Vehicle Code Section 40902 allows the defendant (you the cited driver) to contest citations in writing, without having to make a personal appearance in court. A Trial by Written Declaration is available in cases involving infractions of the Vehicle Code or of local ordinances of the Vehicle Code. Violations eligible for a Trial by Written Declaration must be infractions only. Misdemeanors and cases involving accidents are ineligible for a Trial by Written Declaration.

Where do I obtain a TR-205?

A Trial by Written Declaration (TR-205) form for the state of California can be accessed at:

http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/forms/fillable/tr205.pdf.

What does the court require of me to process a TR-205?

You will have to plead not guilty, request the Trial by Written Declaration and pay the bail amount for your citation.

What is the Bail amount?

As required by the court when using a Trial by Written Declaration, you must pay your bail (the fine of your ticket) up-front when processing your paperwork. When you mail your documents include a check payable to Superior Court for your bail amount. If you do not know the bail amount or if you have not received your courtesy notice from the court, call the court to get the bail amount for your citation.

How long does
it take to get results from the court?

After submitting your completed Trial by Written Declaration to the court, you will be notified by the court at your preferred address within 60-90 days from the date of submitting your documents to the court.

What if my ticket is dismissed?

The court will remove the demerit point associated with the violation from your driving record and then issue you a full refund of your bail amount.

What if I'm found guilty or unsatisfied with the court's decision?

The court will allow you to have a new trial, also known as a Trial De Novo. As required by the court, you must submit a written request for a new Trial; form TR-220, within 20 calendar days of the court's decision.

What is a Trial De Novo (TR-220)?

Trial De Novo means "all things are new" (Judge, Venue and Evidence) and is in court, in person.

Where do I obtain a TR-220 form?

A Trial De Novo (TR-220) form for the State of California can be accessed at:

http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/forms/fillable/tr220.pdf

If the court accepts my TR-220, will I have to go to court?

Yes, a Trial De Novo is always in person, in court. (If indeed you have a new trial).

Do I need legal representation in court for a TR-220?

Once you process the request with the court for a new trial on your own behalf, you will have to make the personal appearance in court yourself. Law firms are available for legal representation in court, but are not mandatory. We are strictly a professional filing agency and not a law firm, so we do not offer representation for you in court.