Q: What do I do when I come to court as indicated on my citation, cite-out letter, cash bail or bond receipt?
A: Look for your name, the courtroom location, and the time your case will be heard on the calendar usually posted in or outside the Clerk's Office. If you are unable to find your name or locate a calendar, go to the Clerk's Office.
Q: What do I bring to court?
A: Bring any relevant paperwork having to do with your case, such as:
- Proper identification - Driver’s License, California ID Card, Social Security Card, or other picture identification.
- Name used when arrested (if different from current name).
- If cited, bring a copy of the citation.
- Letter from the prosecuting agency or court regarding appearance.
- Copy of bond or cash bail receipt.
- Jail release paperwork.
- Sentencing paperwork relating to your case; for example, the fine payment slip, community service contract, any paperwork received while in custody, etc.
When appearing in the Clerk’s Office or courtroom, you must properly identify yourself.
Use the same name and spelling as listed on your paperwork.
- If the name on the paperwork is incorrect, please advise the Court.
- Be prepared to present a picture identification card.
Q: How long should I plan to be in Court?
A: As a defendant, expect to be in Court for a substantial portion of the day to take care of all possible matters.
Q: What are the different types of hearings?
A: Arraignment- Reading of your Constitutional rights, advisement of the charges, entering a plea. Pretrial Hearing - A conference between parties (prosecutor and defendant) regarding the settlement of the case. Preliminary Hearing - A felony hearing by a judicial officer to determine if there is sufficient evidence to bind a defendant over for trial. Jury/Court Trial - The examination of evidence and the decisions of the issues of law by a judge or jury to determine guilt or innocence. Post Judgment Hearing - Any hearing after sentencing that would require a modification or change in the Court's order.
Q: What will I need to clear/update my driving record with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)?
A: An Abstract - A summary of the disposition of your case. If you are coming to the court specifically for this reason, please bring a print-out of your driver’s license record from the DMV. Additionally, special conditions of the DMV and of your court sentence must be met in order to have a driver's license reinstated after a DUI conviction.
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