Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you don’t see your question below, feel free to contact us.
When is my hearing date?
Your hearing date is located on your citation. If you have lost your citation or are unsure of your hearing date, you may call the Effingham State Court Clerk’s Office at 912-754-2118 for criminal related charges and traffic related citations.
Can I ask for a different hearing date?
In certain circumstances, the judge may grant a continuance of your hearing date. To make this request, you must contact the judge's office for approval at 912-754-2117.
I missed my court date. What should I do?
You may call the Effingham State Court Clerk’s Office at 912-754-2118 for criminal, civil, and traffic related matters for further information.
Can I call the judge to discuss my case or ask for a continuance?
No. All communications with the Judge take place in the courtroom in the presence of the Solicitor and your attorney, if you are represented. To request a continuance, please contact the Judge’s office at 912-754-2117.
I have limited English proficiency. Can I request an interpreter for my court proceedings?
Yes. Any person who speaks English “less than very well” and cannot readily understand or communicate in spoken English is entitled to language assistance services at no cost for their court proceedings. The fact that a person for whom English is not a primary language knows some English does not mean that person does not need an interpreter.
If you are represented by an attorney, you may instruct your attorney to request interpreter services on your behalf. If you are not represented by an attorney, please contact the Clerk’s Office at 912-754-2118 to request language assistance services.
Do I have a dress code while attending my hearing?
Proper courtroom dress is required. No one entering the courtroom shall wear shorts, jeans, hats, yoga pants, sweatpants, cut or ripped pants, crop tops, crocs, flip flops, slides, slippers, or any other casual apparel.
Men are required to wear business apparel or long pants, a collared dress shirt, and closed-toe shoes. Women are required to wear business apparel or long pants, dresses, skirts with a blouse, and appropriate shoes.
Individuals who are not dressed appropriately will not be permitted to enter the courtroom and may need to reschedule their appearance. For more details, see the Rules of the Court.
What is a Super Speeder?
Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-189, a driver is classified as a “Super Speeder” if convicted of driving 85 mph or more on any road or highway, or 75 mph or more on any two-lane road or highway.
In addition to any fine imposed by the Court, the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) will assess a separate $200 fee. You will be notified by mail within 30 days of conviction. This fee must be paid within 90 days of receiving the notice. Failure to pay will result in suspension of your driver’s license, plus an additional $50 reinstatement fee.
Important: The State Court of Effingham County has no jurisdiction over the Super Speeder fee and cannot collect it or assist with payment. For information regarding the fee, payment options, or penalties, you must contact the Georgia DDS directly:
Georgia DDS: 678-413-8400 | 678-413-8500 | 678-413-8600 | Toll Free: 866-754-3687
What is the Move Over Law?
Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-16, drivers approaching a stationary emergency vehicle, towing or recovery vehicle, or highway maintenance vehicle displaying flashing lights are required to:
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Move over into a lane not adjacent to the stopped vehicle if it is safe to do so; or
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If a lane change is not possible or safe, slow down to a speed below the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop.
Violation of the Move Over Law may result in a fine of up to $500.00.
How do I properly file or submit documents to the State Court?
The State Court’s filing and submission guidelines outline the procedures and requirements for submitting documents to the court. These guidelines are available on the Filing Requirements & Court Procedures.
Can I pay my fine online or at the Effingham County Clerk’s Office?
Fines must be paid through the Effingham County Clerk’s Office. Online payment is not available through the Court. Please contact the Effingham County Clerk of Court.
Can I ask for a reduction on my speeding citation?
Only the solicitor can make speed reductions with the approval of the court. Decisions are based on the defendant’s driving record and the circumstances of the case. You may be eligible to participate in the Pretrial Diversion Program. Solicitor: Spencer Tyson, styson@effinghamcounty.org or 912.754.2136.
What is the Pretrial Diversion Program and am I eligible to participate?
The Pretrial Diversion Program (PTD) was created under O.C.G.A. § 15-18-80 as an alternative to traditional prosecution. The goal of the program is to address the underlying causes of criminal behavior and reduce recidivism.
PTD typically requires completing an online driving course through Creative Counseling Solutions and paying the associated course and supervision fees. The online course takes most individuals approximately 2 to 2½ hours to complete. The course and supervision fees are generally comparable to the fine attached to the violation.
Once enrolled, you will be given a new court date allowing 90 days to complete the program conditions. After you submit proof of completion and pay all required fees, you will be excused from further court appearances and your ticket will be dismissed. A dismissal means no points will be added to your license.
I cannot afford an attorney, but would like to be represented. How can I apply for the Public Defender?
You may apply for a Public Defender on your Arraignment court date. The Public Defender will make an announcement before court is in session with instructions for the application process. We recommend bringing documentation of your income to assist with the eligibility determination.
For additional information, you may contact the Public Defender’s Office directly:
Amanda Oliveira, Public Defender
Phone: 912-754-7200
Fax: 912-754-7207
Email: amoliveiralaw@gmail.com
Website: www.amoliveiralaw.com