Albany City Court - Traffic Part - Albany, NY

Albany City Court Traffic Part

The Albany City Court Traffic Part is a specialized division of the New York State Unified Court System, located in the basement of the historic Albany City Hall on Eagle Street. This court is responsible for adjudicating non-criminal moving violations issued within the city limits by the Albany Police Department and the New York State Police. Common cases heard here include speeding tickets, failure to yield, and cell phone violations. It is important to distinguish this court from the Parking Violations Bureau; the Traffic Part handles moving infractions, while parking tickets are processed by a separate municipal office. The court ensures due process for motorists, offering the opportunity to plead guilty with an explanation or not guilty and request a trial.

Court Procedures and Payments

Motorists receiving a traffic ticket must respond to the court by the date indicated on the citation. Failure to answer a ticket can result in the suspension of driving privileges. The court accepts pleas by mail or in person during business hours. Fines and mandatory state surcharges can be paid at the court window using cash, credit cards (Visa and MasterCard), or money orders. Personal checks are generally not accepted for traffic fines. For those pleading not guilty, the court schedules pre-trial conferences where motorists may discuss their case with the City Prosecutor.

Security and Accessibility

Visitors to the Albany City Court must pass through strict security screening before entering the facility. This includes a magnetometer and x-ray inspection of all bags. Weapons of any kind, including small pocket knives and pepper spray, are strictly prohibited. Cell phones must be silenced or turned off while in the courtroom to maintain decorum. City Hall is accessible to individuals with disabilities, with a ramp entrance located on the side of the building and elevators to reach the basement level where the court operates. The location is well-served by public transportation, with major CDTA bus lines stopping directly outside or within a short walking distance.

• Adjudication of speeding and moving traffic violations.
• Processing of guilty and not guilty pleas.
• Collection of court fines and surcharges.
• Suspension of licenses for failure to appear or pay.
• Located within the historic Albany City Hall.