FAQs • Cheney, WA • CivicEngage

What is a Contested Hearing?: If you believe you did not commit the violation then you should select the third box, and request a contested hearing. Unless you request the officer to be subpoenaed, the procedure at the hearing will be for the Judge to read the sworn statement of the officer. Then you may testify or present any evidence or witnesses that you wish. If you want to have the officer present, please submit your request in writing at the time you present your ticket or as soon thereafter as possible so the hearing can be appropriately scheduled. Officers are not required to be present unless subpoenaed. There are instructions on the back of the hearing notice you will need to read that address this topic as well as other information. As a result of a contested hearing, the penalty may stay the same, be reduced, dismissed, or found not committed. A contested infraction hearing is a civil case and the Judge will decide the case based on the preponderance of the evidence.

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Infraction Process

1. What must I do if I receive a Parking Ticket or other Ticket (not criminal)?: Start by reading the entire back of your (green) notice of infraction (ticket) or the bottom right of the (white) notice of infraction (ticket). If you follow the instructions you can’t go wrong! You should note that you must respond within fifteen (15) days of the date that the ticket was issued. An infraction is not a crime, but failure to respond can result in the suspension of your privilege to drive. You can respond by either mailing the green ticket to the Court or bringing it in person to the Municipal Court office. Select one of the boxes on the back of the ticket and verify your address. If you select the first box, you are electing to pay the amount of the penalty as shown on the front of the ticket and the ticket must be paid within 15 days of the date the infraction was received.

2. What is a Mitigation Hearing?: A mitigation hearing is where you admit you committed the violation, but wish to explain the circumstances of the infraction. To request a mitigation hearing you should check the second box. The Judge, depending on the explanation and your record, may adjust (reduce) the penalty.

3. What is a Contested Hearing?: If you believe you did not commit the violation then you should select the third box, and request a contested hearing. Unless you request the officer to be subpoenaed, the procedure at the hearing will be for the Judge to read the sworn statement of the officer. Then you may testify or present any evidence or witnesses that you wish. If you want to have the officer present, please submit your request in writing at the time you present your ticket or as soon thereafter as possible so the hearing can be appropriately scheduled. Officers are not required to be present unless subpoenaed. There are instructions on the back of the hearing notice you will need to read that address this topic as well as other information. As a result of a contested hearing, the penalty may stay the same, be reduced, dismissed, or found not committed. A contested infraction hearing is a civil case and the Judge will decide the case based on the preponderance of the evidence.