Frequently Asked Questions - Metro Court

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Q1		If I pay my fine in advance or I am fined in court, will I have a criminal record?
		No. Metro Citations are not issued for violations of the criminal code.
Q2		How many false alarm citations may I receive without losing my permit?
		According to Metro Code 10.60.080, the Metro police or fire department may file a request for revocation of your permit after the sixth false burglary alarm, fourth false robber/panic alarm or fourth false fire alarm, or upon failure of the permit holder to make a reasonable effort to comply with the requirements of this Metro Code.
Q3		If I am fined in court, how long do I have to pay the ticket?
		You have ten (10) calendar days from your court date to pay the citation before it is transferred to our Warrant Division for collection through possible wage garnishment, assessment of a lien on your property and/or a levy of your property.
Q4		If I do not come to court, will the cost of my citation increase?
		Yes. If you do not come to court, a default judgment will be entered and additional fees will be assessed, increasing the amount you owe.
Q5		Why do I have to pay the court cost if I am fined or if my case was dismissed?
		State and county tax and an administrative clerk’s fee are collected pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated and the Metro Code.
Q6		Why do I have to post my alarm registration sticker on the front of my business or residence?
		According to Metro Code 10.60.050, your current alarm registration sticker must be displayed so as to be easily visible from the outside front of your building or residence.
Q7		Why is the cost of the alarm citation less than the normal misdemeanor citation?
		The twenty-five dollar ($25.00) penalty for a false alarm violation is set out in Metro Code 10.60.100.
Q8		Can I get my case continued before the court date?
		Metro Court citations will only be continued prior to the original court date in cases of serious illness or a death in the family and you are required to provide documentation of the death or illness at the time of your request.
Q9		How long do I have to file an appeal on a Metro Citation?
		If you wish to file an appeal, you must do so within 10 calendar days from the date you either paid your citation in full or from your court appearance date, whichever date is earlier.