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Written declaration speeding ticket example. Example of filled form TR-205

To provide an example of a filled TR-205 form, I'll outline the necessary steps and details based on the information from the sources provided. The TR-205 form is used for a trial by written declaration in California, allowing you to contest a traffic citation without appearing in court.

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For a detailed guide on how to fill out the TR-205 form, watch this helpful video: How to Fill Out the TR-205 Form.

Example Courtesy Notice for TR-205

Page 1​

  1. Court Information:

    • Name of Court: West Los Angeles
    • Street Address: 1633 Purdue Ave.
    • Mailing Address: (Leave blank if not applicable)
    • City and Zip Code: Los Angeles, CA 90025
    • Branch Name: West Los Angeles Courthouse

  2. Defendant Information:

    • Name: John Doe
    • Citation Number: AB123456
    • Case Number: (Leave blank if not known)

  3. Request for Trial by Written Declaration:

    • Bail Amount Required: $200
    • Bail Amount Already Deposited by Defendant: $200
    • Due Date: 06/01/2024
    • Date Mailed or Delivered by Clerk: 05/22/2024

  4. Evidence:

    • Photographs: 3
    • Diagram: 1
    • Medical Record: 1
    • Other (Specify): Witness Statement

Page 2​

  1. Declaration of Facts:

    • Statement of Facts: 
      On April 15, 2024, I was cited for speeding on the I-405 freeway. I believe this citation was issued in error. I was driving within the speed limit of 65 mph. Attached are photographs showing the speed limit signs, a diagram of the location, and a medical record indicating my good health and ability to drive safely. Additionally, a witness statement from my passenger, Jane Smith, confirms my speed at the time of the citation.
    • Number of Pages Attached: 5

  2. Signature:

    • Date: 05/20/2024
    • Signature: John Doe
    • Type or Print Name: John Doe

Additional Documents to Include​

  • Written Not Guilty Plea: A separate document stating that you plead not guilty to the citation.
  • Attachments:
    • Photographs: Clearly labeled and referenced in the statement of facts.
    • Diagram: Showing the location and relevant details.
    • Medical Record: If applicable.
    • Witness Statement: Signed and including the declaration under penalty of perjury.

Mailing Instructions​

  • Assemble the Defense Package:

    1. Check/Money Order for court-required bail.
    2. Trial By Written Declaration (TR-205 form).
    3. Defense Document (all pages).

  • Mailing:

    • Send all documents via certified mail, return receipt requested, to the courthouse mailing address on your ticket.

Example of a Written Not Guilty Plea​

To Whom It May Concern,

I, John Doe, plead not guilty to the citation number AB123456 issued on April 15, 2024, for speeding on the I-405 freeway. I believe the citation was issued in error as I was driving within the speed limit. Please find attached my Trial by Written Declaration form (TR-205) and supporting evidence.

Sincerely,
John Doe

This example should help you understand how to fill out the TR-205 form and prepare your defense package for submission. Make sure to follow all instructions carefully and submit your documents on time.

Screenshot of the сompleted TR-205 Form Download filled Form TR-205 PDF example

Tips for Writing an Effective Declaration of Facts​

Crafting a persuasive Declaration of Facts is crucial to presenting a strong case in your Trial by Written Declaration. Here are some tips to help you write an effective statement:

1. Organize Your Statement Clearly​

  • Introduction: Begin by stating the date, time, and location of the incident.
  • Body: Present a chronological account of events leading up to, during, and after the citation.
  • Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your not guilty plea.

2. Focus on Relevant Facts​

  • Stay on Topic: Include only information directly related to the citation.
  • Provide Specific Details: Mention exact times, locations, and any relevant conditions (e.g., weather, traffic).
  • Reference Evidence: Clearly tie your facts to the evidence you are submitting (e.g., photographs, diagrams).

3. Be Honest and Accurate​

  • Truthfulness: Ensure all statements are accurate and truthful to the best of your knowledge.
  • Avoid Exaggeration: Do not overstate or embellish facts, as this can damage your credibility.

4. Maintain a Professional Tone​

  • Respectful Language: Use polite and respectful language throughout your statement.
  • Formal Writing: Write in a formal style, avoiding slang or informal expressions.
  • Third-Person References: Refer to yourself as "I" and avoid addressing the court as "you."

5. Avoid Unnecessary Information​

  • Stay Concise: Keep your statement clear and to the point.
  • Exclude Irrelevant Details: Avoid including personal opinions or unrelated anecdotes.

6. Proofread Carefully​

  • Check for Errors: Review your statement for grammatical and spelling mistakes.
  • Clarity: Ensure that your writing is clear and easy to understand.
  • Consistency: Verify that all facts are consistent with your attached evidence.

7. Include a Declaration Under Penalty of Perjury​

  • Legal Requirement: End your statement with a declaration that the information provided is true under penalty of perjury.
  • Example:
    I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.
  • Signature and Date: Sign and date the declaration.

8. Support Your Argument​

  • Legal References: If applicable, reference specific traffic laws or statutes that support your case.
  • Explain Legitimate Reasons: Provide valid explanations for any actions that may have been misinterpreted.

9. Assist the Court in Understanding​

  • Clarity in Explanation: Ensure that someone unfamiliar with your situation can understand your perspective.
  • Logical Flow: Present facts in a logical sequence that builds your case effectively.

10. Seek Guidance if Needed​

  • Legal Advice: Consider consulting with a legal professional if you are unsure about any aspect of your declaration.
  • Resources: Utilize available resources, such as legal guides or templates, to assist in drafting your statement.

Important Disclaimer: California-Specific Information​

The information provided in this article regarding the Trial by Written Declaration process using the TR-205 form applies exclusively to traffic violations in the state of California. Each state has its own distinct procedures, forms, and legal requirements for contesting traffic citations.

If you received a traffic citation in another state, you will need to:

  • Contact the court listed on your citation
  • Research the specific procedures for the state where the violation occurred
  • Determine if a written declaration option is available in that jurisdiction
  • Identify the correct forms and deadlines applicable to your case

The California Vehicle Code authorizes this specific written declaration process, and the TR-205 form is designed solely for use within California's court system. Attempting to use this process or form in other states will likely result in your contest being rejected or considered invalid.

Always verify the appropriate legal procedures for the jurisdiction where your citation was issued before proceeding with any contest.

By following these tips, you can create a compelling Declaration of Facts that clearly presents your case and supports your not guilty plea.

[Contesting Your Ticket?]

You can contest your traffic ticket without appearing in court by using the TR-205 form. Fill out the form accurately and include all necessary evidence. For an easy and convenient way to fill out the TR-205 form, visit TR-205 InstaFill.