What general information is required to be on a citation?

• A. Written notice of the time and place the person must appear before a magistrate, the name and address of the person charged, and the offense charged
• B. The officer’s rank and years of service
• C. The weather conditions at the time of offense and the road type
• D. The defendant's social security number and date of birth

Answer: (A)

The essential information on a citation is the notice of when and where the person must appear before a magistrate, the name and address of the person charged, and the offense charged. This combination ensures the accused knows exactly when to show up for the arraignment, who is responsible for the charge, and what specific charge they face. The officer’s rank and years of service don’t affect the notice or the charge itself, so they aren’t part of what a citation must convey. Weather conditions at the time and road type aren’t relevant to identifying the charged person or the offense. The defendant’s social security number and date of birth are sensitive details that aren’t necessary for the citation’s purpose. Focusing on the appearance notice, proper identification, and the specific offense supports proper notice and court processing.