How to Amend a Speeding Ticket
It's much harder to find someone who hasn't ever received a speeding ticket than to find someone who has. Don't fret if you find yourself with one, because there generally are ways of getting your ticket amended. The first decision you need to make is whether you are going to hire an attorney or represent yourself during your court appearance.
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Instructions
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Hiring an Attorney
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Contact an attorney who specializes in speeding offenses. A day or two after your charge, you will probably get a few letters from local attorneys who will ask to represent you, so go with the one you trust the most. You can also use the American Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Directory (see Resources below for link), where you'll be able to find a local attorney who is best-suited to handle your case.
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Find out what your attorney can do for you. One option is that he will try to get your case reduced to a nonmoving violation, which will generally eliminate the risk of getting points put on your license and insurance. Your attorney may also find holes or inconsistencies in the prosecution's evidence that will be dealt with during your court appearance. The price may be a little steep, but it will be nothing compared with your insurance rates if you are found guilty.
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Decide whether you want your attorney to come with you on your court date or if you should let him handle it before your appearance. This will usually depend on the severity of the charges and how much you want to contest the prosecution.
Acting On Your Own
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Sign up for driving school before your court date. Local government offices usually offer these a few times a month, but there are many online classes that are always available. They are generally eight hours, and you'll get a certificate upon completion. Showing up to court with this certificate will better your chances of getting an amendment.
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Get a Prayer for Judgement (available only in North Carolina and South Carolina) on the day of your court appearance if you opt not to go with driving school. Prayer for Judgement is basically a plea where neither your guilt nor innocence is declared. However, for a set time period set under the judge's discretion, you must not commit any other offense. If you do, you will be charged with both offenses.
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Enter a plea bargain either before or during your initial court date, giving you a couple of options. You can plead guilty and accept the citation and insurance increase, or you can plead not guilty and hope that the prosecution does not have sufficient enough evidence against you to prove otherwise. The results of pleading can range from paying the maximum fine to attending driving school and getting your charges reduced.
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Tips & Warnings
Depending on the circumstances (whether it is your first offense, how fast you were speeding, where you were), your charges will more than likely be reduced during your court appearance. How much you pay and how many points you get on your licence and insurance all depend on the judge's decision.
Even if you decide to represent yourself in court, it's still a good idea to talk to an attorney beforehand and hear any suggestions she may have.
