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Court Fines

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The paper in your hand, explained

Pick what it says. You get the first three steps, the deadline that matters, and the rule behind it. Legal information, never advice, and every page lists its sources.

What does your paper say?

Pick the one closest to yours.

What does your paper say?

A ticket or a fine to pay

The clockThe date on the notice. Paying late can add fees; missing a court date is worse.

  1. Find the case or citation number and the court.
  2. Check whether the notice sets a due date or a court date.
  3. Pay the clerk the way that court accepts, and keep the receipt.
Read the full steps

The guide: How to pay a court fine

I cannot pay a fine

The clockBefore the due date. A court must ask why you did not pay before it jails you for it.

  1. Ask the clerk, before the due date, about a plan or community service.
  2. Gather proof of income and regular bills.
  3. Ask for a hearing on your ability to pay if you need one.
Read the full steps

The guide: What happens if you cannot pay a court fine

I was served with a lawsuit

The clockUsually 21 days after service in federal court; the summons says for yours.

  1. Find the response date on the summons.
  2. Respond by that date, yourself or through a lawyer.
  3. Ask about a fee waiver if you cannot afford to file.
Read the full steps

The guide: Default judgments: when you miss the deadline to answer

There is a judgment against me

The clockSet by the state that entered it, often ten years or more, and often renewable.

  1. Look up the case and get a copy of the judgment.
  2. Check whether you were ever served.
  3. Find how long judgments last in that state.
Read the full steps

The guide: How long a civil judgment lasts

A lien is on my property

The clockAs long as the judgment can be enforced, and renewed with it.

  1. Find the case behind the lien in the county records.
  2. Check what your state's homestead exemption protects.
  3. Once it is paid, make sure a release is recorded.
Read the full steps

The guide: Judgment liens on a home or other property

I need a court record

The clockPACER is free when a quarter's charges stay at $30 or less. An agency has 20 business days to answer a FOIA request.

  1. Work out whether it is a state or a federal case.
  2. Search the clerk's portal or PACER by case number.
  3. For police or agency records, send a records request.
Read the full steps

The guide: How to look up a court case

Two free tools

Fines and payment plans

Fees and judgments

Court records

Public records requests

Being chased for a debt that is not a court debt? Credit Help has the first steps and the deadline for each.

Court Fines