What is a ticket or a violation of a minor law within a city or state called?

The term that describes a ticket or a violation of a minor law within a city or state is "citation." In legal terms, a citation is an official notice issued by law enforcement when an individual has breached a municipal ordinance or a minor statute, typically resulting in a fine or a requirement to appear in court.

Citations are generally associated with less serious offenses, distinguishing them from more severe legal actions like indictments, which pertain to serious criminal charges resulting from a grand jury decision. Furthermore, while the term "infraction" refers to a breach of law that is usually punishable by a ticket or fine, it is a broader category that can encompass citations. Thus, "citation" specifically refers to the act of issuing that violation notice.

The use of "warning" implies a more informal admonition without a penalty, lacking the formal legal implications that come with a citation. Understanding these nuances helps clarify the appropriate context and use of each term in discussions related to law enforcement and legal proceedings.