Settling a Citation

Options for settling a citation issued into the Carlton Municipal Court.

Many of these options are listed on the back of your citation for reference. There are three plea options.

• Guilty - A plea of guilty means that you admit to committing the violation(s) for which you received your citation. If this option is chosen, you do have the opportunity to offer an explanation of your circumstances. In consideration of your explanation, you will typically be assessed a fine, or other penalty.

• Not Guilty - A plea of not guilty means that you do not agree and wish to contest the violation(s) for which you received your citation. In this circumstance, you will be scheduled for a trial or hearing before a judge with the issuing officer present. If you are scheduled for trial, a fee of $35 will be assessed.

• No Contest - This means that you are neither admitting or denying guilt of the violation(s) for which you received your citation. Under Oregon Law, this plea results in a guilty finding without you having to admit guilt in open court. Just as with a plea of guilty, you will have the opportunity to explain your situation before your fine or other penalty is assessed.

If you wish to settle your citation without appearing before the Judge 

The City of Carlton offers a service called Violation's Bureau. This allows you to speak with the court clerk at City Hall during business hours any time BEFORE your scheduled court appearance.  In Violation's Bureau the court clerk has the authority to take "guilty" or "no contest" pleas on violation cases and assess fines, based on a schedule set by the State.  The Court may also, if certain criteria are met, allow Traffic School. 

You may also submit a letter of explanation via email or postal mail that must be received PRIOR to your scheduled court date if you are unable to appear in person. This letter will be presented to the Judge for consideration. You will then receive written notification of the Judge's findings.

If you wish to appear before the Judge

You must arrive on the date and time listed in the bottom left of your issued citation.  If you need an interpreter for your court appearance, please contact the court clerk prior to your court date in order to have an interpreter assist you in the court process.