By: Ashmar Mandou
Cook County residents with traffic violations have an opportunity to pay without additional costs next week and clear their record. Cook County Circuit Clerk Mariyana Spyropoulos announced the return of Amnesty Week, April 27th through May1st, to give residents a chance to resolve eligible moving traffic violations.
“This is our second year doing this and we are trying to help residents of Cook County take advantage of this opportunity and not be burdened by additional fees, said Clerk Spyropoulos. “For many residents, collection fees can turn an already difficult financial situation into an even heavier burden. This initiative gives people a meaningful opportunity to address eligible court debt, avoid additional penalties and move forward.”
During Amnesty Week, individuals may pay eligible moving traffic violations without the added collection fee. Parking tickets and red-light violations are not included. “Disobeying wearing a seat belt, passing a stop sign, improper lane changes are included in moving traffic violations,” said Clerk Spyropoulos. Amnesty status will reflect a resident’s record almost immediately, stated the Clerk.
“We encourage residents who are eligible to take advantage, especially residents with multiple traffic violations. This is an opportunity to pay less than you normally would; you are just paying the fee attached to the ticket, there is no additional fee. If tickets go unpaid, it’s then sent to collection agencies, and those agencies communicate with loan agencies that will affect your credit and your ability to buy a car or a home. Better to take care of it now while there’s help,” said Clerk Spyropoulos.
The Clerk’s Office will accept full or partial payments by cash, check, money order or credit card. Payments may be made in person at the Daley Center or at any of the five suburban district courthouses during regular business hours. Payments may also be made by phone by calling the Customer Service Call Center at (312) 603-5030. For more information, visit cookcountyclerkofcourt.org or follow the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County on social media.
