LEWISTON — The Maine Judicial Branch is converting its paper-based violations bureau to a digital system that will allow users to look up their cases online and pay or take other action on their tickets, 24 hours a day, any day of the week.
The system will also allow people to search the violations database.
The e-filing system, called Odyssey, is the first phase of the state courts’ new case management and e-filing system, and it will go live Monday, Oct. 29, according to a news release from Elaine Clark, director of communications for the Judicial Branch.
In the current paper system, contesting a ticket or asking for a continuance (postponement) must be done by mail or in person at the violations bureau’s customer service window. With Odyssey, people will be able to electronically request a trial, file motions and upload insurance certificates and vehicle registrations or other documentation.
The new e-filing option known as “Guide and File” will allow all of these tasks to be done online. According to the release, the system will guide users through a series of questions to produce necessary paperwork.
For those who prefer to file paper documents, people can still file answers, motions and documents by mail and in person at the Lewiston District Court.
A new online payment service to pay traffic fines using a debit or credit card will also be available. People had been able to pay traffic fines online or by phone through “PayTixx,” but that system was discontinued Oct. 17. Online payments will be accepted beginning Oct. 29.
The violations bureau is currently closed and will remain closed until the digital launch Monday. Phone calls are being answered during limited hours, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., until then. Scheduled court dates have proceeded without interruption.
Until Odyssey goes live, fines may be paid in person only, with cash, certified or cashiers’ checks, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the violations bureau window of the Lewiston District Court. Credit or debit card payments will not be allowed.
People whose licenses have been suspended and who have completed payment will receive documentation to provide to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Reinstatement must be completed by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, as usual.
For more information on Odyssey, e-filing and fine payment options, visit: http://www.courts.maine.gov/ecourts/.
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