Traffic Violations

Pleading guilty

You can plead guilty by mail by following the instructions on the ticket and sending the completed form to Santa Clara Town Court, 5367 State Route 30, Saranac Lake NY 12983. Upon receipt of your guilty plea the judge will determine the fine and the court will notify you of the amount by mail.

Pleading Not Guilty

You can plead not guilty by mail, using your copy of the ticket given to you by the Officer. If charged with a misdemeanor, a court appearance is required. Follow the instructions and send the completed form to:

Santa Clara Town Court
5367 State Route 30,
Saranac Lake, NY 12983.

Upon receipt of your not guilty plea the court will schedule a trial and mail you a notice of the trial date. You also have the option of contacting the District Attorney for a possible resolution to your case through the traffic reduction/ diversion program. If the matter is not resolved to your satisfaction with the traffic reduction/ diversion program you may then ask for a trial and a date will be scheduled. A trial is the proceeding at which a judge will make a determination whether you are guilty or not guilty. At the trial the officer who issued the ticket will testify and you will have the opportunity to state your case. If you are found not guilty the matter is completed and if you are found guilty, the judge will determine the fine and arrangement for payment will be made.

Payment of Fines

The Santa Clara Town Court accepts, cash, bank checks and money orders made out to the court.