Municipal Court of the City of Hazlehurst

FORMS

Forms & Requests

Below are commonly used forms. You may download them, complete them, and submit them to the Clerk’sOffice. Submitting a form does not guarantee approval. You will receive a response from the Court.

Attorney Entry of Appearance Form

Change of Address Form

Open Records Request Form

Request for Trial Form

Request to Reschedule Form

Waiver of Rights Form

Address
17 Johnson Street
Hazlehurst, GA 31539
Phone (Clerk’s Office): 912-375-6614
Payment Call Center (Payments Only): 404-334-7342
Court Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on weekends and official City holidays.
Court Sessions
The Municipal Court of the City of Hazlehurst is generally held on the third Thursday of each month at 8:00 a.m.
Location: Court is held inside the Municipal Building at 17 Johnson Street, Hazlehurst, GA.
 Your specific court date will be listed on your citation or notice.
 If you are unsure of your court date, call the Clerk’s Office at 912-375-6614.
 Please arrive early to allow time for security screening and check-in.
What Cases We Handle
The Municipal Court of the City of Hazlehurst hears:
 Most traffic offenses that occur within the city limits
 Violations of local ordinances
 Certain misdemeanor offenses under Georgia law (if eligible for municipal court)
Some cases require a mandatory court appearance. If your citation says “MUST APPEAR,” you cannot pay it in
advance.

Important Reminders
 Bring your citation or notice with you to court.
 Dress respectfully (no hats, sunglasses, or clothing with offensive language).
 Cell phones must be silenced before entering the courtroom.
 Failure to appear in court may result in additional fines, suspension of your driver’s license, or a
warrant.
Disclaimer: This website provides general information about the Municipal Court of the City of Hazlehurst. It
does not provide legal advice. For legal guidance, please consult an attorney.

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Court Rules
Municipal Court of the City of Hazlehurst
These rules help ensure court runs smoothly and respectfully. Please review them before your court date.
1. Arrival & Check-In
 Arrive on time.
 Check in with the Clerk. Have your citation, notice, or identification ready.
2. Courtroom Conduct
 Show respect to the Judge, staff, and all participants.
 Stand when the Judge enters or exits.
 Speak clearly and only when called upon.
 Disruptive behavior, arguing, profanity, or threats will not be tolerated.
3. Dress Code
The Court suggests business or business casual attire. Dress as you would for an important appointment.
Not permitted:
 Hats, caps, or head coverings (except for religious or medical reasons)
 Sunglasses (unless medically required)
 Clothing with obscene, offensive, or overly revealing content
4. Electronics
 Turn off or silence all cell phones before entering.
 No recording, photos, or livestreaming without court approval.
 Unauthorized device use may result in removal from the courtroom.
5. Food, Drink, and Tobacco
 No eating, drinking, or chewing gum in the courtroom.
 No smoking, vaping, or tobacco use inside the courthouse.
6. Children and Guests
 Children must remain quiet and supervised at all times.
 If disruptive, you may be asked to step out.
 Seating is limited; please avoid bringing unnecessary guests.
7. Accessibility
 If you require ADA accommodation, an interpreter, or other assistance, notify the Clerk’s Office in
advance.
8. Safety and Security

 All persons entering are subject to security screening.
 Weapons, sharp objects, or prohibited items are not allowed.
 Follow all instructions of security personnel.
9. Legal Representation
 You may represent yourself or be represented by an attorney.
 If you cannot afford an attorney, you may ask about court-appointed counsel if eligible.
10. Payment of Fines & Fees
 All fines and fees must be paid as directed by the Court.
 Payments may be made in person, online, or by mail. See the Payment Options page for details.
11. Failure to Appear (FTA)
If you miss your scheduled court date:
 Warning and suspension notices may be issued.
 Your driver’s license may be suspended.
 A warrant may be issued for your arrest.
 Additional fees may apply.
12. Emergencies
 In case of an emergency, follow instructions from court staff immediately.
Disclaimer: These rules apply to all persons attending the Municipal Court of the City of Hazlehurst. They are subject to change by order of the Court.

Arraignment
Municipal Court of the City of Hazlehurst
An arraignment is usually the first time you appear in court after being charged with a crime or cited for an
offense. It is not a trial. Instead, it is a chance for the Court to explain your rights, let you know the charges
against you, and allow you to enter a plea.
What Happens at Arraignment
 Charges Read Out: The Judge will tell you what you are charged with.
Rights Explained: You will be reminded of your basic rights, such as:

The right to remain silent
The right to a lawyer
The right to a trial

 Enter a Plea: You will be asked how you wish to plead.

Guilty – admitting the charge
Not Guilty – denying the charge and requesting a trial
No Contest (Nolo) – not admitting guilt, but not contesting the charge (sometimes allowed)
 Bail or Release Conditions: If you were arrested and in custody, the Judge may decide about release or bail.

 Next Court Date: The Judge may schedule a later hearing or trial.
Why Arraignment Matters

 It makes sure you understand what you are accused of.
 It gives you the opportunity to respond to the charges.
 It officially starts the court process.

What You Should Do

 Arrive on time and be prepared to listen for your name when the Judge calls the calendar.
 Bring your citation or court papers with you.
 Decide how you will plead — you may want to consult with an attorney before arraignment.
 If you want an attorney but cannot afford one, you may ask about court-appointed counsel.

Note: Court staff cannot provide legal advice. If you are unsure of your rights or options, you should consult
with a licensed attorney.

Payment Options
 Pay Online: Visit www.hazlehurstgapay.com
 By Phone (Payments Only): Call 404-334-7342
 In Person: Pay at the Clerk’s Office, 17 Johnson Street, during office hours.
Accepted forms of payment:

Cash
Money orders
Official checks (cashier’s checks)
Credit/debit cards (processing fees apply)

 By Mail: Send a money order or cashier’s check (do not mail cash) to:
Municipal Court of the City of Hazlehurst
17 Johnson Street
Hazlehurst, GA 31539
Be sure to include your name and citation number with all payments.
Accessibility & Language Help
If you need an interpreter or disability accommodation, please contact the Clerk’s Office at 912-375-6614 or
email court@hazlehurstga.gov as soon as possible before your court date.