DEARBORN — People delinquent on civil infraction tickets have until July 3 to pay their original fines, minus additional fees, under the 19th District Court’s 2018 Amnesty Program.
Unpaid tickets can accumulate additional default fees, late fees and warrant fees, which increase the original amount of the ticket. This program provides people with an opportunity to settle their old court financial obligations and pay the original amount of the ticket.
In addition, the program assists the court in clearing up a backlog of files without additional court resources and collection costs.
“At this time we believe it is in the best interest of all to provide citizens with an opportunity to resolve their outstanding tickets, avoid possible arrest and take advantage of the court waiving late penalties and fees,” 19th District Chief Judge Sam Salamey said.
To take advantage of the program:
• Amnesty applies only to people who present themselves at the 19th District Court, 16077 Michigan Ave. The court is open for business from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
• Included are all payable parking and traffic civil infraction tickets issued within the city of Dearborn.
• Under the program, people with arrest warrants for failure to appear in court on a civil infraction will have their outstanding warrant cancelled. These people may come to court without the fear of being arrested for their voluntary appearance.
• This is a one-time effort to clear a backlog of cases. Once free from the backlog, the court will continue to move more aggressively to enforce and collect on unpaid tickets, including all penalties and late fees.
• During the period of amnesty, the ticket will be reduced to the original fine plus the $45 driver license clearance fee, if applicable. Upon full payment, the court will notify the Secretary of State to lift the suspension.
• No payment plans. Payments must be cash, certified check, money order or credit card.
The amnesty program began June 20.