Town Court

SMALL CLAIM FILINGS

Applications to file small claims are available at the Court Office. Small Claim proceedings may be brought by any individual against anyone who resides, owns a business, or works within the Town of Elma. The maximum claim allowed is $3,000.00. The filing fee is $10.00 if the amount you are suing for is $1,000.00 or less and $15.00 if you are suing for $1,001.00 - $3,000.00, and is payable upon the filing of the application.

PLEAS

If you receive a traffic ticket and wish to enter your plea by mail, you can do so by filling in the appropriate plea section on your ticket and mailing your ticket to the Court. Once the Court receives your plea, if you plead guilty, the Judge will assess your fine(s) and/or surcharge(s) and you will be sent a bill for your charges with instructions to make payment. If you plead not guilty, the Court will schedule you to come to Court to speak with the Town Prosecutor and will notify you by mail of your appearance date. Please note if you plead by mail, you DO NOT need to appear in Court on the date directed on your ticket. Please also note whether you plead guilty or not guilty, it may take from 6 - 8 weeks to receive a response from the Court.

Entering your plea by mail is allowed only when you are charged with a traffic VIOLATION. If you are charged with a MISDEMEANOR or FELONY, you must appear in person on the date directed on your ticket to enter your plea.

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