Requesting a Trial By Written Declaration



You may contest your citation in writing without having to make a personal court appearance. This procedure is called a "trial by written declaration."

You and the officer will be sent form TR-205, which is used to collect your written testimony, under penalty of perjury. This form can be found on the court's website here: www.courts.ca.gov/documents/tr205.pdf. This form must be returned to the court by the due date listed on the form.

A judicial officer will review your written testimony, as well as that of the officer, and make a ruling. You will be notified by mail of the decision. If you are dissatisfied with the court's decision, you may then request a formal trial where you and the officer appear in court.

To schedule a trial by written declaration, you must first post bail, including any applicable traffic school fees and administrative fees. If you are found not guilty, the full amount of bail, less any correctable items, will be returned to you.

More information is available on the court's website at: www.courts.ca.gov/34713.htm.