not Guilty and request a trial by Judge or Jury. If you choose to go to trial, you will need to post an appearance bond. An appearance bond simply means you are putting up collateral (usually cash) to guarantee your appearance in Court. Once you show up for your trial, the bond will be returned to you.
On any offense, you have the absolute right to plead Not Guilty and request a trial. If you choose to go to trial, you will need to post an appearance bond. An appearance bond simply means you are putting up collateral (usually cash) to guarantee your appearance in Court. Once you show up for your trial, the bond will be returned to you.
If you wish to plead Not Guilty, you may also request trial by Judge or Jury. That choice is yours. You are not required to have an attorney in Court, but you may hire one if you wish. The District Attorney of Lubbock County will have an attorney present to prosecute the case against you. The Judge is prohibited, by Law, from discussing your ticket with you unless you have pled guilty or no contest, or the District Attorney is also present.
If you choose to go to Court, you are responsible for bringing all papers, pictures, and exhibits with you to the Court hearing. You may also contact the Court for information on how to subpoena witnesses.
You may also plead Guilty or Nolo Contendre (No Contest) and pay the fine amount listed below, or you may refer to the Defensive Driving option listed below. Drivers under 18 who get tickets are required to appear in Court with their parents. Individuals under the age of 18 and enrolled in a school in Lubbock County may ask the Judge if they can work their fine through community service.
Deferred Adjudication (Probation) may be granted in rare circumstances by the District Attorney, and may be requested through the Court.
Contact Information
If you have any questions regarding this service, please contact .