CLERK'S FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Among the large number of questions the clerk receives, there are a few that are asked more than most. Here you will find many of these "Frequently Asked Questions" and their answers.
If your particular question is not here, or you need elaboration on an answer given here, feel free to contact the Clerk by phone below or by email.
What is the Payment Program?
In Administrative Order 97-08, the Chief Judge of the Second Judicial Circuit established a distribution schedule of the fines and statutory court costs imposed in county and circuit criminal cases. The order also provided an installment schedule for partial payments of fines and costs.
Who is eligible for the Payment Program?
Cases are automatically set on the payment program at sentencing. You must either pay it in full the day of sentencing or make your first monthly payment the day of sentencing.
When are the hearings held?
Collections hearings are held every Tuesday at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 2E.
What happens if I miss a payment?
You should contact Central Cashiering as soon as you realize that you will be unable to make an upcoming payment so that we can offer alternative solutions. Otherwise, a late notice will be issued, we will request suspension of your s license, a $10 late fee will be assessed, and you will be ordered to appear in court.
What happens if I miss a court date?
If you are not current in your payments and miss a court date, a writ for your arrest will be issued.
When do my payments begin?
Your first payment is due on the day you are sentenced.
How do I make my installment payments?
All payments should be made by cash, money order or credit card. You may pay in person to the Clerk of Court at the Leon County Courthouse, 301 S. Monroe St, 1st floor, suite 100, or at our Traffic facility located at 2810 Sharer Rd, Suite 19. You may mail payments to Clerk of Court, Central Cashiering, PO Box 267, Tallahassee, Fl 32301.
How do I figure what I owe?
You may review this document for various costs and fines. If you have additional questions, you may call 850-577-4220.
Are their any additional fees or penalties incurred by being on the payment program?
Yes, if you choose to make monthly payments, there is a one-time $25.00 administrative assessment for making partial payments pursuant to FS 28.24(26)(c). There is also a $10.00 per month late fee if a late notice is generated. Further, the clerk will request suspension of your Florida s License for failing to meet your financial obligation to the court. Failure to appear in court will result in a writ of bodily Blue ) being issued for your arrest and an additional $20 fee for issuing the writ.
Can my cash bond be applied to my court costs and fines?
Yes, FS 903.286 requires the clerk of the court to withhold from the return of the cash bond posted on behalf of a criminal defendant, by a person other than a bail bond agent licensed pursuant to chapter 648, sufficient funds to pay any unpaid court fees, court costs and criminal penalties. You will be responsible for paying the balance of any outstanding costs and fines.
What do I do if I t make my payment on time?
Contact the Clerk of Court, Central Cashering Division as soon as possible so that we may consider extending your due date.
Do I have to come to court?
If you have received a late notice and order to appear in court, you must appear if you have not brought your payments current the day before court.
Can I appear in court to speak with the judge even though I did not receive a late notice?
Yes, Collections Court is held every Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 pm in Courtroom 2E of the Leon County Courthouse.
Can the s office alter or adjust my costs and fines?
The s Office cannot pardon, defer, or alter fines imposed by the Court. But, we can and will help you in complying with the requirements of the Courts.
Clerk of Court
Central Cashiering Division
Leon County Courthouse
1st Floor, Suite 100
850-577-4220
Hours of operation: 8:00am to 5:00pm
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