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Traffic Court

Traffic Arraignment is the first opportunity for a person to appear in court to answer to a traffic charge or allegation with a plea. A person charged with a traffic offense is referred to as the “defendant” and is afforded the same rights as anyone charged with a criminal offense.

Hours of Operation: Mon - Fri *Doors open at 8:15 AM
Location: 375 S. High St. Columbus, OH 43215

Courtroom 1A: Last names A-K
Courtroom 1B: Last names L-Z

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TRAFFIC ARRAIGNMENT

What to Expect at the Hearing

At arrival, parties must check in with the Bailiff in the courtroom. *A list of defendants with the case number is posted outside each courtroom.
If the charge carries a possible penalty of jail and the Defendant meets the financial guidelines, they can speak with the Public Defender.

What to Bring

Copy of the traffic ticket or case number. Find a case number
Proof of Insurance

Plea Options

GUILTY - Admission of guilt to the truth of the facts alleged in the complaint.
NO CONTEST - No admission of guilt, but an admission of the truth of the facts alleged in the complaint, along with any additional information that may be provided to the Court by the prosecutor.
NOT GUILTY - Denial of guilt and/or a denial of the truth of the facts alleged in the complaint.

*A DEFENDANT MAY REQUEST A CONTINUANCE OF THEIR ARRAIGNMENT TO A LATER DATE BY FILING A MOTION AND ENTRY FOR CONTINUANCE AT LEAST TEN (10) DAYS BEFORE THE SCHEDULED COURT DATE.

FAQ

If I plead not guilty, how soon will my case be set for trial?

If you do not waive your right to a speedy trial, the trial will be set within ten (10) days.
If you waive your right to a speedy trial, the trial will be set out two (2) weeks or longer.

What happens after the arraignment?

If your case carries a possibility of jail, you can request a jury trial and a pretrial will be set in front of a judge.
If you have a minor misdemeanor, you can only request a court trial (trial in front of a judge and not a jury) and your case will be set for trial.