Frequently Asked Questions

Questions

General Questions

  1. Where is the Boone County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and what are the office hours?
  2. I need legal advice, may I speak to a prosecuting attorney?

Traffic Division Questions

  1. I received a ticket for failure to maintain financial responsibility (no insurance) and I have insurance. What do I need to do?
  2. Can I pay out of court?
  3. Where do I go to pay my ticket out of court?
  4. How can I get my court date continued?

Victim Services Questions

  1. How are filing decisions made?
  2. What if someone threatens me to drop the charges?
  3. What if the defense attorney or someone from that office contacts me about the case?
  4. How long will it take before the case is resolved?
  5. Should I be concerned if months pass without hearing from the court or the prosecuting attorney’s office?
  6. Can I be compensated for losses I have suffered as a victim of crime?

Answers


1. Where is the Boone County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and what are the office hours?

The main office for the Boone County Prosecuting Attorney is located in the Boone County Courthouse. The Family Support Division is located at 605 E. Walnut Street. Get directions from your location.

Boone County Prosecuting Attorney

705 E. Walnut St., 4th Floor
Columbia, MO 65201-4485

Phone: (573) 886-4100
Office Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday

Boone County Prosecuting Attorney
Family Support Division

605 E. Walnut St., Ste. B
Columbia, MO 65201-4460

Phone: (573) 886-4127
Fax: (573) 886-4139
Office Hours: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
Office closed during the noon hour.

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2. I need legal advice, may I speak to a prosecuting attorney?

The Boone County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office cannot provide legal advice. You may contact a private attorney or for free legal counsel you may contact Mid-Missouri Legal Services.

Mid-Missouri Legal Services

1201 W. Broadway
Columbia, MO 65203

Phone: (573) 442-0116

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3. I received a ticket for failure to maintain financial responsibility (no insurance) and I have insurance. What do I need to do?

You may mail, email, or fax proof of your insurance to the attention of the Traffic Division of the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office. Your fax should include your agent's name and telephone number, a copy of your ticket (or the ticket number), and a telephone number where you can be reached.

By Mail: Prosecuting Attorney
Attention: TRAFFIC
705 E. Walnut St.
Columbia, MO 65201-4485

By Email: pa@boonecountymo.org

By Phone: (573) 886-4100 (Ask for Traffic Assistant)

By Fax: (573) 886-4148, Attention: TRAFFIC

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4. Can I pay out of court?

For tickets having a court date for appearance, please contact the Traffic Division of the Boone County Circuit Clerk at (573) 886-4027

For tickets with "30 days" or "FCC" written in the court date field, please contact the Fine Collection Center at (877) 866-3926.

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5. Where do I go to pay my ticket out of court?

The Traffic Division of the Boone County Circuit Clerk’s Office is located in the Boone County Courthouse at:

705 E. Walnut St.
Columbia, MO 65201-4485

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6. How can I get my court date continued?

Please contact the Traffic Division of the Boone County Circuit Clerk’s Office at (573) 886-4027.

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7. How are filing decisions made?

First, the crime needs to be reported to law enforcement. Law enforcement officers will investigate the case and if they feel there is sufficient evidence they will send the investigative materials to our office. The prosecutor assigned to the case will then review the investigative materials and determine whether or not to file charges.

If you have questions about the status of your case, please call 573-886-4100 and a crime victim advocate will answer your questions.

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8. What if someone threatens me to drop the charges?

If anyone has threatened you in connection with the criminal case or pressured you to drop charges, contact law enforcement immediately. In addition, you should contact the prosecuting attorney’s office to provide this information. The individual responsible for such conduct could possibly be charged with additional crimes including victim/witness tampering.

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9. What if the defense attorney or someone from that office contacts me about the case?

An attorney who represents the defendant or an investigator working on behalf of the defendant may attempt to discuss the case with you. You may speak with them if you choose, however, you may also choose to refuse to speak with them or request that an attorney from the prosecuting attorney's office be present during any discussion.

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10. How long will it take before the case is resolved?

Misdemeanor cases will often take months to resolve and felony cases might take up to a year or more to resolve.

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11. Should I be concerned if months pass without hearing from the court or the prosecuting attorney’s office?

Given the large number of pending criminal cases, it may not be possible to keep you informed of every court date. Please realize that we are continuing to work on your case even if you haven't heard from us. Please do not hesitate to contact the Victim Response Team or the prosecutor assigned to your case if you have any questions or concerns.

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12. Can I be compensated for losses I have suffered as a victim of crime?

Your insurance company may provide coverage for your personal injury or property loss due to a crime. Also, the court may order the defendant to pay restitution to compensate you for your injuries, damages, or loss. In some circumstances it may not be possible to collect restitution. The Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund may cover certain out of pocket losses as a result of personal injury or death. You may also consider filing a civil lawsuit to recover damages.

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