FAQ

What does the Justice Department do?

The San Andreas Justice Department (SAJD) is the primary agency responsible for overseeing and administering the legal and judicial processes within the State of San Andreas. Its mission is to uphold justice, protect individual rights, and ensure the fair and efficient enforcement of state laws. The Department serves as the backbone of the state’s legal system and works to maintain public trust in the rule of law.

The SAJD manages and supervises all court proceedings across various divisions, including:

• Criminal Court

• Traffic Court

• Civil Court

• Appellate Court

It ensures that trials, hearings, and legal processes are conducted fairly, timely, and in accordance with the law.

How do I fight a ticket?

If you wish to contest a traffic citation in the State of San Andreas, you have the right to fight your ticket in Traffic Court.

See the Traffic Court page for more information on how to plan your day in court.

How do I fight an arrest?

If you have been arrested and believe the charges are incorrect, unjust, or lack evidence, you have the right to challenge the arrest through the judicial process. The San Andreas Justice Department has procedures in place to ensure fairness and protect your legal rights.

In order to fight an arrest, you must fill out this form to have your name placed on the docket.

A board of Judges conduct a monthly audit on case requests to ensure they are worth the resources of the court.

See Trial Proceedings & Bail Hearing for more information.

What is a JD Directive?

A JD Directive (Justice Department Directive) is an official order, guideline, or procedural instruction issued by the San Andreas Justice Department (SAJD) to establish, clarify, or update specific policies, standards, or operational procedures within the state’s legal and judicial system.

For a list of directives recognized by the Court, please look at Directives.

How do I become an Attorney?

To become a licensed Attorney authorized to practice law in the State of San Andreas, you must complete the official application and approval process overseen by the San Andreas Justice Department (SAJD). Please submit this form to start the process.

Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Justice Department Command, which may include:

• Evaluation of your qualifications and experience

• Verification of your understanding of court procedures and rules

• A background check, if applicable

What are the differences between guilty, not guilty, and no contest pleas?

• Guilty A guilty plea means you admit to committing the crime and accept responsibility. The court will move forward with sentencing based on this admission.

• Not Guilty A not guilty plea means you deny the charges or want the prosecution to prove your guilt at trial. This is the most common plea and preserves your right to a trial.

• No Contest A no contest plea means you do not admit guilt, but you also do not dispute the charges. It has the same immediate effect as a guilty plea in criminal court, but it may not be used as an admission of guilt in a related civil case

What is the difference between a Jury Trial and a Bench Trial?

A jury trial involves a group of citizens (the jury) who are selected to hear the evidence and determine the facts of the case. The judge oversees the legal procedures, but the jury decides whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty.

A bench trial, on the other hand, is decided solely by a judge. The judge hears the evidence, determines the facts, and delivers the verdict. Bench trials are often faster and may be preferred in cases involving complex legal issues.