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1. What happens if I fail to attend court as directed by my appearance ticket, attend a trial that has been scheduled for my ticket, or pay a fine that has been imposed or agreed to?

Failure to attend court or pay a fine may result in the court issuing a warrant for your arrest.

2. Where is the website that explains the process for a City Code or ABC ticket?

The Ithaca City Court website has a page entitled "How to Proceed With your City Code or ABC Ticket" that explains the legal process.

3. What should I do if I cannot attend the court date because I will be out of town, or I have to work, or I have an exam or I have some other conflict?

You must request an adjournment from the court. Adjournments may only be granted by the Ithaca City Court (607-216-6660, Ithaca City Court website). Do not contact the prosecutor to request an adjournment.

4. Can I plead "guilty" or "not guilty" by mail?

While neither New York law nor the City Code explicitly provide for entering a plea by mail for these types of offenses, the court does have procedures that they may permit a defendant to use to enter a plea by mail under certain circumstances. Information about the court may be found at the Ithaca City Court website.

5. Can I resolve my ticket and/or find out what I will be fined via phone or email to the city prosecutor?

No, the prosecutor may recommend plea bargains to the court, but it is up to the court as to how and when defendants must appear in court or how they may plead guilty to a charge.