From staff reports

news@joplinglobe.com

People who owe unpaid tickets or who skipped an appearance in Joplin Municipal Court will get another chance to make good on it when the court offers its second Fresh Start session next month.

The session to allow people to clear outstanding warrants is set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 12, at the First United Methodist Church, 501 W. Fourth St.

“The city understands that someone may have missed a court date or let a ticket lapse,” said Cindy Supiran, the court administrator, in a written statement. “By taking part in this program, citizens can avoid the penalties that often accompany an outstanding warrant, including facing arrest, paying extra court fees or paying extra money to a bondsman.”

At a similar session in April — the first time the court held the program — 125 people cleared outstanding cases, Supiran said.

“Unfortunately, not everyone who was eligible to participate knew about the event or was able to attend that date,” she noted. “We want to provide the public another opportunity to make a fresh start.”

She said the court chose to move to a church to hold the session because it seemed less threatening than a courtroom.

The court will waive the fee for missing court for those who appear, Supiran said.

People who did not appear because of a personal problem can get information about services available to them such as educational opportunities, children’s and family services and other programs at the session.

Check the list

Those who want to find out if they have an outstanding warrant may call (417) 623-3131, ext. 478.