Pleas
Only the person who was issued the citation or their attorney may enter a plea. The plea may be entered in person or by mail. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. On a plea of not guilty, a trial is held. As in all criminal trials, the State must prove the guilt of a defendant “beyond a reasonable doubt” before a Judge or jury.
Your decision concerning which plea to enter is very important. Please read the following explanation of types of pleas and think carefully before making your decision. If you enter a plea of guilty or nolo contendere (no contest), you should be prepared to pay the fine.
Plea of Guilty: You are admitting that the law prohibits the act and that you committed the act charged. A plea of guilty may be used against you later in a civil suit if there was a traffic accident.
Plea of Nolo Contendere (No Contest): You do not contest the State’s charge against you. You will almost certainly be found guilty, unless you are eligible and wish to complete a driver safety course and/or court ordered probation. Also, a plea of no contest may not be used against you in a subsequent civil suit for damages.
Plea of Not-Guilty: You are denying guilt and the State must prove the charge filed against you during a court trial. If you plead not guilty, you must decide if you wish to hire an attorney or represent yourself at trial.
When entering a plea of not-guilty, you must decide between a Bench Trial or a Jury Trial. A Bench Trial is before the Judge. The Judge decides the facts and renders judgment. A Jury Trial consists of a jury of six (6) Aledo residents who will decide the facts and render judgment.