Know Your Options

In West Virginia you have three plea options:

• Guilty
• No contest
• Not guilty

Regardless of plea, it must be entered before or on the court date posted on the citation.

NOTE: If you've lost your ticket, learn what steps to take in our Lost Traffic Ticket page.

What it Means to Fight Your WV Traffic Ticket

Contesting your traffic ticket in courts means:

• You are using your right to a court trial with the purpose of having the charges reduced or dismissed.
• You may represent yourself, or hire legal counsel.
• No fines or penalties if the court rules in your favor, but you still must pay court fees and, if applicable, legal fees.
• If you're found guilty, you must pay fines and all associated fees. The Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will assign points to your driving record, possibly causing the loss of your WV driver's license and increased auto insurance rates.

Pleading Guilty or No Contest

Either plea requires paying the ticket fine amount to the court listed on your citation. Unless you need to arrange for a payment plan, a court appearance is not needed. Check out our Pay Traffic Ticket page for full details.

Avoid Late Penalties

Failing to respond to the ticket is not recommended. Repercussions may include the suspension of your West Virginia driver's license and a bench warrant for your arrest.

Notify the Court

In Person

Check your citation for the court location and the arraignment date and time. If you meet with the prosecuting attorney and no agreement can be reached, the court will issue a trial date.

Phone

This options depends on the court. If offered, you must enter the not guilty plea prior to the hearing date listed on the citation.

Hire a Traffic Ticket Attorney

Hiring a traffic ticket lawyer will better your chances for reduced charges or ticket dismissal. Depending on your driving history, this could mean saving your West Virginia driver's license from suspension or revocation.

Prepare Your Case

If you decide to hire legal help, your traffic ticket lawyer will prepare and present your case. If, however, you decide to represent yourself, the pressure will be on you to prepare and present a solid defense.

Plead Your Case Before a Judge or Jury

After hearing both sides, the presiding judge will issue a decision. If found guilty, the court will explain how to go about settling your fines.

Check Your Driving Record

Regardless of verdict, check your driving record after the trial for accuracy. If you notice any errors, immediately contact the DMV.

Shop for Better Auto Insurance Rates

You always have the option to shop for lower car insurance rates. Comparing the rates of different auto insurance providers online is a great way to find a plan that best meets your coverage needs.