Fine Contestation Letter
Contesting a fixed-rate fine is a right recognised by the Code de procedure penale (French Code of Criminal Procedure). Article 529-2 allows the offender to file a request for exemption with the Officier du ministere public (public prosecutor's officer) within 45 days of the notice of contravention being sent, without first paying the fine. Article 529-10, for its part, opens a route for a claim to the same officer within 30 days of the increased fixed-rate payment notice. A clear, detailed letter accompanied by supporting documents suited to the ground invoked maximises the chances of obtaining an exemption or a referral to a hearing. This form is in English, but the document is generated in French, ready to sign and use in France.
Note: the questionnaire is in English; the generated document is in French.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the deadline to contest a fixed-rate fine?
Under article 529-2 of the Code de procedure penale (French Code of Criminal Procedure), you have 45 days from the sending of the notice of contravention to submit a request for exemption to the Officier du ministere public (public prosecutor's officer), without paying the fine. After this deadline, the fine is increased and you may then file a claim within 30 days of the increased fixed-rate payment notice (art. 529-10).
Do I have to pay the fine before contesting it?
No, if you contest within the initial 45-day period: payment amounts to an admission of the offence and extinguishes your right to a request for exemption. However, if the fine is already increased and you file a claim, prior payment is not required either, but the Officier du ministere public (public prosecutor's officer) may ask for it as a guarantee.
Which documents should I enclose with my contestation letter?
Supporting documents vary according to the ground: a photocopy of the certificat de cession (transfer certificate, if the vehicle was sold), a theft declaration or a copy of the complaint, a third party's driving licence if you were not the driver, or any document proving a factual error (photo, toll ticket, mileage record). Enclosing a copy of the notice of contravention is essential in all cases.
What happens if the Officier du ministere public rejects my request?
In the event of rejection or no reply within three months, your file is forwarded to the competent tribunal de police (police court) or local court. You will then be summoned to a hearing where you can defend your contestation before a judge, with the option of being assisted by a lawyer.
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