How to dispute a parking ticket
If you received a parking ticket from a Wrenford by-law enforcement officer and you wish to challenge it, you can dispute it at Provincial Offences Court. All parking offences are handled under the Provincial Offences Act and Wrenford's Traffic and Parking By-law 2014-075.
Step 1: Receive your summons
If you do not pay your ticket within 15 days, the City will mail you a parking summons. The summons lists the fine amount, the charge, and your first court date.
Step 2: First court appearance
You must attend court on the date listed on your summons. The court is located at:
- Provincial Offences Court
- 120 Church Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A4
- Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
When your case is called, the clerk will ask how you wish to plead:
- Guilty: You can explain your situation. The Justice of the Peace may consider your reasons when setting the fine, but personal circumstances do not change the fact that you broke the by-law.
- Not guilty: You will be given a future trial date. Use this time to gather your evidence and witnesses.
Step 3: Your trial
At your trial, the Justice of the Peace will hear both sides. The process is straightforward:
- City's evidence: The by-law enforcement officer will present their notes, photos, and any other proof that you violated the by-law.
- Your defence: You can present your own evidence, such as photos, receipts, or witness statements. You can also question the by-law officer.
- Decision: The Justice of the Peace will review everything and make a decision. They may dismiss the ticket, reduce the fine, or uphold it.
If you cannot attend court
If you cannot make your court date, you must contact the court at least one day before to request an adjournment or arrange for an agent to appear for you. If you do not appear and do not request a change, the court will enter a default conviction against you.
Default convictions
A default conviction means you are found guilty in your absence. The City will mail you a notice with a new payment deadline. If you do not pay by that date, the City may add a $40.00 late fee and register a lien against your vehicle.
You have 30 days from the date you learn about the default conviction to apply to have the case reopened. Contact the Provincial Offences Court to get the application form.
Contact
For questions about your ticket or the court process, call 311 or visit the Contact page.