Traffic School

[Just-in]

13 months ago I got a ticket for a california stop. I did not contest it because I know I did it. Outskirts of Hayward, no one on the road I began to come to a stop but didn't completely. Paid the ticket went to school.

Recieved a speeding ticket last night. Outskirts of tracy almost to hwy 4 headed fishing. I never speed on that road last night I must have caught tunnel vison between the excitement of getting out of the bay area for the first time in months. Can I request traffic school in court since I'm not eligible under the 18 month rule? How about paying the fine in segments? On a tow truck drivers salary I don't know how hard it will hit. I don't at all expect a reduction in fine as bad as our system seems to be hurting or the office not to show and it get thrown out my luck is never that good.

Thanks

[mej16489]

I think that a judge can still give you the option of traffic school, but as you've noted a clerk cannot allow it if you've been within 18 months.

Basically at this point it sounds like your options are to pay it and take the points or to 'throw yourself at the mercy of the court' explaining the above about your financial hardship.

I haven't been in traffic court for nearly 20 years, but I don't imagine things have changed much. Judges then had quite allot of control over how they handled infractions, I'm not sure if that's still the case or not.

[drdanno84]

You should plead not guilty and have achance of getting the citation dismissed if the officer doesn't show up. If the judge grants you traffic school it will probably be 12 hrs, been there done that.

[Just-in]

if i plead not guilty and he shows then what.

[TRICKSTER]

If you decide to plea guilty. most courts will set up a payment plan or offer community service in lieu of paying the fine. Check with the court.

[Just-in]

Can I plea guilty and ask for traffic school?

[Just-in]

Do cops get paid to go to court. If so I have a hard time swallowing he won't show up and I have nothing to say in my defense if he does. Saying that I didn't notice my speed until I saw brake lights on the car I just passed and someone making a three point turn on a two lane highway with no turn offs isn't a good defense.

[Ron-Solo]

Yes, they get paid to go to court. If on duty, it is regular time, if off duty, it is usually time and a half.