Lawyers That Help Defend Tickets From The NTTA

Last Updated on June 19, 2025 by Beltz Law Group

Attorneys That Defend Tickets From The NTTA: Navigating Your Options

The North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) holds significant power in collecting unpaid tolls, and ignoring their notices can lead to serious consequences, including criminal charges, warrants, and vehicle registration blocks. At The Beltz Law Group, we understand the complexities of these cases and daily assist individuals facing NTTA tickets. This article aims to shed light on the process and equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

If you’ve received an NTTA ticket and wish to discuss your case, please contact our experienced NTTA ticket lawyers at 214-321-4105.

Understanding the Criminal Charge: Failure to Pay Toll

It’s crucial to recognize that a “Failure to Pay Tollway” ticket is more than just an unpaid bill; it is a Class C misdemeanor in Texas. This criminal charge is not solely based on the initial toll run but arises when the toll remains unpaid after the NTTA has made multiple attempts to collect.

The NTTA is legally required to prove in court that they sent at least three separate invoices to the registered owner of the vehicle. It’s important to note that they don’t need to prove the registered owner was the driver at the time of the toll violation, only that the invoices were sent and remained unpaid after these three attempts.

If the NTTA cannot provide evidence of sending these required invoices, the case should be dismissed as a matter of law. This highlights the importance of scrutinizing all mail you receive from the NTTA. While it is the NTTA’s burden to establish that the invoices were sent, if you haven’t kept your records, your attorney can request this documentation during the discovery process of your case.

Consequences of Ignoring NTTA Tickets

Neglecting an NTTA ticket can lead to a cascade of problems, including:

• Escalating Fees: Beyond the original toll, significant administrative fees can quickly accrue, making the total amount owed much higher than the initial toll.
• Warrants for Arrest: As a Class C misdemeanor, ignoring a “Failure to Pay Tollway” citation can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest. This means you could be pulled over and detained at any time.
• Vehicle Registration Block (Scofflaw Status): If you accumulate 100 or more unpaid tolls within a 12-month period and have received at least two notices of nonpayment, the NTTA can declare you a “habitual violator” or “scofflaw.” This designation allows them to block your vehicle’s registration renewal with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles until all outstanding tolls and associated fees are paid or a payment plan is established.
• Driver’s License Hold (OmniBase Program): An unaddressed warrant for a Class C misdemeanor, including a “Failure to Pay Tollway” ticket, can trigger an OmniBase hold on your driver’s license. This prevents you from renewing your license until the underlying case is resolved.

Why You Need Lawyers That Defend Tickets For Failure To Pay Tollway

The laws governing NTTA tickets are intricate, and navigating them alone can be overwhelming. Many individuals, and even some legal professionals, underestimate the complexities involved. This is why it’s highly advisable to at least consult with an attorney specializing in NTTA tickets.

An experienced NTTA ticket lawyer can:

• Enter an Appearance: Promptly file a “not guilty” plea on your behalf, protecting your rights and often preventing warrants from being issued or getting existing warrants lifted.
• Negotiate with the NTTA: Engage directly with the NTTA to review invoices, dispute inaccurate charges, and negotiate a reduced restitution amount, often significantly lowering the total fees owed.
• Address the Criminal Citation: Work towards a dismissal or deferred disposition of the criminal misdemeanor citation to keep it off your driving record.
• Lift Vehicle Registration Blocks: Guide you through the process of clearing a “scofflaw” status and removing any registration blocks, allowing you to legally renew your vehicle’s registration.
• Provide Expert Guidance: Explain your legal options, the potential outcomes, and the best strategy for your specific case.

Don’t let an NTTA ticket spiral out of control. Taking prompt and informed action with the guidance of a skilled attorney can make the difference between a successful resolution and a costly, frustrating ordeal. To talk to an attorney that defends NTTA tickets for failure to pay tollway, call The Beltz Law Group today at 214-321-4105.