If you received a property code violation penalty or fine, you can choose to request a hearing with a judge from the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication (BAA). This page has tips on how to get ready for your hearing and information about what to expect.
Before your hearing, you may also want to look at your case file. To review your file, call us at 315-448-8320 to set up a time.
You don’t have to bring anyone to your hearing. But you may choose to if you need their help or they can support your case.
Witnesses
If other people can support your case, ask them to come as witnesses so they can talk about what they saw.
Lawyer
You don’t need to have a lawyer (attorney), but you can choose to hire one. If you want them to come to the hearing, they need to fill out a Notice of Appearance form and give it to BAA before the hearing.
Interpreter
If you are Deaf or have trouble speaking or understanding English, we can provide an interpreter. You need to request an interpreter before your hearing.
Representative
In most cases, people go to their own hearings. But you can also choose to have someone represent you during your hearing instead. Ask your representative to fill out the correct form:
- *Insert Authorization – Individual Affidavit to be represented by Property Manager pdf
- *Insert Authorization – LLC Affidavit to be represented by Property Manager pdf
- *Insert Authorization – Corporation Affidavit to be represented by Property Manager pdf
You can reschedule your hearing up to 24 hours (1 day) before your hearing. You’re allowed to reschedule your hearing 2 times.
To reschedule your hearing, fill out this form [*Insert Adjournment Request pdf].
If you change your mind and want to cancel your hearing, you can just pay the penalty or fine instead [link to pay or appeal a violation page].
If you do, you will be found guilty automatically. This is called a default decision. You will have to pay the fine and additional fees.
To avoid more fees, you need to pay the fine listed on your written default decision right away.
You also have the right to fill out a Stay of Default form. This means you want to:
- Give a reason for why your missed the hearing
- Request a new hearing
If your request is accepted, you will get a new hearing and won’t have to pay the fine right away.
Fill out a Stay of Default form [pdf].
You’ll get a chance to speak and present your evidence. The judge will ask you and any witnesses questions.
At the end of your hearing, the judge will make a decision based on the evidence and the law. You may get a written decision at the end of the hearing. If you don’t, you will get a written decision by mail within x days.
If your fine is dismissed, you don’t have to pay or do anything. You’re all set.
If your fine is upheld, you will have to pay. There may be additional fees on top of the original amount. To pay, follow the directions on your written decision.
You have 30 days to pay the fine. You can’t get extra time. If you don’t pay your fine or penalty, the City may add more fees and start a collections process.
If you don’t agree with the judge’s decision, you can request an appeal. This means that BAA will take a second look at your case. Learn how to file an appeal.
Questions about property code violations or hearings?
We can help. Contact the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication (BAA) at 315-448-8320 or baa@syrgov.net.