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Responding to a traffic citation in Oregon

Many Oregon residents drive a car on a daily basis. Most of these drivers probably understand that they must follow rules of the road and all traffic laws. These include speed limits, license requirements and other safe driving rules. If people do not follow these rules, they risk being charged with a traffic violation. This can be as simple as a speeding ticket, or as serious as a misdemeanor charge.

When people are faced with a traffic citation, they may not think much about it. Even if they believe that they are innocent, they may not think that they have many options for proceeding with the case. However, in Oregon, there are actually four ways to respond to a traffic violation.

According to the Oregon Judicial Department, people can face different outcome depending on which route they choose. First, they can pay the presumptive fine, and as a result plead no contest to the violation. They do this by paying the amount listed on the ticket in full -- either online, through the mail or in person.

The second option people have is to send a letter to the court. In this letter, the driver pleads no contest to the charges, but offers some explanation. By doing this, the person waives their right to a trial on the issues in the case, but a judge will review the letter. After reviewing, the court can decide to lower the fine amount -- but no lower than the minimum amount. A higher fine could also be imposed but not without a hearing.

The third option is to request a trial after pleading not guilty. This request must be made in writing to the court. The trial will be scheduled for between 30 and 45 days from the time it was requested.

The final option for Oregon residents facing traffic violations is to request a trial by affidavit. This will allow a trial to take place and allows for the person to plead not guilty to the charges. But, instead of appearing in court, all transactions will take place in writing.

People should be aware of these options and understand which will work best for them. An attorney can be helpful during this process.

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