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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.

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.