How to Fight a Jaywalking Ticket

Jaywalking laws were passed to protect pedestrians from accidents at intersections. As with any ticket, you have the right to appeal the penalty before a judge. Use these steps to learn more about jaywalking laws and how to fight that ticket in court.

Instructions

1. Call the court about your ticket and ask for a court date, if one was not already assigned on your citation. If you are unfamiliar with the traffic court process, now would be the time to ask questions.

2. Dress respectably for court. Never wear a hat into a courtroom and always dress appropriately in business casual-type attire. It can make a better impression on the court and lends you a credibility.

3. Bring your witnesses, if you have any, and any other evidence that supports your claim. Evidence might include a copy of the traffic cam tape at the particular intersection in question.

4. Be honest when speaking to the judge. Tell him if there was a misunderstanding about the jaywalking laws. Inform the court if you have a disability or some other valid reason for jaywalking.

5. Learn the law. There have been cases won because the officer at the scene didn't know or understant the local jaywalking laws.

6. Settle. Offer to pay half the fine and see how the judge responds. This often works, provided you don't have a past history of jaywalking or traffic violations.

Tips & Warnings

• Never disrespect the judge or judicial system. Slander and bad-mouthing will only get you in more trouble and will not help your case.

• Many jaywalking cases are going to be the citizen's word against the police officer's word. The judge often sides with the officer.