Probation / City Court FAQ

When is my ticket payment due?

Your ticket will list a court date assigned by the issuing officer. If you are not required to appear in court and do not wish to contest the ticket, payment must be made on or before that court date. You can check due dates online at mycase.in.gov or contact the Clerk’s Office for assistance.

How can I find out what I owe?

Case information is available online at mycase.in.gov, which is available 24/7. 

Select Elkhart County – Elkhart City Court when searching. You may also call the Clerk’s Office at 574-522-5272 during business hours.

Do I have to appear in court?

If your ticket is a traffic infraction, you do not need to appear in court, but you must pay your fine by the designated date. If your ticket is a misdemeanor, you are required to appear in court. If you are unsure, contact the Clerk’s Office.

Can I request a trial?

Yes. You have the right to a trial where the issuing officer will be present. You may bring witnesses or evidence.

If I go to court, do I have to pay that day? Can I set up a payment plan?

You do not have to pay the day you appear in court. The court will assign a “pay by” date. Partial payments of at least $25.00 per transaction are accepted. If you cannot pay in full by the deadline, you must request additional time from the Judge, either in court or in writing.

What happens if I miss my court date or do not pay my ticket?

For traffic infractions:

• A $25 late fee will be added
• The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) may suspend your driver’s license

Unpaid cases may be sent to collections, and additional fees may apply. You will receive notice from the BMV if your driving privileges are suspended.

What happens if my ticket is a misdemeanor and I miss court?

A warrant may be issued for your arrest.

I received notice that my license is suspended. What should I do?

If your license was suspended due to failure to pay or appear:

• Contact the Clerk’s Office or check mycase.in.gov to determine the amount owed
• Pay your balance in person or by mail

Once payment is received, the court will submit documentation to the BMV. Reinstatement may take up to 10 business days.

Will I get points on my driving record?

Please contact the BMV at 888-692-6841 for information about points and how they apply to your offense.

Do you offer diversion or deferral programs?

Yes. The Prosecutor’s Office offers diversion and deferral programs for certain infractions and misdemeanors. You must contact the program coordinators at least three weeks before your first court appearance.

Infraction Deferral Program: 574-296-1836
Pre-Trial Diversion Program: 574-296-1888

Can I make partial payments on ordinance violations or ambulance bills?

Yes. Minimum payments of $25 per month are accepted. For questions regarding ambulance bills or ordinance violations, contact the City Legal Department at 574-294-5471.

What if my case is in Elkhart County (not City Court)?

You can find case information at mycase.in.gov.

For additional information about county courts, visit:
https://elkhartcounty.com/en/#