You will be requested to enter a plea on your case during your court appearance. The following are the available pleas:
Plea of No Contest
A plea of no contest means that you are not contesting the State’s charge(s) against you. You will be found guilty of the offense, waiving your right to a trial, and should be prepared to pay the fine.
Plea of Guilty
By a plea of guilty, you admit that the act is prohibited by law and that you committed the act charged. A plea of guilty waives your right to trial and you should be prepared to pay the fine.
Plea of Not Guilty
A plea of not guilty means that you deny guilt and the State is required to prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. A plea of not guilty does not waive any of your rights. A plea of not guilty does not prevent a plea of guilty or no contest at a later time. Please read below for the Van Alstyne Municipal Court process when a not guilty plea is entered:
- The Van Alstyne Municipal Court strives to ensure the rights of all defendants are upheld. To enter a plea of not guilty you must appear in open court on your scheduled court date. During this hearing you will identify yourself to the court by stating your name, the judge will advise you of the charges against you, and you then enter your plea. When a not guilty plea is entered the judge will place your case on the pre-trial docket. During your pre-trial you will discuss your case with the prosecuting attorney and all available trial options. Trial will be scheduled after the conclusion of the pre-trial process.