Mayor's Court
Mayor’s Court handles adult misdemeanors, traffic offenses, and code enforcement violations, from both state statutes and city ordinances, that occur within the incorporated limits of the City of Ponchatoula.
Mayor's Court Magistrate
Ernie Drake III
Court Administrator
Angel Cortez
Traffic Offenses
Persons who wish to contest a traffic citation must appear in court on the date and time indicated on the bottom of the citation. Persons who pay traffic fines in full prior to the scheduled court date are not required to appear. Failure to pay fines in full prior to court date and/or failing to appear in court as scheduled will result in additional fines.
Misdemeanor Cases, Code Enforcement Cases, and Attachment Arrests
Persons are required to appear in court for all misdemeanor cases, code enforcement cases, and cases in which the defendant was arrested on an outstanding attachment. The date and time of court appearances are listed on the summons and/or Notice to Appear.
- All persons and bags are subject to search prior to entering the courtroom
- No cell phones allowed
- No food or drink allowed
- Proper attire required no shorts, tank tops, or hats allowed
Fines & Payments
Pay In-Person
At City Hall — Monday - Friday, 9:00 am 4:00 pm
During Court Appearance
Cash, Money Order, Visa, Mastercard, or Discover Cards accepted.
No Personal Checks Accepted
Fines are higher for violations resulting in accidents. To obtain fine amounts for citations issued as a result of an accident, you must contact a Court Administrator at (985) 370-7600.
Fines listed are without causing an accident.
Please contact (985) 370-7600 for fines not listed.
MPH Over Speed Limit
1-10 $168 / School Zone $203
11-20 $178 / School Zone $228
21-30 $198 / School Zone $278
31+ $228 / School Zone $328
Common Fines
Failure to Stop for Traffic Signal (red light, stop sign, etc.) $170
Improper Turn $170
No/Expired Inspection Sticker $158
No/Expired License Plate $158
Driving Under Suspension $310
No Seatbelt
1st Offense $50
2nd Offense $75
No Seatbelt
1st Offense $100
2nd Offense $252
3rd Offense $589