Traffic offenses, such as speeding, failure to wear a seat belt, running a red light, etc. are considered misdemeanors. A moving violation can put “demerit points” on your drivers license, which could cause adverse actions on your driver's history. All moving violations are reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) weekly. Non-moving violations do not have demerit points attached and are not reported. For more information on your driver’s license please contact the DMV.

Traffic Court is scheduled on every Tuesday evening at 6:00 PM with check-in beginning at 5:00 PM. Cases are called on a first-come, first-serve basis. For example, if John Smith checks in at 5:00 PM and Jane Doe checks in after him, John will be called first and Jane would be called next. Once you check in, you will be given a Misdemeanor Rights Form. This form will be signed in the presence of the Judge when you are called into the courtroom.

There are some options available to Defendants who are unable to appear on their scheduled date:

Extensions
Every Defendant has an automatic 10-day grace period to pay without any penalties. As long as the fine is paid within the grace period or the Defendant appears the following Tuesday there will be no penalties assessed. After 10 days, there will be a fine assessed of $10.00. A late notice is sent to the address provided on the citation. If the Defendant takes no action, a Warrant of Arrest will be issued.  

Bail Forfeiture
Defendants can pay the fine, known as Bail Forfeiture, by either mailing a check, money order or cashiers check. Credit Card payments are accepted over the phone by calling the court at (775) 246-6233. On-line payments will soon be available. Defendants are also welcome to pay in person. Cash is only suggested when paying the court clerk in person.

Waiver of Arraignment
If the Defendant wishes to not appear for the Arraignment or plead Not Guilty and go straight to Pre Trial, a Waiver of Arraignment must be filed with the court. All Pre-Trials without attorneys are scheduled on Wednesdays at 8:00 AM.  Each Defendant will have an opportunity to speak with the District Attorney on that day at the courthouse prior to the matter being brought before the judge. Court will begin after defendants have completed their meeting with the District Attorney, normally 9:00 AM. If the Defendant retains an attorney, they will be directed and advised by the attorney retained.