Washington Traffic Courts

IRLJ 3.1(b)(1) lets you contest a civil traffic infraction by mail instead of appearing in court. Within 15 daysof the citation, mail the court a written request to contest along with your written statement of defense — photos, diagrams, dash-cam stills, and witness statements are fair game. No bond is required. The judge rules on the papers and the court mails the decision. If you lose, you can request an in-person contested hearing as a next step.