I've defended numerous tickets for tractor trailer drivers that used to work for me (they're the worst cuz they're big targets with deep corporate pockets...and the one's my company hired were right outta Communist block countries where it's a free-for-all).
Watching most court rooms in NY, PA and NJ I noticed that everyone in the USA "HAS" to go to court. The police officer has given you a Summons To Appear and if you don't respond/appear in court, then you are found guilty "in absentia" and they put out a warrant for your arrest. So suck it in and go to court. It's a friggen joke because the town get's every $$ - they don't usually care about the points and slap on the wrist...they just want the $$. Usually when you appear in court to respond to the Summons (ie: plead guilty or not-guilty), if you plead not-guilty, they give you a court date in the future. If you plead guilty, then they ask for your money and it goes on your record.
That said, on a first offence is was common practice for the court to permit or allow traffic offenders to go to traffic school. I think it's a couple of hours in a classroom and then the ticket is either dropped to something like a parking ticket - sometimes a very expensive parking ticket ($100 for mine in NY
) But then you don't lose demerit points, and there's no impact to your insurance, etc. Consider it your first and last "get outta jail free" card.
I recommend that you go to court and discuss the matter (before court starts) with either the charging police officer...or the prosecutor. Tell them it's a first offence and that you'd be open to going to traffic school for a reduced/eliminated charge (they'll know because they may pull your drivers record/abstract).
If you're a student (and can bring some proof), they might even reduce the charge. Play the pauper card. It works. Dress appropriately...leave the jeans and t-shirt at home. Show the Court some respect and you'll be surprise how they return the favour. Watch how the Prosecutor speaks to the judge. Use the same terms he/she uses. If they refer to the judge as "your Worship" or "your Honour", then do the same.
GL
