Courtesy Notice Law and Legal Definition
A courtesy notice is a computer generated notice that is ordinarily sent for traffic violations. However, a courtesy notice may also be sent for other violations also. In traffic violation cases, a courtesy notice is usually mailed to the address listed on the citation within 30 days of the date the ticket was issued. The notice includes information about the options available to resolve the traffic ticket. It also includes information regarding proof of correction requirements for mechanical violations, the bail amount, mandatory court appearance requirements, and traffic school eligibility requirements. Both side of a courtesy notice should be reviewed carefully.
The following is an example of a state law(California) on the requirements of courtesy notice:
Cal Rules of Court, Standard 4.41. Courtesy notice - traffic procedures
(a) Mailed courtesy notice Each court should promptly mail a "courtesy notice" to the address shown on the Notice to Appear. The date of mailing should allow for the plea-by-mail option in infraction cases.
(b) Minimum information in courtesy notice In addition to information obtained from the Notice to Appear, the courtesy notice should contain at least the following information:
(1) An appearance date, time, and location;
(2) Whether a court appearance is mandatory or optional;
(3) The total bail amount if forfeitable;
(4) The procedure required for remitting bail;
(5) The plea-by-mail option in infraction cases and the number of appearances required where trial is requested;
(6) The consequences of failure to appear; and
(7) A telephone number to call for additional information.
(c) Additional information in courtesy notice Courts should provide additional information in the courtesy notice, as appropriate, including the following:
(1) Informal trial, trial by declaration, traffic violators' school, and telephone scheduling options; and
(2) Correction requirements and procedures.
