Frequently Asked Questions
When is my court date?
An appearance is required to be made no later than the date assigned on your citation. An appearance can be made by mail or in person. Your initial appearance is to enter a plea. You cannot enter an appearance by phone.
Can I pay with a credit card?
Yes (in most cases). A 2% convenience fee is added to all credit/debit card payments. Payment in full online will result in a conviction for the offense. If you need to pay a dismissal fee, a deferral fee, or a driving safety course fee online, please call 210-684-1391 for more information before paying online. The court clerks will need to make adjustments for your particular citation before you can make the appropriate payment amount online. Read the page on warrants prior to paying a warrant online.
I am under the age of 21 and have been charged with an alcohol-related offense. Do I have to appear before the judge?
Yes. Texas law requires that you appear before a judge in open court. If you are under the age of 18, you must appear with a parent or legal guardian.
Can I complete the alcohol awareness course online?
No. The alcohol awareness course must be completed by classroom method.
I am under the age of 17 and have been charged with a tobacco-related offense. Do I have to appear before a judge?
Yes. Texas law requires that you appear before a judge in open court. You must appear with a parent or legal guardian.
Can my spouse, relative, or employer take care of my citation for me?
No. Texas law requires that you enter a plea on your own behalf.
Will the Municipal Court assign an attorney to me?
No. If you would like to consult with an attorney, it will be your responsibility to do so.
Is the Municipal Court closed for lunch?
No. Clerks are available to assist you from 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Friday.
Am I required to have an attorney represent me?
No. You may hire an attorney if you desire, but that is not required. Most defendants in Municipal Court do not use an attorney.
What is the difference between a plea of “no contest” and “guilty”?
A plea of guilty may be used against you later in a civil suit if there was a traffic accident. They can say you were at fault or responsible for the accident because you pled guilty to the traffic charge. A plea of no contest may not be used against you in a subsequent civil suit for damages.
What happens if I contest a charge?
You will be set for trial. You have the right to have a jury trial by six persons of this community. You may waive this option and have the case heard by the municipal judge. The judge or jury will determine guilt or innocence based on merits of each individual case. If you do not wish to have a trial, you will need to enter a plea of “no contest” or “guilty”.
What forms of payment do you accept?
You may pay with cash, check, money order, or credit card. All credit card transactions are charged a 2% processing fee. Personal checks are not accepted as payment for warrants.
I received a ticket from a State Trooper or Sheriff’s Deputy. Can I take care of it in Municipal Court?
No. You must contact the Justice of the Peace Court listed on the citation.
How can I get an occupational license?
Municipal Court does not have jurisdiction to issue an occupational license. Please contact a Justice of the Peace Court.
Can I get a copy of my birth certificate at Municipal Court?
No. Please contact the Bexar County Court.
