Upon arrival at the court, you will be directed by security personnel to the correct courtroom. When your case is called, the court will explain to you what you are charged with and what the possible penalties may be. For all misdemeanor charges (except minor misdemeanors), you have the right to a jury trial, but you must timely file a written demand for jury trial. You may enter one of three pleas:

Guilty

You are admitting the charge. The court will find you guilty, will hear the complainant’s written report and your verbal statement, and will impose a sentence.

Not Guilty

You are denying the charge. A trial date will be set that is convenient for you and the complainant.

No Contest

You are not admitting or denying the charge, but you are consenting to be found guilty. The court will find you guilty, will hear the complainant’s written report and your verbal statement, and will impose a sentence.

If you are found guilty, the court either will impose a sentence at that time, or will set a new date for sentencing and refer you to the Probation Department for a presentence investigation report.