Atlanta Municipal Traffic Court is a court that handles traffic-related cases within the city of Atlanta. If a driver has received a traffic citation or has been charged with a traffic-related offense, they may be required to appear in Atlanta Municipal Traffic Court. Here are a few things that drivers should know about this court:
- Location: Atlanta Municipal Traffic Court is located at 150 Garnett Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303.
- Hours of operation: The court is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
- Types of cases heard: Atlanta Municipal Traffic Court hears a variety of traffic-related cases, including speeding tickets, red light violations, and DUI charges.
- Options for resolving a case: Drivers may be able to resolve their case by paying a fine, attending traffic school, or negotiating a plea agreement with the prosecutor.
- Right to an attorney: Drivers have the right to be represented by an attorney in traffic court. If a driver cannot afford an attorney, they may be able to request a public defender.
It’s important to note that every case is different, and the specific steps that a driver should take will depend on the circumstances of their case. Drivers are encouraged to consult with an attorney if they have questions or need legal advice.
What is the PTIT Program for Traffic Violations?
In many cases, PTIT (Pre-Trial Intervention – Traffic) is an excellent option for dismissing a traffic ticket in Atlanta municipal court. It allows cases to be resolved by paying a fee and, sometimes, completing a defensive driving course. The benefits are significant for drivers who might face serious consequences such as a suspended license or increased insurance rates.
If you are eligible for PTIT, the Court will transfer your case to the PTIT calendar.
Preparing for Your Court Date at Atlanta Municipal Courthouse
Performing relevant research before your court date is the best way to prepare for your case. You will have to make several important decisions within moments of entering the courtroom:
- Do you want to plead guilty or not guilty?
- Should you enter a nolo plea or a guilty plea?
- Is a bench trial better than a jury trial?
It’s wise to understand your options and make a decision before you arrive in court. Usually, the judges and prosecutors do not have spare time to engage in a lengthy analysis of your options. Plus, it is not their job to advise you of the best course of action in your case. So it would not be in your best interest to look to them alone for relevant information about your case.
What Paperwork Should I Bring to Court for a Traffic Offense?
Many drivers forget to bring relevant paperwork to the courthouse. For example, provide documents that show proof of any repairs if an officer charged you with an equipment violation, such as a broken headlight or tint violation. Or, if your charges include driving without insurance, but you had valid insurance at the time, you want to bring the proper documents as proof.
Do I Need to Hire an Attorney for a Traffic Violation in Atlanta?
Hiring an attorney for a traffic violation is not required. But having someone who regularly practices in the Atlanta Municipal Court can be incredibly beneficial for your case.
If you don’t have a clear understanding of the decisions you will have to make or the possible consequences, it’s a good idea to speak with someone knowledgeable before you go to court.
Schedule a free consultation to speak to an attorney today.