Virginia Code § 19.2-254.1 outlines the procedures for handling traffic infraction cases, allowing defendants to waive court hearings by submitting written appearances and pleas. It specifies how pleas can be entered, including guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere, and details procedures for payment and waivers. The law also authorizes designated traffic violations bureaus to accept these written submissions in certain districts.
Yes, in Virginia you can waive your court hearing by submitting a written appearance and plea, except in cases involving property damage or personal injury.
You can plead guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere. The court must accept a plea of nolo contendere.
Yes, if you tender payment without a written waiver of court hearing and plea, it is considered a waiver of your court appearance and guilty plea.
In districts with traffic violations bureaus, the chief judge may designate these bureaus to accept written appearances, waivers, and pleas for traffic infractions.