COURT SERVICES

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The Canton Municipal Court will resolve disputes fairly; in a manner that promotes public trust and confidence. With innovation and efficiency in mind, it seeks to provide equal and meaningful access to justice. Judicial officers and employees will stand together with a united court culture, lending their best efforts to serve the needs of the Canton Municipal Court and the community we serve.

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Frequently asked questions

What happens if I miss my trial date for a criminal charge?

If a court date is missed with proper notice of trial, the trial will go forth in your absence.



What happens if I missed my court date for a traffic ticket?

If a court date is missed on a traffic citation, a 10-day notice will be mailed along with another court appearance letter to appear in court the following Wednesday after you missed your court date. If the defendant does not adhere to the second attempt, the suspension process will go forth.



Can I reschedule / continue my court date?

Your case will be heard as scheduled unless you can provide written documentation as to why you could not make your court date as scheduled. This documentation will need to be provided at least 24 hours before the date of your trial for review. If you do not receive resolution on your court date, you will need to contact the court services at 601-859-9291.



Do I need to be in court the day I am scheduled?

If you were given a court date and time, you will need to either appear and plea or ask for trial, or pay the ticket (if applicable) prior to court. If you do not appear, you are subject to having your driver's license suspended (in the case of traffic charges) or having a warrant issued for your arrest (in the case of criminal charges).



Something unexpected has come up (e.g. illness, car issues, etc.) and I cannot make my court date. Can you tell the judge / officer or continue my case?

Your case will be heard as scheduled unless you can provide written documentation as to why you could not make your court date as scheduled. This documentation will need to be provided at least 24 hours before the date of your trial for review. If you do not receive resolution on your court date, you will need to contact the court services at 601-859-9291.



Can I represent myself?

According to state statute, you may represent yourself. You have the right to introduce evidence, examine and cross examine witnesses, make closing arguments, and otherwise present a defense to the charges. You will be held to the same standards as and attorney.



What is the procedure for entering a plea to a criminal charge?

There are 3 possible please to a criminal charge:
1. Not Guilty - You deny guilt and the city must prove the criminal charge against you.
2. Guilty - You admit you committed the act(s) charged, that the acts are prohibited by law, and that you have no legal defense for such acts.
3. No Contest (Nolo Contendere) - You neither admit guilt or deny it.



Can I plead by phone?

No, you cannot plead by phone. You either need to appear in court or pay the fine prior to your court date.



Can I appear earlier than my trial date and time and speak with the judge?

No, you may not appear earlier to speak with the judge. The Municipal Court judge will only speak with defendants on the appointed court date in open court.



What type of payments do you accept?

We accept cash, check, money order, and credit / debit cards.



When do I have to have my fine?

The total amount of your fine is due on or before your court date.



Can I pay my fine online?

Yes, you may pay a court fine online at CitationPayments.com.



Can I pay my fine over the phone?

Yes, over-the-phone payments are accepted. Contact our office at 601-859-9291.



Can I pay my ticket and still plead not guilty?

Payment indicates a guilty plea and forfeiture of fine monies. Appearing on your court date gives you a chance to ask for a reduction in fines or plead not guilty.



Why do I have to pay court costs when I didn't go to court?

Court costs are assigned to the particular charge you were given - not according to your court appearance, and are for the operation of the court.



Joycette Jackson-nichols

clerk of the court

226 East Peace Street
Canton, MS 39046
Phone: (601)-859-9291
Fax: (601)-859-9034

Canton Municipal Court 2015 Policy Updates

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* As of January 1, 2015 a Photo ID will be required in order to enter the court room on court day.

* Fines and Fees are due in full on the trial date if found guilty or if you plead guilty.

 

NO EXCEPTIONS

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© 2020 by City of Canton, MS.

CONTACT US

​226 East Peace Street , Canton, MS 39046 | 601-859-4331

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