Settle your outstanding court fees through amnesty program

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — If you are late on paying off a traffic ticket or other court fines, a program in Kent County could provide some relief.

Three district courts are offering an amnesty program that will reduce what some people have to pay. The program covers all traffic tickets, misdemeanors, and civil infractions, according to Sarah Breen, the 61st District Court clerk.

“It’s really just a way to encourage individuals to come in and pay off their debt,” Breen said.

The program began at the beginning of March and runs through the end of April. The 62-B District Court in Kentwood and the 63rd District Court are also participating.

“We always give them a payment plan. What can you afford, sometimes life happens and that changes and so because of that they’re not making the payments. Late fees are assessed, there might be a bench warrant those fees are assessed and by the end of it you have double what you originally owed,” 61st District Court Chief Judge Angela Ross said.

The district court charges $25 for each bench warrant fee. Late fees are 20% of the total remaining balance of the judgment.

“We don’t think fines and costs should be a reason to go to jail and so we want to prevent that from happening,” Ross said.

The court is working to track how effective the program will be in the future but says it sees an impact.

“We definitely see an increase in individuals who are interested in coming in and paying off their fines and costs — and not even just specific to the individuals who have the ability to pay that initial fee in full. We also see individuals who will come in and inquire about the ability to pay most of it. We will work with them as well,” Breen said.

Even if you cannot pay in full, the clerk says getting on a payment plan can get people back in good standing.

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