On May 4, 2020, Chief Justice Harold D. Melton of the Georgia Supreme Court announced that he will continue the Statewide Judicial Emergency for a second time until Friday, June 12, 2020. In a previous press release, the Honorable Harold D. Melton, the Court’s Chief Justice, stated courts should stay open to address essential functions and give priority to matters necessary to protect health, safety and liberty of individuals. Toombs County State Court is included in this judicial emergency. The courts of Georgia fall under the judicial branch of government and therefore are directed by the Georgia Supreme Court as to how to proceed in the current unforeseen and unprecedented circumstances.
While we remain open and continue to work in Toombs County State Court, we will continue to put public health and safety as the top priority. Arraignments that were scheduled for March 16th, April 20th and May 11th had to be continued due to COVID-19. Upon expiration of the judicial emergency we must begin rescheduling these appearances. This will be done in a manner to minimize exposure and reduce risk for each individual and our entire community.
If your citation instructs you to appear in another court such as Vidalia Municipal Court or Lyons Municipal Court, you should contact that court directly for instructions.
For the Toombs County State Court cases, you will get a notice in the mail from the Clerk of Court instructing you to appear when your case has been re-set. Please make sure the Toombs County Clerk of Court has your correct mailing address to ensure that you will receive your notice. Our fines may be paid online and paying online is highly encouraged to minimize exposure and reduce risk. If you are unable to pay online and it is necessary for you to appear in court, we strongly recommend that you bring you own mask, gloves, writing pen and hand sanitizer. We will make every effort to have masks for anyone who is unable to get one but due to the supply being very limited that may not be possible.
You may pay your ticket online via payyourtix.com. Your last name and driver’s license number or citation number must be entered. You may pay by phone by calling 912.526.3501. If you have a question about your fine amount or need additional assistance, please call 912.526.3501 or 912.526.3803.
These are very trying times for our community and our nation. We must all work together and carefully follow recommended guidelines in order to protect our communities. Public health and safety will remain our top priority.
