In an effort to reduce the backlog of unpaid fines and court costs and give individuals the opportunity to avoid some of the added consequences of delinquent payment, Hot Springs District Court will launch an amnesty program from February 2 - 25. A fact sheet can be found on the District Court’s web page under Departments at www.cityhs.net .
The amnesty program is a one-time opportunity to provide relief to individuals who have found themselves in violation of a court-ordered obligation because they have been unable to pay. The program encourages payment of old, unpaid debt and allows the court to resolve other delinquent cases. It is designed to enhance collections and minimize costs to the city and county. Upon conclusion of the amnesty period, no further consideration will be given.
The program offers waivers of warrants to individuals upon payment of fines and costs in full. Amnesty will only apply to individuals who appear in person at the Garland County Courts Building, 607 Ouachita, Room 150, during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The court will not accept payment by phone or online. Provided an individual does not have another valid warrant for his/her arrest, the individual will not be arrested and jailed on a warrant. Upon their appearance, the warrant will be recalled.
By participating in the amnesty program, the individual avoids going to jail; seizure of tax return; additional costs, fines and fees; turnover to a collection agency; and/or extended probation, which adds $25 per month until the individual has a zero balance. Violations eligible for the amnesty program include all Contempt Failure to Pay Fines, Contempt Failure to Comply with Court Order, Failure to Appear on Traffic Charges, and Failure to Appear on Non-Mandatory Criminal.
Individuals may contact the clerk’s office at 501-321-6765 to determine eligibility for the amnesty program. Payment by cash, credit card, cashier’s check, and money will be accepted. No payment plans will be accepted; all fines, costs, fees and restitution must be paid in full. Funds collected will benefit the City of Hot Springs, Garland County and the State of Arkansas.