If you’re like many restaurateurs and other small business owners, you’re always on the lookout for health code violations – but what should you do if you receive a ticket for one? Here’s what you need to know.
What is a Municipal Ticket for a Health Code Violation?
In some cases, restaurants and other small business owners receive municipal tickets for health code violations. The health code is designed to protect consumers, so the state takes violations pretty seriously. A municipal ticket, which is an alternative to a criminal offense, is one way that officials can ensure that businesses comply with the health code. These tickets tell you the specific violation charged against you.
What to Do if You Get a Municipal Ticket for a Health Code Violation?
If you receive a citation, you can answer the charge by entering a plea. Your citation will have a court date listed on it – but you don’t have to go to court if you pay your fine on or before your court date, or if you enter a plea online, by mail or by fax. You can plead guilty, not guilty or no contest to the charge against you. (Juvenile citations are different, and so are those that involve drunk driving charges. You must appear in court for those.)
As with anything else in the legal system, you can have an attorney represent you.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About a Municipal Ticket for a Health Code Violation?
If you’ve received a municipal ticket for a health code violation – or for any other reason – we may be able to help you. Call us at 414-383-6700 for a free consultation. We can answer your questions about the process and what to do next, as well as the consequences you may face for pleading guilty or no contest. We’ll also help you determine the best path forward.
