When making an initial appearance, individuals must decide upon and enter a plea to the charge. Signing a citation in front of an officer is a promise to appear in court and not a 'Guilty' plea. The decision on what
plea to enter is very important.
Types of Pleas
The Benbrook Municipal Court suggests reading and understanding all three plea options prior to appearance:
- Plea of Guilty
- Plea of Nolo Contendere (No Contest)
- Plea of Not Guilty
Failure to Appear
Failure to appear once a court date is set, or deadline has passed, will result in a warrant for arrest. Additional fines are levied for failure to appear.