How to Fight a Wrongful Speeding Ticket in Indiana

In Indiana, drivers can fight speeding tickets by going to court.

The last thing you want to see in your rear-view mirror are the flashing lights of a police cruiser. If the officer gives you a ticket for speeding, you have two legal options--you can pay it or you can fight it. In the state of Indiana, the process to contest a speeding ticket can be a lengthy one, and it could get expensive. But, depending on how fast the officer says you were going, it might be worth it to attempt to avoid the extra points on your license.

Things You'll Need

• Speeding ticket
• Attorney
• Witnesses

Instructions

1. Plan to go to court. If you plan to contest your speeding ticket, you will need to appear in court on the date listed on your ticket. The address of the court will also be on the speeding ticket. You will need to plead either not guilty or no contest, which means you are not admitting guilt and will give your version of events to the judge. At this time, you will receive a date for your hearing. If you cannot make it to the court on the initial date listed on your ticket, you must call the number on your ticket at least five days in advance.

2. Hire an attorney. This is not mandatory, but if you desire, you can get legal representation. No matter what the outcome of the hearing, you will be responsible for the attorney fees. If your case has any out-of-the-ordinary issues like a faulty speedometer, this is a step you should consider.

3. Build your case. You will need to gather supporting evidence for your version of events, including witnesses. If you are claiming equipment failure, you will need to bring copies of any paperwork regarding the faulty mechanism.

4. Go to court. On the assigned day, you will need to bring your evidence, witnesses and your attorney, if you choose to hire one, to the courthouse. The prosecutor will present evidence and call witnesses, and then it will be your turn. Following your case, the judge will make a ruling, which is final.

Tips & Warnings

• In Indiana, the prosecutor only needs to show guilt by a preponderance of the evidence that you were speeding. This is easier to prove than the normal court standard of guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

References

• The Unofficial DMV Guide: Paying Your Traffic Ticket
• Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles: Driver's Manual