Placard Misuse

Quote:

---

Quoting zduck

---

My sister just had a similar situation. She was cited for the same thing (using our mom's handicap placard when she shouldn't have). How can you tell if it was issued as a "parking citation" as you mentioned? The notice to appear is checked "traffic" at the top, but in the details below, next to the CVC4461(c) number, the "m" is circled as a misdameanor. Does this mean she will now have a criminal record if she pays the fine? She just plans to pay it, since she knows she was wrong and there are no extenuating circumstances really for any defense.

---

If it was handed to her and she had to sign the citation, then it is NOT a parking ticket.

And, if she will be required to appear for booking prior to court, then she will have a criminal record. Chances are she will be offered an opportunity to pay this off as an infraction, but I cannot say for sure. She might consider at least consulting an attorney after she receives notice from the court as to how it is being charged.

- Carl

Thanks you very much for the information Carl. Unfortunately she did have to sign for it. I guess we won't know more until she receives the citation in the mail and the instructions. We're keeping our fingers crossed that you might be right and that this will be handled as an infraction and no booking (criminal record) will be involved.