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Pierce County Shifts to Digital Traffic Ticket System

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  Published in Business and Finance on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 15:29 GMT by Tacoma News Tribune
      Locales: Washington, UNITED STATES

TACOMA, Wash. - February 15th, 2026 - Pierce County is undergoing a significant shift in how it processes traffic violations, moving away from traditional in-person court hearings towards a primarily digital and mail-in system. The change, announced earlier this week by county officials, is a direct response to a mounting backlog of cases, a problem substantially worsened by the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Pierce County District Court has been grappling with an increasing number of unresolved traffic tickets for some time. While the issue predates 2020, the pandemic brought court operations to a near standstill for a prolonged period, leading to a considerable accumulation of cases waiting adjudication. Karen Wilmoth, Pierce County District Court Administrator, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "We really have to tackle the backlog. The existing system simply isn't sustainable given the volume of cases and the need for efficient resolution."

Approximately 30,000 traffic tickets are issued within Pierce County annually, covering a range of infractions from speeding and running red lights to equipment violations and failure to yield. Traditionally, many of these cases would proceed through in-person hearings, requiring citizens to take time off work, arrange childcare, and travel to the courthouse. This process, while providing a degree of personal interaction, is inherently time-consuming and resource-intensive for both the court and the ticketed individuals.

The new system aims to alleviate these burdens by prioritizing online dispute resolution and mail-in submissions. Ticket holders will soon have the option to contest their tickets, request mitigation, or simply pay fines through a secure online portal. Detailed instructions and supporting documentation will be accessible online, and assistance will be available via phone and email for those requiring support. For cases requiring further review, a streamlined mail-in process will allow citizens to submit written statements and evidence without appearing in person.

However, officials are keen to stress that in-person hearings will not be eliminated entirely. "We recognize that some cases necessitate a more thorough review and direct interaction," explains Wilmoth. "In-person hearings will remain available for individuals who prefer that option or whose cases require it - for example, cases involving serious safety concerns or complex legal arguments." The court anticipates that the vast majority of routine traffic violations will be handled through the new digital and mail-in channels, freeing up court resources for these more complex matters.

The rollout of the new system will be phased, ensuring a smooth transition for both the court and the public. The initial phase, expected to launch within the next few weeks, will focus on implementing the online payment and dispute resolution portal. Subsequent phases will introduce the refined mail-in submission process and expand the scope of eligible ticket types.

The county has invested in enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive personal and financial information submitted through the online portal. They've also established a dedicated support team to address citizen inquiries and technical issues. Concerns have been raised by some regarding equitable access to the digital system, particularly for residents with limited internet access or technological proficiency. The county acknowledges these concerns and is partnering with local libraries and community organizations to provide public computer access and digital literacy training.

This shift in Pierce County mirrors a growing trend across the nation as courts modernize their procedures in the wake of the pandemic. Many jurisdictions are exploring similar digital solutions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance access to justice. Experts predict that this will become the norm, rather than the exception, in the years to come. The success of the Pierce County initiative will likely serve as a model for other counties considering similar reforms. Further updates and detailed information about the new traffic ticket handling system will be available on the Pierce County District Court website in the coming weeks.