Utah Criminal Fine Payments

Court fines are just one of the penalties that a judge may impose following a criminal conviction. Fines can be imposed in addition to a jail or prison sentence in a criminal case. But fines are also commonly included in the court's sentence as a condition of probation. Failure to make fine payments as required can result in an order to show cause, probation revocation, and jail or prison time. Fine payments can be made in person at the courthouse. But the Utah Courts also have an an online payment system that allows individuals who owe fines in a criminal case to pay the fines online.

Paying Court Fines Online

Once a court enters a final judgment and sentence in a criminal case, court clerks will enter the required fine in the court's computer database. The Utah State Courts have set up a website that includes an online payment page, where a defendant may make online payments using a credit card for court fines or victim restitution. A defendant must enter his or her case number, and select the proper court. The website will then display the defendant's name, and any balance remaining. A defendant can pay either the full amount or make partial payments.

In some minor cases, a court may allow a defendant to make a "bail forfeiture" payment in lieu of a personal appearance in court. While paying online can save you a trip to court, it can still result in having a criminal conviction on your record. Most cases that are eligible for bail forfeiture resolution will involve minor traffic offenses. But even these offense may have significant consequences, and can affect expungement eligibility in other cases.

A bail forfeiture is treated by the court in essentially the same way that a guilty plea would be treated. The bail forfeiture is entered as a conviction, and the case is closed.

Agreeing to make a bail forfeiture payment online to close a case acts as a waiver of certain important Constitutional rights. It can also carry significant consequences. Consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney is strongly encouraged before making the decision to enter a bail forfeiture payment.

Finding a Criminal Defense Attorney in Utah

If you are facing prosecution for a criminal case in Utah, it is vital to have the assistance of an experienced criminal lawyer. With experience that includes criminal charges ranging from aggravated murder to DUI, and virtually everything in between, Stephen Howard has the experience needed to help you with your case.

Contact us today to arrange for a confidential initial consultation.

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