How will I know a court date has been applied for?

 We will mail you a copy of the filing.

How much time do I have after receiving a ticket?

You have 15 days after the ticket is issued, to take action, so there should be no delay in getting the ticket to us.  There is an additional 12 days after that but it is better not to work with that in mind.

How will I know the day my case will be heard?

 A “Notice of Trial” will be mailed directly to THE REGISTERED OWNER OF THE VEHICLE.

 How long does it take for my case to be heard?

 At present, it takes from about 5 months to over a year.  Some cases like Handicapped parking violations and Fire routes sometimes get to trial ahead of other infractions.  Cases get to Trial much sooner in Municipalities other than Toronto.

 Will my case be withdrawn if it takes too long to get to trial?

 It is your RIGHT to have a trial within a reasonable time; and there is a procedure to follow if you believe your case is taking too long to get to trial.  Contact us for more information.

What if I have more than 1 ticket?

Send $5.00 for the first ticket and $3.00 for each additional ticket, providing it is the same name on the registration; it could be different vehicles.  A Parking ticket and a traffic ticket cannot be treated as 2 tickets for this purpose; they are dealt with in separate offices.  (See  Parking Tickets)

 Is there any leniency for vehicles used for business?

 Yes, if the vehicle is used to make deliveries there are some options.  We have a separate program for businesses; please contact us to have the program explained to you.

 Can someone else appear at the trial for me if I can’t be there?

 Yes you can have someone appear on your behalf.  They should have a copy of the Notice of Trial with them.

 Can GTA Legal Services appear for me in court?

Certainly!  The fee for a Court Appearance starts at $10.00.  The $5.00 paid for filing does not include attending court.  Contact us  after you have received your Notice of Trial.”

 What options do I have when I go to court?

You can plead guilty and offer an explanation; usually the fine is substantially reduced when this option is taken. (Recommended,  for parking tickets.) 
(2) You can plead Not Guilty and state your case. You will have an
opportunity to question the officer.  You should have with you; any permits, licenses and other material that might substantiate your case.

Will I have to take an Oath?

If you plead guilty, you do not have to take an oath.  If your plea is “Not Guilty” you will have to take an oath; by affirmation or by the Bible, you have a choice.  

Where is the trial held?  

Parking violations are now dealt with at;1530 Markham road  (Markham road just North of Hwy 401) Scarborough, Ontario, also at York Civic Centre, 2700 Eglinton Ave West (at Keele)  On July 13, 2009, a new Courthouse was opened at 70 Centre Ave. Toronto, (University & Dundas) your trial notice will show the address where your case will be heard.  Traffic ticket cases are held at several locations.  It will be shown on your “Notice of Trial”

If I am not comfortable enough with English, can I have an interpreter?

Yes, an interpreter will be provided AT NO COST TO YOU. (Sign language included) Please make that request when you send your ticket to us.  State the language so that the interpreter will be scheduled for the trial.  Your government provides interpreters for almost any language.

 Will I be able to renew my license plates while I await the trial?

Certainly!  Matters awaiting trial do not affect plate renewal.

Does a Parking Ticket affect my Driver’s license?

No, parking tickets do not affect your Driver’s license even if you go to court and do not win.

 I have a Handicap permit; will my parking ticket be cancelled?

Having a Handicap permit only authorize you to use parking spaces reserved for the handicapped.  However, depending on your circumstance, after telling your story the fine might be waived or substantially reduced.

When attending court it is sensible to dress tidy and be of good comportment.  Food and drinks are not allowed in the Courtroom.

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.  As soon as you enter the courtroom, you should go to the Prosecutor and state your intentions, it helps to keep things orderly.  Also, having a few minutes to relax before the judge enters the court room is a good idea. 

From our experience, the Judges are full of patience, they listen and they are fair.  They also ensure that Your Rights are not infringed upon.

 For more info send a message here; Contact Us 

or call; 416-917-0644 - 647-347-3400 - 1-888-327-6492.

  Also read: Parking Tickets   Traffic tickets