A Citation 500 is a court order that tells you to appear in court on a specific date, or it may order you to do something specific by that date
A Citation 500 is a formal notice issued by a court or law enforcement officer that requires you to take action — usually to appear in court at a set time, or to comply with a court order by a important date. It is not an arrest warrant, and it does not mean you are in custody. It is a legal instruction to show up or respond, and ignoring it can result in additional charges or a warrant for your arrest.
The exact meaning of a Citation 500 depends on your state and the specific court that issued it. Some states use this form number for traffic violations, small claims matters, or misdemeanor charges. Others use it for civil cases. The number itself refers to the form or statute the court is using, not the severity of the case. What matters is what the citation says you must do and by when.
Key Takeaways
- A Citation 500 is a court order requiring you to appear in court or comply with an order by a specific date — it is not an arrest.
- The consequences of ignoring a Citation 500 include additional criminal charges, a bench warrant, and possible arrest.
- You should read the citation carefully to find the court name, the date you must appear, and what you are being cited for.
- If you cannot appear on the date listed, contact the court listed on the citation before that date to request a continuance or reschedule.
- Bringing the citation with you when you appear in court is essential — it is your proof of notice and your record of what the court ordered.
What information is printed on a Citation 500
The citation will show the name and address of the court that issued it, the date and time you must appear, and the case number. It will also list the reason you were cited — for example, a traffic violation, a failure to pay a fine, a small claims judgment, or a misdemeanor charge. Some citations include instructions on how to pay a fine instead of appearing, or how to request a court date if none is listed.
Read the entire citation, including any fine print on the back. Courts often print payment instructions, phone numbers, and information about what to bring on the reverse side. If the citation is unclear, call the court phone number listed on it and ask for clarification. Do not assume you understand what it means — a wrong interpretation can result in missing your court date.
What happens if you ignore a Citation 500
If you do not appear on the date listed, or do not comply with the order by the important date, the court will issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This means law enforcement can arrest you at any time — at home, at work, or during a traffic stop. You will then be taken into custody and brought before a judge, and you may face additional charges for failing to appear.
In some cases, the court may also hold you in jail until your original court date, or set a new bail amount. The longer you wait to address the citation, the more serious the consequences become. If you know you cannot appear on the date listed, contact the court before that date and ask to reschedule.
How to respond to a Citation 500
The first step is to determine what the citation requires. If it says you must appear in court, mark the date and time on your calendar and plan to be there. Bring the citation itself, a photo ID, and any documents related to the case — for example, insurance cards for a traffic citation, or receipts if you are disputing a fine.
If the citation says you can pay a fine instead of appearing, you can usually pay by mail, phone, or online using the court's website. The citation will list the payment methods and the address or phone number to use. Pay before the important date listed on the citation. Keep a copy of your payment receipt as proof.
If you cannot appear on the date listed, call the court before that date and ask for a continuance — a postponement to a later date. Most courts will grant at least one continuance if you ask in advance. Explain why you cannot appear and ask what date works for the court. Write down the new date and time, and mark it on your calendar.
What to bring when you appear in court
Bring the Citation 500 itself, your photo ID, and any documents that are relevant to your case. If you are contesting a traffic violation, bring your driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance card. If the citation relates to a debt or fine, bring any receipts or correspondence showing you have paid part or all of it. If you have a witness who can speak on your behalf, bring their contact information and ask the court whether they should appear in person.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early. Check in at the courtroom or clerk's office as instructed on the citation. Dress neatly and speak respectfully to the judge. If you do not understand something the judge says, ask for clarification. Do not interrupt or argue — the judge will give you a chance to explain your side.
When you cannot pay a fine or do not agree with the citation
If you cannot afford to pay a fine, tell the judge when you appear in court. Many courts will allow you to set up a payment plan, reduce the fine, or perform community service instead. The judge may also dismiss the citation if you can show that the reason for it was incorrect or unfair.
If you disagree with the citation, you have the right to contest it in court. Explain to the judge why you believe the citation was issued in error. Bring any evidence that supports your position — photographs, witness statements, receipts, or other documents. The judge will listen to both sides and make a decision. If you lose, you can ask about payment options or appeal to a higher court, though appeals have strict important date and rules.
How a Citation 500 differs from other court orders
A Citation 500 is different from a summons, a subpoena, or an arrest warrant. A summons is a civil notice telling you that someone has sued you and you must respond. A subpoena orders you to testify in court or produce documents. An arrest warrant gives law enforcement the authority to take you into custody when ready. A Citation 500 is a notice to appear or comply, and it does not put you in custody unless you ignore it.
The specific meaning of a Citation 500 depends on your state's court system and the type of case. If you are unsure whether you have received a Citation 500 or a different type of order, call the court listed on the document and ask. The clerk can explain what the order means and what you are required to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to appear in person, or can I send someone else?
In most cases, you must appear in person. Some courts allow an attorney to appear on your behalf, but you will need to hire and authorize them. A family member or friend cannot represent you in court. If you have a medical emergency or other serious reason you cannot appear, contact the court before your date and explain the situation.
What if I lost the Citation 500 and do not remember the court date?
Call the court listed on the citation, or search the court's website using your name and case number if you have it. The clerk can tell you the date you are supposed to appear and can issue a new copy of the citation. Do this as soon as possible — the longer you wait, the greater the risk that a bench warrant has already been issued.
Can I pay the fine online or by mail instead of going to court?
Many courts allow payment by mail, phone, or online, but only if the citation says you can. Read the citation carefully to see if payment is an option. If it is, follow the instructions and pay before the important date. Keep your receipt. If the citation requires you to appear in court, you cannot straightforward pay and skip the appearance.
What happens if I miss my court date?
The court will issue a bench warrant for your arrest. You can be arrested at any time, and you will be taken into custody. Contact the court when ready and explain why you missed the date. Ask to reschedule. The sooner you do this, the better your situation will be.
Can I appeal a Citation 500 decision?
Yes, you can appeal to a higher court, but appeals have strict important date — usually 10 to 30 days depending on your state. You must file a written notice of appeal with the court that issued the decision. Consider consulting an attorney, as appeals require following specific rules and procedures. Contact the court clerk for information about how to file an appeal in your state.