Guilty

The plea of Guilty is a complete admission of guilt.

No Contest

The plea of No Contest is not an admission of guilt, but is an admission to the truth of the facts alleged in the affidavit or ticket and such admission cannot be used against you in any subsequent civil or criminal proceedings. This plea is often used if there has been an automobile accident.

Not Guilty

The plea of Not Guilty indicates that you are contesting the facts as alleged in the affidavit or ticket. If you plead Not Guilty your case will not be heard the same day, but will be rescheduled for trial. Trials in Pataskala Mayor’s Court are heard each Thursday and begin at 3:30 p.m. The presiding Magistrate hears all trials. At your trial, the officer who issued the ticket or complaint will be subpoenaed into court to testify. If you have witnesses to testify on your behalf you may also bring them with you.

A Note Regarding Jury Trials

Pataskala Mayor’s Court does not conduct jury trials. Jury trials may only be requested if the degree of the alleged offense is an M4 – M1. Minor misdemeanors offenses do not qualify for a jury trial. If your offense qualifies and you wish to have a Jury Trial, your case will be transferred to the Licking County Municipal Court.