Cottonwood Municipal Court deals with alleged violations of City Ordinances and traffic violations committed within the Cottonwood City Limits and the police Jurisdiction. The local court system provides a fair and impartial hearing for all citizens charged with a city ordinance violation or misdemeanor state offense. In municipal court, there are no jury trials; all cases are decided by a judge.  Anyone convicted in municipal court may appeal within fourteen (14) days to the Houston County District Court.

Hours of Operation:
The Cottonwood Municipal Court administrative office is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm except on Wednesday ,Our hours are 8:00 am to 12:00 noon. Court is held on the Third Friday of every month, unless there is a holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. I was notified that there is a warrant for my arrest. What do I need to do to take care of this?
A: In order to take care of an outstanding warrant, you must turn yourself in to the Cottonwood Police Department. After the warrant has been processed, you will be given an opportunity to post a bond and you will be given a court date. You may contact the Cottonwood Magistrate's office at (334) 691-2671 to receive specific information pertaining to your case.

Q. The court date that I was given is inconvenient. Can I reschedule my court appearance?
A. You must appear before the judge on your original court date to obtain a continuance. If you have an attorney, your attorney may file a motion requesting a continuance of your case.

Q. I wish to just plead guilty and pay my fine. Will the court allow me to do that?
A. In certain cases (i.e. minor traffic citations, etc.) the court will allow you to enter a plea before a magistrate and pay your fines and court cost. The Cottonwood Police Officers hand out an information sheet with a list of the scheduled fines. Violations not listed on the Schedule of Fines, require a court appearance.

Q. How can I find out the exact amount of my fine?
A. The municipal judge establishes the amount of the fine in each individual case. Depending upon the charge, the judge can, in most instances, place a maximum fine of $500.00 plus court costs. There are, however, fines for some charges (i.e. DUI) that can be much higher than this.  

Q. After I go to court, will the judge give me additional time to pay?
A. Payments of fines and court costs is expected at the time you appear in court. This is standard procedure throughout the state of Alabama.

Q. I received a citation for not having my proof of insurance, If I present proof that I had insurance at the time the citation was issued will I be required to pay anything?

A. Yes, You will be required to pay court cost which is actually a court administration fee.