Q: What traffic tickets are handled in Labette County District Court?

A: All traffic tickets issued within Labette County, Kansas are handled in Labette County District court except those tickets issued by city police departments or those tickets issued by the Labette County Sheriff’s Department on city ticket forms.  However, if a city ticket includes any felony count, it must be handled by the District Court.  For instance, if someone is cited for a third time D.U.I. it must be handed by the District Court as that is a felony level crime.

Q: I know there is a courthouse in Oswego and there is a Judicial Center in Parsons, where will my ticket be handled?

A: Look at the bottom of your ticket, it should tell you when and where to appear.  Your first appearance in front of the Court will be at this location.  After that, the Judge has discretion to move your case if they want.  If the Court will move your case, you will be notified.

Q: How can I pay my ticket?

A: You need to contact the District Court office handling your ticket.  If your ticket indicates you should appear in parsons then contact 620-421-4120.  If your ticket indicates you must appear in Oswego then contact 620-795-2221.

Q: Must I show up at court?

A: If the officer has indicated “see judge” or something similar on your ticket, the answer is yes.  If you do not see this on your ticket, but see only fine amounts, you may either contact our office regarding diversion or make arrangements to pay your ticket with the court before your appearance date.  Understand that our office cannot excuse your appearance, only the court can excuse your appearance.

Q: There is something about my ticket that I would like to speak with the prosecutor about, is that acceptable?

A: Yes.  However, you should always remember that the prosecutor is a law enforcement officer, anything you tell them can be used against you.  Additionally, the prosecutor has the duty to seek justice and it is his/her job to prosecute the case.

Q: What if I cannot make the court date?

A: Contact the District Court.  The Labette County District Court has a location in Parsons, Kansas and a location in Oswego, Kansas.  The Parsons court can be contacted at 620-421-4120.  The Oswego court can be contacted at 620-795-2221.

Q: Can I get a diversion?

A: Maybe.  A diversion can be beneficial to protect your driving record.  Our office does grant diversions based on a case-by-case basis.  You must apply for diversion and then your situation will be evaluated to see if you qualify.

Q: How do I contest my ticket?

A: If you want to plead not guilty and have a trial on your ticket you need to come to court and inform the Judge of your desire.  If you are planning on hiring an attorney, you should contact that attorney before coming to your first appearance before the court.

Q: I received a no insurance ticket but I have insurance that was effective that day, what can I do?

A: Show us proof of it.  You are required to have proof of insurance with you in your vehicle.  However, we understand that sometimes you might forget to change out your insurance card.  If you were properly insured on the date of the ticket, and can provide us with verifiable proof, we will dismiss the no liability insurance part of your ticket.