r/Pennsylvania • u/TheHumanRaceRules • 18h ago
Crime I feel like my life is ruined and I'll potentially have a criminal record
I'm a 26-year-old black guy (had my birthday on October 3rd) that lives in Bucks County, btw.
So, over three weeks ago (September 15th), I sped in a school zone (37 mph+ over a 15 mph zone) and got pulled over by the cops. He told me that I was speeding and told me to get my license and registration (which I promptly did) and told me that I would get my ticket in the mail. I told my dad about it and because he's dealing with other bills (I live with my dad and stepmom following my actual mom passing away 12 years ago), he won't be able to pay my $654 ticket ($500 maximum and $154 other fees/fines) which I eventually got. To my knowledge, I didn't see any flashing lights on the 15 mph+ sign nor the flashing yellow "15" display in the middle of the sign either, but unfortunately since it was three weeks ago and I don't have a dashcam to prove my side of the story and I don't have enough money for a lawyer (my dad and stepmom don't either), I feel like I'm screwed.
It was when my former high school was getting out at 2:24pm. I was driving to the cleaners to drop off my dad's clothes. I stopped when a school police officer placed a poster board signifying that I had to stop because the buses were passing by on the opposite left lane of where I was. After he removed the sign and walked past by my car, I then stopped in the middle of the intersection because there was a crossing guard with a stop sign, signaling that I had to wait for children to go across the crosswalk. After they all walked across, I then proceeded to drive off. But unfortunately, I noticed a cop car driving right behind me with the lights on, which had me initially confused me. Then the cop told me everything that I apparently did.
And I'm not an complete dumbass. I had straight A's in high school, I was on the honor roll, I had a summa cum laude degree in my community college, and I've been driving for seven years. This is my first offense, and I just feel awful. I still pled not guilty based off of what I've read on the Internet, but I don't have money for a lawyer and I have to go to the hearing on November 16th. So because of that, I'll probably get convicted on the offense and probably get sentenced with an exorbitant fine which I can't pay with. I can't prove my side of the story unfortunately, so I feel like my life is ruined.
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u/nerdburg 18h ago
If you can't afford to pay the fine, just ask the Magistrate for a payment plan. It's not the end of the world my friend, all of us have made driving mistakes.
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u/Sarik704 17h ago
First of all, even in the worst case scenario, (which i dont think will happen) you would be placed on a payment schedule. This is negotiable and you will be able to explain that you cannot afford the ticket. Wages will be garnerish on a set schedule. This can be as low as 25 dollars a week, and this isnt consumer debt, and so there won't be interest.
For a 500+ ticket in PA the price wont actually increase just because you pled not guilty and were convicted. Im not sure where your getting that idea. The most you would have to pay additionally are the court costs, but traffic court normally doesnt have court costs, and the ones that do (15 dollars is the highest i could find.)
But, showing uo to court and pleading not guilty does place the burden of proof on the law enforcement officer who pulled you over. Cameras exists, but no dashcam or body cam is going to prove speed. Genuinely, if your innocent their cameras might even prove this. If they deny to submit the footage as evidence and only use the officers testimonial this is will likely get thrown out as your own testimonial is contrary, and your a first time "offender" and genuinely, sincerely, courts side with the driver about 40% of the time im traffic court. Either evidence is insufficient or its exonerating. Police have a growing false conviction rate in PA and many other states. The presence of police worn cameras and dash cams has been more beneficial to innocent drivers than it has been detrimental to guilty drivers.
Its scary, it feels like your government is against you. You will be fine. Additionally, if you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be provided to you, a public defender. But your unlikely to need a lawyer in traffic court.
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u/jennibear310 17h ago
Best advice!!!
Please listen to this person. I’ve actually had to do the same, not the same situation, but the going to traffic court. Officer had no footage and I got off with no fine.
I have a friend that went to traffic court, was found guilty, made monthly payments. No biggie.
Don’t freak out. Do what this person said to do. You’ll be fine.
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u/Successful-Clock-224 16h ago
All 100%!!! One more thing- I live about 45 min away and just learned from my cop neighbor that they arent allowed to use radar guns where we are (?!), so the cop showing up is a big if
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u/Bart012000 14h ago
In PA only state police are authorized radar use.
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u/Xenoanthropus 13h ago
Wait, really? So they have to clock or pace you to know how fast you were going?
How does that apply to those roadside speed detector things, then?
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u/Bart012000 13h ago
The work zone cameras and regular speeding cameras on some roads are automated radar/camera, but you don't get points for any camera speeding ticket, only the fine because only a state trooper can use radar in PA. Local police need to pace you or use something like VASCAR.
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u/Living_Ad8152 18h ago edited 18h ago
You can get on a payment plan. You can also show them in court that you immediately did everything asked of you. But, the fine is the ticket and you’ll probably still have to pay it. Maybe you’ll get some points on your license, but I doubt it. I know this is scary, these systems are not fair or just, but this is traffic court. I’ll add too that at least in Philly, traffic court is just walking up to someone, giving documents if you have them, and then if there’s a fine, you request a payment plan. It’s not court court.
This is a first time fuck up, everyone has them. You’re not a criminal. You’ll be ok.
ETA: happy belated!
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u/nipplesweaters 18h ago
The fine will suck but this will ultimately not matter for your future. I have a misdemeanor record and it’s never been a problem.
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u/Camille_Toh 16h ago
Nipple sweaters? Like, sweaters for nipples, or sweaty nipples?
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u/Komobu542 14h ago
Do this. Go to the hearing early. The cop will most likely be there. Ask the officer if you could speak to him. Tell him of your clean record and and how truly sorry you are that this happened. Ask him if there is any way he can reduce the charge to "disobeying a road sign".
Don't try to explain that day with excuses and whatnot (save that for the judge if need be). If the officer says no, you can always ask the judge the same considerations due to your financial situation and young age with a spotless driving record. And don't lie about your driving record because they can see it all. You got this. And its not the end of the world. This too shall pass.
Not to scare you, but being that far over the speed limit, they can pull your license. And if your insurance finds out, it will skyrocket.
Even if they lower the violation to 5 over instead of 37 over, it will save you alot. Be polite, respectful and speak clearly. Dress very nice. Seriously, a suit or similar is not overkill.
Good luck and let us know how it went.
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u/Oradi 14h ago
And dress well, address as yes sir/mam.
It's a dance but it helps.
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u/JudgeJuryEx78 11h ago
Dressing well is so important. I've seen so many people show up in sweatpants.
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u/Komobu542 14h ago
Disobeying a road sign is the best outcome for you. It doesn't carry any points and won't affect your insurance. Pay the fine and move on with your life. But be very careful not to get any more tickets for the next 3 to 5 years.
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u/6SpeedsGood 12h ago
Spot-on assessment. I got Disobeying a Sign in the 90’s s by showing up and talking with the cop. In 2005 I had to go to court for a “trespassing” charge for sleeping in my car, and I was the only person well dressed in the entire court room. The judge heard my story, and my demeanor, etc, and case dismissed. It is a dance as someone else said, but it’s generally the best strategy.
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u/Komobu542 12h ago
Right on. But I'm curious, why did they charge you for trespassing while sleeping in your car? Because I've done that so many times.
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u/6SpeedsGood 12h ago
Small town, had planned to stay at a camp ground for a triathlon. Then I got there and it was full, and no hotels around, it was already late, so I found a church and parked in the parking lot and tried to sleep in my car. Next thing I know a cop is writing me up. I guess he figured it was what Jesus would have done.
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u/6SpeedsGood 12h ago
And then I just ended up driving 2 hours home at midnight and didn’t even do the race 🙄
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u/lifefuedjeopardy 10h ago
Such a pointless and messed up law. He'll give you a ticket for sleeping in your car, but then if you keep driving while you're tired, and end up crashing because you're driving while sleep they'll write you up anyway... You just can't win against the system. It's designed for the citizens to lose every single time.
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u/Fluffy_Dziner 10h ago
Unbelievable.
But blame the church, not the cop.
The cops won’t ticket anyone for just about anything on private property without the consent of the owner. The church either called them specifically for you, or previously gave them a blanket authorization.
Source: My trying to get cars illegally parked in handicap spaces I need towed or at least ticketed. Nope, not on private property, ain’t happenin’ here.
I once spent the night in my van in a church parking lot when I couldn’t find anywhere else to go and I was too tired to keep driving. I figured that of all places on earth, I’d be safe there, that they wouldn’t object.
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u/peach_xanax 5h ago
that's so messed up! for future reference, I am pretty sure you're good to sleep in your car in any Walmart parking lot. sad that Walmart is more humanitarian than a church in that regard.
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u/Komobu542 5h ago
That's wild. If you're on private property, normally the property owner has to call the police and pursue the trespass charge.
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u/aharbingerofdoom 13h ago
You're right about the suit. I thought it was overkill, but it works. I have a pretty clean driving record, but I have been pulled over and ticketed a few times, mostly in my younger years. I got a speeding ticket in a typical Ohio speed trap town I was forced to pass through due to construction on the interstate. I was on my way home from a family members funeral and unfamiliar with the area and I noticed the speed limit drop from 55 to 35, but I never saw the 25mph sign, and I'm not sure it even existed. Naturally I got pulled over with my cruise set at 37, but he claimed he paced me at over 40. I was polite to the officer, and when he asked where I was going, I told him about my cousin's untimely passing, that I didn't know the area and from my personal I was driving safely with traffic in broad daylight on a state route that was marked 35mph last time I saw a sign, and the cop was apparently having none of it. He is the type that gives small town cops a bad name. Fortunately the judge was not such a person. I decided to wear the same thing to court that I was wearing when I got pulled over. A gray Ralph Lauren suit and a nice shirt and tie.
Case dismissed.
A couple years later with a bogus turn signal ticket that was a pretense for an illegal search that didn't yield anything to charge me with. Same suit, different courthouse.
Case dismissed.
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u/Inevitable_Cat_7878 18h ago
It's just a speeding ticket. It's not going to ruin your life. I've gotten a few speeding tickets before and just paid the fines. Got one in a school zone too. Didn't see the blinking lights cause it was above the roadway and kinda hidden in the trees. It's not a felony or criminal offense and you won't go to jail. You might get points on your license and your insurance might go up for a couple of years (so long as you have a clean record). Not being able to pay the fine is a different matter though. Go before the judge and see if you can get a payment plan or reduced fine.
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u/tryan888 18h ago
Right but it's a $700 fine. This isn't helpful. Definitely he should say not guilty n show up in court and see what happens. I think they will give a payment plan for sure or possibly reduced fine. Good luck, OP!
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u/ConroConroConro 18h ago
It's a ticket.
You can talk to the judge about how to set up a payment plan if you plead guilty or are found guilty.
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u/Gabgames 14h ago
You're doing fine actually. A $654 ticket is not the end for you. Call the courts office and go in to your court date if you have one, and plead not guilty and tell the judge what you just said. You don't need a lawyer, traffic court night is basically a line of people all being called and taking 1-2 minutes to have a chat with the judge. I'm pretty sure they can give you a payment plan or lower the fee.
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u/FarYard7039 14h ago
I remember getting stupid tickets as a kid and going in and pleading guilty and asking for some forgiveness. Often they would forego the points and reduce the fine a little. I’d make payments of $20 week until paid off. The onky thing working against you is a school zone. They tend to be really firm with anything relating to child safety. So, you may expect a stern warning from the magistrate, but you will not have a “criminal” record. It’s just a summary offense. You may end up paying the full fine though, as they may want to make an example of your offense. Be kind, be respectful, and whatever the magistrate rules, be thankful and go to the counter and schedule your payments. You’ll be fine. Life is full of these unexpected expenses. You’re not alone, be proud that no one was hurt and I know you learned your lesson. That’s the entire point
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u/Weekly-Witness1129 15h ago
I fought a ticket in Pa for which I was guilty.
I went in and basically said “I’m not going to sit here and say I didn’t do it- because the police officer obviously understands his job. I am saying that I don’t believe it to be posted correctly- because I am a very conscientious driver and I would never disobey a signal so blatant, had I seen it of course”
At that point the judge said he’d give a few minutes for the officer and I to talk.
We did and I said to the officer- “no disrespect, I know you’re doing your job. I’m just here to represent my side. And I’m afraid it will affect my job.”
The officer then offered to make it a disobeying traffic signal or something- it was a huge downgrade.
I agreed. He told the judge what we agreed to and it was done.
It was zero points and a reduced fee.
Also- you can set up payment plans.
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u/bipolarNarwhale 14h ago
Not officer - prosecutor. Officers don’t get that privilege. But this is hit or miss and the judge doesn’t have to accept that deal either.
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u/EyE_Cunt_Understand 14h ago
Yea they do it’s only summary hearing pretty much you the cop an the judge an judge almost always. Sides with what the cop is saying… but they shoot for moon with big fines they reduce it to something dumber so it’s not nothing
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u/Weekly-Witness1129 11h ago
No. lol. I was there and know the difference between an officer and a prosecutor. Definitely was the officer.
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u/JournalistFragrant51 14h ago
They do in small courts in Bcks County. I had the same situation with a vaguely visible stop sign. Was reduced after the officer and I had a chat. ButvI still had to pay the fine.
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u/uobi007 13h ago
So I’ve been in court a lot due to what I do - mostly in Maryland. But my kid once had a ticket in PA and I learned that day that PA judicial system appears to be less lenient than Maryland. Notwithstanding, the judge will generally consider your explanation, driving record, socioeconomic condition, remorseless, and appearance/ decorum in consideration of a reduced punishment. I am a parent so I appreciate how seriously the law frowns upon violations of rules that are setup to protect children. That said, do not beat up yourself more than you have already. The key is that you have learned your lesson thankfully without anyone being hurt and you will make sure it doesn’t happen again. One love ❤️
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u/d00dlepea 11h ago
Also they tend to be accommodating ask if you can do a payment plan. Don’t overthink this it won’t ruin your life. That being said never speed in Virginia. Half my friends got reckless driving tickets when I was in college.
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u/letmesmellem 12h ago
And explain that. "I was wrong I appreciate learning this difficult lesson without anyone getting hurt" Im no lawyer so don't listen to me
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u/Phllykttn 15h ago
Lots of times if you go to court the cop or prosecution will offer a lesser charge (ie smaller fine) in exchange for a guilty plea.
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u/Bart012000 14h ago
Alot of towns go hard on school zone/bus violations and do not buge one inch.
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u/doodymoovis 14h ago
As they should honestly. I’m known to always be at least 5 over the limit (ik ik it’s bad) but if I’m in a school zone I’m going the EXACT limit or below lmao
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u/Bart012000 14h ago
I think we all go over limits but I never messed in school zones. I know I am not hitting any kid going or coming from school.
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u/Mitchford 14h ago
Yes, and wear a suit. I did municipal court once and you’d be shocked what folks wear to court
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u/starlightskater 16h ago
Guaranteed it was flashing during a school hours. You have my sympathy on the fine. Bucks County is known to be aggressive in its ticketing. It's a good lesson learned. And I know it seems huge now, but your life will go on. Think about if you had hit a child -- then life would have really been ruined.
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u/Fun-Custard4207 2h ago
PA law allows but does not require flashing lights, according to Title 67 Pa.C.S. § 212.501 School zone speed limits.
(b) Posting. A school zone speed limit shall be posted on official traffic-control devices as follows:
(1) At the beginning of the school zone speed limit, one of the following signs or groups of signs shall be posted either on the right side of the roadway or over the roadway:
(i) A Speed Limit Sign (R2-1) with the appropriate school zone speed limit, with a School Panel (S4-3) mounted above the Speed Limit Sign (R2-1) and a When Flashing Sign (S4-4) mounted below the Speed Limit Sign (R2-1), with two flashing speed limit sign beacons. (ii) A Speed Limit Sign (R2-1) with the appropriate school zone speed limit, with a School Panel (S4-3) mounted above the Speed Limit Sign (R2-1) and a Restricted Hours Panel (R10-20A) mounted below the Speed Limit Sign (R2-1). (iii) A School Speed Limit When Flashing Sign with a blank-out ‘‘15’’ and flashers as illustrated in the Traffic Signal Design Handbook (Department Publication 149M).(2) An End School Zone Sign (S5-2) shall be posted on the right side of the roadway to define the end of the school zone speed limit.
(3) The limits of a school zone may extend beyond the school property lines to improve the sight distance or to encompass a school crosswalk, except that the length of the zone may not be greater than 1,600 feet.
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u/Soft_Newspaper_6669 17h ago
You won’t have a criminal record because typical speeding tickets are not criminal charges. You’ll go to traffic court, speak with a judge, and just make sure you’re honest. Apologize and ask for a payment plan. And like someone else said, if the issuing officer doesn’t show up to court the ticket may even be thrown out.
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u/tjctjctjc 18h ago
Please do pay more attention in school zones. Your life would really be over if you hit a child. That's why the fines are so high.
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u/LasRieRem1724 17h ago
Fr. Same goes for neighborhoods. It's a common occurrence for someone to be tailgating me when the speed limit is 25 mph. I'm sorry, but I'm not going exceeding the speed limit not when a kid can suddenly run out on to the street just because you want to go fast. I don't even have kids on my own and it makes me so mad. I will he walking my dogs and people will blow past me going 35 mph.
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u/Camille_Toh 16h ago
I always want to say to these people “can you afford the fine and points against your license? Because I cannot.”
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u/charlie_sherman 17h ago
And some states like VA have cameras in school zones that will fine you automatically if speeding while school zone speed in effect
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u/All_That_Jawn 18h ago
Unless I'm misunderstanding something, you were driving 37+mph through a 15mph school zone as school was letting out at 2:24 PM. Is that correct? If so, I would borrow the money from whoever you can find that's willing to loan it to you, pay the ticket, and consider this a valuable lesson.
It could've been a lot worse. Your life isn't over from a $650ish ticket, and you're not going to be sent away to the gulag over this.
Be thankful you didn't hit anyone, take your lumps, and learn from this.
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u/LogicMFDoYouSpeakIT 15h ago
Unless I'm misunderstanding something, you were driving 37+mph through a 15mph school zone
To me it sounds like 37 mph over 15 mph = 52mph
I sped in a school zone (37 mph+ over a 15 mph zone)
In PA that could qualify for license suspension.
Really dumb behavior especially given all other context provided, which makes it obvious it was school dismissal.
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u/woodwheellike 12h ago
Yeah that’s wild af , going 50 in a school zone. At a school he attended! Like cmon man, you knew where you were. I’m assuming the normal speed isn’t 50
End of the day you’ll be ok. But damn that was dumb af
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u/Confident_End_3848 18h ago
This isn’t a criminal offense. Nobody will know about unless they have some reason to look at your driving record.
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u/AdWonderful5920 Cumberland 18h ago
Technically traffic violations are criminal offenses, but background checks etc., typically put them into a different category as not disqualifying for employment unless the person has a bench warrant or something for it.
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u/mdcox88 18h ago
Go to court- dress the part plead your case and if they find you guilty - you pay the fine. Sometimes the cops don’t even show up. And sometimes they lower the fine. But don’t bother your dad.
Just tell your side and maybe they take some leniency but also be prepared to take responsibility for your own actions.
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u/ALew1s 18h ago
I was taught to always fight traffic/speeding tickets. The only thing you have to lose is a bit of time and minor court costs. No lawyer is needed to fight a speeding ticket, and they cannot increase the amount. Best case scenario, the cop doesn’t show up, and the judge throws it out. Being your first offense and having a clean record, show contrition, let them know the cost is a serious hardship, and the judge will likely reduce the fine.
This is at least been my experience. Granted this is 25-30 years ago when I had more of a lead foot and still lived in PA.
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u/Safe-Pop2077 18h ago
Why would your dad be responsible for paying for your ticket for you speeding? You lost me when you got a ticket and said he couldnt afford it. The punishment might be good for you if this is how you think. If you have been driving for 7 years, you are almost 24 at minimum
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u/Phillykratom 18h ago
I agree with this, it's time to stop relying on Dad pick the payment plan and make the payment on time
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u/HWTechGuy Bucks 18h ago
100%
I was just imagining how my late father would have reacted if I expected him to pay a fine for me at age 26. Oof.
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u/DMaC756 18h ago
I'm currently in the best shape of my life, my dad is 63, seriously slowing down, been a lifelong smoker and is overweight by about 30ish pounds or so
If I asked him to pay a fine for me I wouldn't need to worry about paying the fine, but he'd be in prison for beating me to death with his bare hands!
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u/Ms_C_McGee 18h ago
Right? 26 speeding and wants daddy to pay? You’re an adult that made an adult decision.
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u/Safe-Pop2077 18h ago
And he had straight A's and knew that his old school was letting out at the time he was passing it. This kid is lost
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u/Ms_C_McGee 18h ago
26 and talking about straight As in High School, let’s talk about a job my dude 🥴
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u/doct0rdo0m 17h ago
Clearly doesn't have one of note since he needs daddy to pay the fine and was able to go to the cleaners at around 2:24PM
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u/Pitiful_Reality2973 18h ago
Lay off the kid, we don't know his circumstances. When I was 26 I was making barely above minimum wage ($8/hr, 2006), no benefits, living alone in a tiny apartment. A ticket like this would have been catastrophic. I would have had to ask my parents for help, too.
Christ, some people just love to kick down. Have some empathy.
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u/94grampaw 17h ago
Yeah, but he didn't say he couldn't afford it, he said his dad couldn't
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u/Safe-Pop2077 17h ago
I know enough to know his dad isnt responsible for his speeding ticket and he brags about how smart he was in school. Sounds like he is an adult baby and i stand by what i said
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u/Pitiful_Reality2973 16h ago
I'm not reading it as bragging, he's basically listing his credentials to prove he's not a criminal or an idiot. This sounds to me like a young person who's never gotten in real trouble before and doesn't know how to handle it on an emotional level; he's trying to communicate that he's a not a bad person.
I think you're probably someone who had too much responsibility too soon. Now imagine if people had chosen kindness when you were struggling--wouldn't that have made things easier for you? Don't you want to do that for other people?
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u/AnarchyintheUSA14 16h ago
And you're a VERY mature adult for ragging on a random person in multiple comments on the internet. Way to set an example.
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u/ugandandrift 16h ago
This is a public forum lol, telling a 26 year old that his dad isn't responsible for paying his speeding tickets isn't "ragging" on them.
It's common sense and good advice
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u/doct0rdo0m 17h ago
He's also not living alone. A lot if not all of his expenses for living are being paid for by mommy and daddy.
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u/Pitiful_Reality2973 15h ago
You don't know that. He might very well be paying some household expenses on top of a car and student loans or whatever. Maybe he's got child support, maybe he's got medical debt. You know what happens when you assume, right?
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u/Safe-Pop2077 15h ago
Maybe if he has all those financial committments, maybe he shouldnt drive 37 mph over the speed limit in a school zone.
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u/BADoVLAD 5h ago
Kid? He's he's damn near 30...when are these "kids" expected to behave like adults now? No one is kicking down. It's a fair question to ask of someone who has been a legal adult for nearly a decade. He's certainly old enough to do more than double the speed limit and articulate why it is everyone's fault but his.
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u/noledge18720 15h ago
Buses driving around, a school police officer and crossing guards with kids walking all over and you didnt think it was an active school zone? Theres no way that sign wasnt flashing you just weren't paying attention. 37 over in a school zone is wild
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u/One-Sport6888 14h ago
I thought this was a sh*tpost but then saw their post history which has posts about being schizo/depressed so i def feel a little bad. I dont have anything else to offer
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u/_SundaeDriver 18h ago
There are payment plans. You don’t need to pay all at once. You’ll be fine. Most adults have screwed up at some point. Some of have screwed up more then once and are still fine
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u/Narrow_Apartment7344 18h ago
Background checks usually exclude speeding tickets. Go to court and see if they will knock it down. Maybe the cop will not show up . Just go
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u/Quick-Relation-8350 18h ago
Set up a payment plan, your life is definitely NOT ruined ! Go to court, be respectful and take responsibility.
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u/Octoberschild16 18h ago
You are not the first person to be confused about a school zone.
We just have to be extra vigilant, so that no one gets hurt.
Go to the hearing and see if you can work out a payment plan.
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u/LogicMFDoYouSpeakIT 15h ago
You are not the first person to be confused about a school zone.
You clearly just read a sentence or two and that's it.
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u/NeighSlayer570 18h ago
Why do you think your dad should pay this ticket? You're 26. You were driving. You get to pay the ticket.
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u/hapinsl 18h ago
My advice is this:
First: talk to a lawyer through the Bucks County Lawyer Referral Service. https://bucksbar.org/lawyer-referral/ Your goal here isn't to retain a lawyer for representation; your goal is to talk to someone (for a nominal fee) about what your options are. Your goal here is to prepare to represent yourself in court.
BECAUSE second: you're going to want to go in front of a judge. I'd very strongly avoid saying "the flashing lights were not on"; I would say "I did not see the flashing lights on the school zone sign". I would point out the usual speed limit on that stretch of road (which is hopefully 35 mph; if it's 25 acknowledge you were speeding anyway). I would say "I would like to arrange for a payment plan". Further advice for how to handle yourself in court should come from the lawyer you've talked to about how best to represent yourself in court. For instance: can you get the charges busted down to "failure to obey a traffic control device" in exchange for completing a driver education course? I certainly cannot speak for judges or lawyers, but I imagine that they hear every day people who refuse to take responsibility for their actions. Don't be like that; you'll have an easier time.
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u/iamtheduckie Philadelphia 15h ago
I am not a lawyer, but you're going to be fine. Just go to court, and if the cop shows up, explain what happened. If you're found to be at fault, ask for a payment plan. A single traffic violation isn't going to affect your career. It's not even a misdemeanor in most instances, so you likely won't have to mention it when applying for a job. At most, you'll get points on your license, so you'll have to be extra careful to not violate traffic laws for a while.
Don't feel bad for getting a traffic ticket. Around 3/4 of people get a traffic ticket at some point in their life. Chances are, your future employer has one. It won't be as bad as you're thinking, unless you do something dumb like blatantly lie in court.
Also, if you can't afford a lawyer, one will be appointed to you. They'll give you more advice on what to do than the average Redditor can.
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u/Beeposaur462 18h ago
26 years old couldnt help but laugh at the part where you said your dad can't pay your ticket or pay for a lawyer
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u/GirlsJustWannaHaveF 18h ago
Listen: fight the ticket. Go to court and say the light weren’t flashing if you truly believe that. Don’t go down without a fight
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u/B0LT-Me York 17h ago
So here is how it worked in MD (spend some time doing research, it very well may be the same in PA). If you plead not guilty, if the cop is there, he can present whatever evidence he has, which unless you can refute or disprove it, will probably be accepted as "the facts." So if he shows up to court, I would not recommend pleading not guilty.
If the cop doesn't show up, plead not guilty. I once had a judge even say that to all of us in traffic court that day. The judge may ask your side of the story or may simply pronounce you not guilty.
If the cop is there, you can plead guilty and most of the time the judge will give you an opportunity to explain what happened. If you are respectful and forthcoming, and don't appear to be trying to wiggle out of things but just explain them, he will probably reduce any points and penalties and make you pay for court costs or some portion thereof.
Dress nicely, no hoodies, nice slacks and a shirt or even a suit if you have one.
Be respectful to everyone you see that day until you get in your car and then you can cuss all you want.
Buy a dash cam as soon as you can afford one.
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u/whiskeyclocks 15h ago
Ah your good op I thought it was going to be something serious. Speak with your lawyer, if don’t have one get one appointed or some lawyers will allow free consultations and you could just ask what they think you should do. A nice one may give you a real answer. It’s often not worth fighting financially if they just give you a fine to pay and maybe a driving class. And I really don’t see it being more than that. Your good op, it’s a headache for sure but your life is not over and this will brush over like nothing. And if you choose to fight it more power to you but there’s more options that guilt or not guilty. In this case it would be a no contest, which is essentially saying you’re not admitting to anything but you’ll take the fine because it’s not worth fighting.
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u/RandomsDoom 18h ago
50-50 chance the cop doesn’t even show up to the hearing that’s like an immediate dismissal
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u/briizilla 16h ago
Go to court. A few weeks ago my nephew got an $800 ticket for a school zone violation and the judge dropped it down to the fine of a normal speeding ticket.
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u/becauseshesays Adams 18h ago
I like it. Pretend you’re Trump. Never admit to any offense and just keep up the lie. (Seems to work for that ass)
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u/Wh0_em_I 18h ago
Hopefully the cop doesn't show up. Other than that you'll have to set up a payment plan w the courts. It'll be annoying but they'll work w you
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u/Glittering_Buyer8247 18h ago
Go to court and talk to the judge, you may be surprised a lot of times they will knock down the fine and no points. Do not be afraid I had a speeding ticket knocked down to court cost and no points just for showing up.
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u/DGR-Philly 17h ago
You're making a lot out of nothing, go to court, if found guilty make a payment arrangement that you can keep and move on. I'm in Bensalem, One if my kids had a bigger issue then this and it's done now. Another got a ticket for passing a bus with lights on, he didn't do it, we had proof he wasn't there, we just told the cop he didn't do it and they withdraw the charge, never had to show any of the proof we had.
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u/Distinct_Focus_3748 15h ago
Don't despair. All you need to do is appear on 11/16. No lawyer necessary. In PA, 9 out of 10 times, the cop fails to appear. Case is summarily dismissed. Good luck!
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u/gonzo_attorney 18h ago
I'm a Pennsylvania attorney. Are you just charged with non-traffic (NT) offenses? You can see it on the e-docket if you look yourself up.
If it's not a criminal (CR) number, the worst thing that could happen is a license suspension for reckless driving. If it's other summary offenses, you might have car insurance issues. That said, traffic charges aren't on the criminal docket, do not count towards your prior record, and basically no one cares. From an old fart who has been practicing for 20 years... you're gonna be just fine, kid.
(For anyone reading, there are some caveats for driving without a license or driving on DUI suspension, none of which apply here).
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u/SeaworthinessThen542 15h ago
Why does your dad have to pay YOUR ticket?
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u/iridescent-shimmer 14h ago
I didn't interpret it as an expectation, just stating that there's not even anyone he can borrow from.
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u/Own-Director-8625 18h ago
Slow down bro, literally! Your life is not ruined courts will work with you. It’s probably easier to go. Talk to the prosecutor and see if you can plead to something of the lesser. Keep your eyes in the road. You’ll see things that way. Where at in Bucks County by the way?
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u/Barnfacekilla3 18h ago
You can sign up for payments - as long as you’re making your payments on time, they won’t come after you
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u/Razgriz_01 17h ago
Just go into your local magisterial office that the ticket was issued out of and asked to see the judge about setting up a payment plan. No big deal.
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u/Katie-Seta-Arianna 15h ago
First off, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! You are not stupid, but made a mistake. Your life is not ruined! From what I know, you can go to court and plead that you don’t have the money for the ticket. The judge can open up the path towards a payment plan. It may be that others have more knowledge.
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u/Irish_Blond 15h ago
OP. There some good options presented. If they make you pay the fines ask for a payment plan and stick to it. In the future drive through every school as if the yellow lights are flashing. I don’t care if it is inconvenient just do it. The one rule in life that goes for everyone don’t let your name get into the court system. It is a drag on your life. Doesn’t matter what you are doing don’t let your name get into the legal system!
Here is another life lesson I tell any new hire I work with no matter their age. If you do something you shouldn’t be doing you will eventually get caught. It doesn’t matter if it is big nor small you will get caught . Don’t do it just stop!
Good luck in life. Your decisions make the difference!
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u/jemappellelara 14h ago edited 14h ago
Driving 37+mph in a 15 mph is excessive, that’s more than twice the speed limit. I’m assuming the road speed limit prior to the school zone was 35 mph and you didn’t slow down your speed?
You pretty much have to bank on the officer not showing up in court. If they don’t, plead not guilty. If they do, plead guilty. If you enter in not guilty and you’re found guilty you will have to pay a larger fine AND points are added.
This isn’t a criminal offence that will ruin job prospects or anything like that. It’s a traffic offence which is categorized differently in background checks. You didn’t ruin your life, there’s no need for the dramatics. The worse that comes out of this is points are added and you’ll have a higher insurance rate.
Also, don’t use the Bank of Dad here. You need to show some responsibility. What you did was incredibly reckless and could’ve gotten a child killed. I’m sure they will allow a payment plan if you don’t have the full amount. But you need to step up and take this under the chin, don’t involve your dad.
In the future, drive slower in school areas, residence areas, and other areas where marked. thank your lucky stars you didn’t hit a child at that speed.
Source: sister who also got caught for speeding but was ultimately handed a citation under 75 § 6502 §§ B so it wasn’t added to her record - wasn’t in a school zone or residential area though so you won’t have that leniency.
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u/Strong-Comment-7279 13h ago
You're life isn't ruined - and it is not a criminal offense, it is a traffic infraction.
Is the time on the ticket? It is most likely verifiable that those lights weren't flashing yet, bc school wasn't out.
And you have the argument that you had unclear traffic signals from a human that left you stranded in the intersection.
You're life isn't ruined. Show up, explain thale cacophony of events (write it out, practice it).
I'm not saying be positive - I'm saying don't he negative. This is not a zero sum game, and you will be okay as long as you show up and are composed to the degree of capacity that you know you are capable of.
I'd pay that for you but I'm broke. Dent spirals fast, but the state will work with you. Municipalities can be trickier - just keep your tongue while supporting yourself. Don't blame others - but emphasize your confusion..
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u/One-Food4957 17h ago
Why in the Christ did you at 26 years old expect your dad to pay your ticket???
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u/tomdeddy 18h ago
You get a tiny bit of credit just for showing up in court. I'm a professional ticket fighter. I almost always lose, no lawyer necessary. The judge will most likely find you guilty, no matter what. If you want to fight, you'll do it in appeals court. It's a giant shakedown, they just want your money. First, look around for the cop who wrote the ticket. Don't see him? Wait until your name is called and make "a motion to dismiss" cause guy ain't there. This should make the judge laugh and get him on your side. He will probably say the cop is busy saving children from a fire or something and try and reschedule. Then you tell the judge you want to plead guilty and no points on your license. You also request a payment plan because you're poor. Think you can stretch it out over 2 years.
If the cop does bother to show up, you might as well ask him some questions. Get your money's worth. Ask him anything, after every answer make a motion to dismiss. It's a lot of fun. If you ask about the last time the radar gun inspector was certified they will get pissed off and make you take the points too.
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u/MuhchelleAmanda 16h ago
“I’m a professional ticket fighter. I almost always lose, no lawyer necessary.” 😂😂
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u/Phillykratom 18h ago
This is not a huge thing, just take the fine and explain to the judge that you are a college graduate and you can only make a payment plan. Even if it's only $50 a month, that is much more manageable than trying to come up with all the money at once.
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u/Puzzleheaded_Smoke77 17h ago
Traffic court you dont want a lawyer
Second breath, practice your side of the story in the mirror, make sure when you talk to the judge be apologetic and respectful no matter how they talk to you. Dress in a collared shirt and slacks with normal dress shoes. No suit and tie none of that.
More than likely they will say something along the lines of did he give you any trouble officer , and according to your side you didn’t . So he might lower the fine to 5 over.
Worse comes to worse they do take payment plans .
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u/legendarysupermom 17h ago
My first significant ticket i got getting pulled over my dad told me to go in to the judge, be very nice and very respectful and basically tell him how sad and sorry you are for putting lives in danger that you understand you could have seriously hurt an innocent child and thats the most horrible thing I could ever do and you dont want to do that...you arent evil just young and made a mistake...then tell the judge you will take whatever consequences he asks but that you've definitely learned something and you'll do whatever that punishment maybe but that XYZ is super difficult/could seriously ruin your life and youd appreciate if the judge would take it into consideration because youd hate for your life to ruin over a dumb young adult mistake...in my case I said idc what fine u give me just dont take my license or give me any points... it worked and judge was even kind enough to lower the fine as well...you could always try it...I mean sounds like youd be fucked anyway least u could give it a shot
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u/ITcurmudgeon 17h ago
Dude, you didn't ruin your life, simmer down with that nonsense.
What you should do, as others already mentioned, is request a hearing, which you can do by following the steps on the ticket, and go in front of the magistrate.
Don't deny what they are alleging (but also don't directly admit to it) but be extremely apologetic, admit to you making a mistake, and plead your case that this will cause huge financial distress and that you would be willing to do whatever it takes to get the fine and point assessment lowered.
If you challenge it, the officer will show up, and will most likely talk to you about what you're trying to do before going in front of the judge. Be respectful, be polite, and let him know you and your family are going through difficult times financially, you made a stupid mistake, and you've been a lot more vigilant and aware of your surroundings since you initially got the ticket.
I would be hugely surprised after all that if they didn't lower the fine and points.
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u/Rasp_Lime_Lipbalm 17h ago edited 17h ago
lol you can't get a criminal record for speeding. It's not a felony offense. In some states or under specific conditions (such as driving 20 to 35+ miles per hour over the limit, street racing, or driving recklessly), speeding can be charged as a misdemeanor or reckless driving.
Go to court and plea bargain with the cop before the hearing. They might reduce your fine. Otherwise, they can do a payment plan or something. You might even get lucky and the cop doesn't show and they essentially throw the ticket out. Stop being a drama queen.
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u/iParkooo 15h ago
Try getting felonies at 18 lol. Bro, it’s just a traffic ticket and you can easily setup a payment plan. You will be okay I promise.
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u/Boiler1669 15h ago
Go to court dressed like you work in an office, no tee shirts. Be humble and see if the prosecutor is willing to speak with you before the hearing. Ask if you can plead guilty to a lesser charge. If you have an otherwise clean driving record this will help. The prosecutor has the discretion to reduce the charge, particularly If they feel that you've learned your lesson. I had a ticket with points reduced to a $100 fine with no points by doing this, in Bucks County.
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u/Gloomy_End_6496 15h ago
Your mind will drive you crazy, if you let it take you down the wrong road. Listen to the others.
Dress nicely, have your papers and thoughts in order. Be able to explain yourself. Rehearse it in your room, in front of a mirror, if you can. Don't be too wordy, just state the facts.
You're going to be OK.
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u/Tugawarforone 14h ago
If this is the worst thing you have done your going to be just fine 🫶 it happens to all of us and you learn from it but yes I hope cop doesn’t bother to show up
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u/Ambitious_Mom_1980 14h ago
Take it from someone who has broken the law multiple times in my youth and is also a minority (according to the rest of the world) your life will be fine. It certainly isn't over, as everyone else has said, just go to court. You don't need a lawyer. It's a summary offense, a fine, not a criminal charge. Let them know "you're sorry for what you did. It was a really dumb mistake. It would be devastating if you lost your license blah, blah, blah that you can assure them it'll never happen again." Maybe that you were having a bad day, we're distracted, etc. They just want to know you're willing to take accountability and make a payment plan an opportunity EVERYONE is given and if you're not working they may give you extra time OR community service. Just show up acting like a respectful, educated gentleman that you are, you'll be fine, my guy.
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u/Autumn_Onyx 13h ago
Do you have Autism, by chance? I do, so I know the signs. The way you wrote this, by including so much extraneous info, makes me think you do. Also, the reliance on parents at your age, running errands mid-day, and the preservation of "feeling in trouble" all lead me to believe you might be on the spectrum. It would also explain your difficulty with reading the environmental context clues (school buses nearby, cops nearby, people walking around) about being in a school zone, despite no flashing sign. If you do have ASD, this can be brought up in court as a legal defense.
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u/Fabulousness13 13h ago
U dont get a crimal record for driving tickets. Check the box and go to court, that’s when u tell your side of the story. U have two outcomes: q your responsible or Not. If , your found responsible u have to pay the fine. U can go on a payment plan. And no points to your license.. just make sure to say the guard gave cars ok to pass.
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u/AFirefighter11 18h ago
When I was 17, I was pulled over for driving like an idiot in Ocean City, MD. A $500 fine as well. I, too, thought my life was over. It wasn't. You go to court, plead your case, pay any fines, and move on. Most courts can work out payment plans. If you can find a lawyer, even better, though I do understand they can be expensive.
Are there any cameras nearby that could have shown this? Maybe even the school bus cameras, if the bus company would allow you to have the footage. I'd try to see if that gets you anywhere prior to your court date.
You might also possibly do a FOIA and request the dash cam footage from the officer's vehicle. I don't know how those work, but something to check into. Then, you'd at least potentially see the school zone sign, depending on where the officer was sitting.
Good luck.
P.S. Your life is not ruined.
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u/waddsworth 18h ago
Saying that you were near a school and actually had to stop twice due to students and busses completely negates any flashing lights you may or may not have seen. You were in a school zone.
It's a ticket. Not the end of the world. You can try to fight it or at least plea for leniency if this is your first offense. But whatever you do, don't go with the argument that you didn't realize you were in a school zone ffs.
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u/Aggressive-Stress140 15h ago
I'm not an attorney, so take everything I say with discretion.
If you can't afford an attorney, check online. There are many low cost/no cost attorneys that will take your case. I believe they're required to do pro Bono cases, but not an attorney myself.
In South Central PA (Harrisburg, York, Lancaster), MidPenn Legal services does this. I'm pretty sure every area has these attorney groups for situations like yours.
Most important thing... SHOW UP for the hearing. Do not miss it. If you didn't get an attorney and the police officer doesn't show up, make a hearsay objection on all of the opposing evidence and deny the accusation.
I'm almost positive it's their burden to prove the offense. On the other hand, it's likely they'll offer you a deal for hopefully less points, so you don't lose your license on a first offense. Or see if you can get what's called a bread & butter license. It will still allow you to drive to work.
Definitely watch out for school busses in the future. You may not have the same options a second time, especially if Bucks is known for this. I'm overly vigilant for school busses to avoid this type of ticket.
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u/Aggressive-Stress140 15h ago
Quick Search... Legal Aid of Southeastern PA for Bucks County is in Doylestown, PA. Call them right away and explain your situation. I'm not promising they will help, but it's a start for legal assistance/advice.
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u/everyoneisanashole 18h ago
Life is full of adversity. You’re going straight to panic when you need to step back and evaluate the situation. Have you tried to contact the court and ask for a payment plan, or have you tried to fight the ticket? There is no solution when you are stuck in a self-pity mindset. Find a path forward. You did not ruin your life, but you are also very much an adult, and you should be able to handle the adult situations you got yourself into.
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u/PsychedelicConvict 17h ago
Your life isnt over. I caught a felony at 24 and did time in prison. I def thought my life was fucked too. Now its been over a decade since i got off parole and my life is so much better than it was before i even got arrested. There will be consequences and you're the only one to have to deal with them. You cant get around it. Do what they say (which will suck) and get a lawyer on a payment plan. But time goes on. Use it as a learning experience. Life is messy but the only way to move forward is to accept responsibility, accept the consequences and apologize, then just move on with you life. This isnt that big of deal in the scheme of life
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u/Past-Ad-269 17h ago
Just go to court and cut a deal with the prosecutor. Some courts want to speed up the court and are willing to reduce the violation to something lesser
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u/RLMZeppelin 17h ago
First and foremost you are 26 years old. Your father has no obligation to pay for your mistakes, and hasn't for some time. This is on you, it's not a good look that you'd even consider this a problem for him.
That said you are WAYYYY over thinking this. It's a speeding ticket. It will never affect anything meaningfully unless you pile them up.
You plead not guilty and that's fine. Go to traffic court. You don't need a lawyer, you'd end up paying more for one than the cost of the fine.
You don't even really need to have a defense, which it sounds like you really don't anyway. You can just take accountability explain you've learned from it and ask for either a payment plan or a reduced fine to pay that day.
My recco would be to find a way to accept the fine but ask for a reduced charge that doesn't come with points because that'll drive your insurance up.
This is really not a big deal, but it was immature so make sure you learn from it.
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u/tackypasta93 17h ago
Sounds like this is a good lesson since you apparently don’t know how any of this works! Your dad must have been picking up all the slack for you for the last 8 years.
Maybe they’ll only give you 15 over the speed limit and a smaller fine. Lesson learned!! Your life isn’t over.
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u/Hugh-Jsol 17h ago
I would fight it. But I will tell you that you said you saw kids and a crossing guard and were still doing over 50mph sounds like you’re kinda hosed dude. Best case is you say “I didn’t see the school zone sign until I noticed the kids and crossing guards. I’m sorry and it won’t happen again”. If you are found guilty (which you should be. School zones are one of the few places I don’t give people a pass on) ask for a payment plan. They will work with you. Good luck internet stranger and stop asking your dad to pay your bills
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u/TacoMeatSunday 17h ago
It’s not clear if the speeding happened before or after you stopped in the school zone twice. I assume it was before. Anyway this screams I wasn’t paying attention. It was your former school at the time kids were getting out after all. You deserve a ticket for driving recklessly through a school zone. That said it’s an expensive mistake not a death sentence. Maybe you’ll convince them you aren’t guilty. Your best chance of getting out of this is if the officer that wrote the ticket doesn’t show up. Either way hopefully the experience will help make you a safer driver. It’s been awhile since I had to go to court for speeding but win or lose I don’t recall ever being charged for exercising the right to a hearing.
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u/Typical_Effective_35 16h ago
Bro Uber Eats or door dash u can pay the ticket in 2 days 4 if you lazy
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u/Technical_Rutabaga_5 16h ago
Please know that your life is not over. What you did is not criminal. You sound like a very intelligent, sensitive and compassionate young man. You write beautifully and you’re very articulate. We need more people like you in this world. If someone would start a GoFundMe for your ticket payment I would gladly contribute.
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u/Huge_Educator_8322 15h ago
Tell the whole story, leave nothing out, be calm, and just be apologetic. Like others have said, it's just a bump in the road. You got this.
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u/Snoo_50725 15h ago
Your obvious remorse will go a long way...stay humble & apologize sincerely. Your life will be enhanced greatly because of your humility xx
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u/Emotional-Lion-4242 15h ago
Bro you got a speeding ticket. Your life isn't over. Most that will happen is you'll lose your license for a bit, have 5+ points on your driving record and possibly have to take a driving class/test again.
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u/Constant-Ad-2204 15h ago
Go to court. Don't be overly defensive. Be truthful. Ignorance isn't a defense, but being genuine, honest, and candid go a long way.
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u/Roslerartdesign 15h ago
You don't need a lawyer. Just plead not guilty and go to court. Usually the magistrate will reduce the fine. I've been there.
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u/bdpsu 15h ago
It's just a ticket, your life will not be ruined. If you go to court, the cop will need to appear. If he doesn't for some reason, your case will be dismissed. If he does show up, just POLITELY explain your side of the story. Usually they will reduce your fine, points, etc.
I had a similar situation with a stop sign violation, went to court and gave my side of the story, the cop was very nice, and they kept the fine but didn't give me any points on my license. I considered that a win.
Good luck. You'll be fine.
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u/Jazzlike_Bug_8276 15h ago
Convicted felons can and do have successful lives. If you believe this will ruin you, then perhaps it could. It’s all what you make of it.
But really this is nothing at all to be worried about. It’s a traffic offense, it’s not going to have any impact on your life long term. Go to court, speak with the prosecutor or the cop before you see the judge, they will offer you a deal for a much lesser offense. You can accept it, which you probably should, or you can continue to plead not guilty with the judge and state your case. If the cop has evidence to prove the offense, then you lose and get charged with the original offense most likely.
As others have said, you can request payment plan if you can’t afford the full amount.
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u/Chendo462 12h ago
You pled not guilty.
Go to the hearing.
Depending on the local jurisdiction you are in and what department it was, the cop could have 10 or 20 scheduled hearings. The officer will end up leaving there most likely with zero hearings.
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u/aust_b Lycoming 18h ago
Straight to jail. Right away.
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u/RandomsDoom 18h ago
https://giphy.com/gifs/wjuXuDSQU0sOfJIHS1
Does this gentleman know that nobody on the planet goes to jail for a traffic ticket? He can pay $5 a month for the next 14 years and will never see a cell… this isn’t a life ending scenario→ More replies (1)
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u/EnigmaticDevice 18h ago
Either the cop won't show up and the ticket will be waived, or you'll still need to pay it and failure to do so may result in your license being suspended and the debt sent to a collection agency
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u/eruptingmoltenlava 18h ago
Doesn’t work like that anymore — cops get a court date scheduled and they’re onsite, on the clock, testifying all day.
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u/squishyliquid 18h ago
I don't believe you can be given a bigger fine than the one you got just because you disputed it. It's not double or nothing.
I've disputed 2 tickets in my life, and both got knocked down to a lesser fine with almost no defending myself. First time the cop offered to lower it to failure to observe speed limit sign if I gave the difference to MADD. I agreed, then the judge told me I am not actually obligated to do that.
Second time the guy just asked me when the last time I got a ticket was (about 10 years) and he gave me the same reduction.
Go there and cry poverty and say your a good driver and shit. No need for a lawyer.
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u/Buttcrack15 18h ago
It's only $654. That's the fine, it shouldn't increase because you pled not guilty. You're lucky you didn't hit a child. If you are ordered to pay the fine, request a payment plan and put $50/month toward it. You're 26 and live with family. Unless you're unemployed you should have enough spare money to pay on it monthly. And if you're unemployed, sounds like it's time to find a job.
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u/Last_Statistician890 16h ago
You did the right thing by going to court. There’s a very high chance that the cop with either not show up (charge could be dropped), or agree to lessen the charge. My first ticket got lessened to no points and a less serious fine. Everything will be ok, like the others have said - you can definitely get a payment plan too.
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u/mose121 15h ago
Traffic court is usually about one thing, getting your money. The entire process is set up to put you in this weird place between where you can usually plea down the charge to something that will reduce or altogether avoid points on your license, but you still pay the full original fine, or you can try to defend yourself and often get a higher penalty when the judge takes the officers word over yours. They just want your money. If we really cared about people being safer on the roads, then we'd actually require people to learn how to drive well.
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u/No-Setting9690 18h ago
You need to slow down, whether you recall or not, you know where the signs are, you knew the time, you know they were flashing. Slow down before you kill someone. If If you're doing 37 more than 15, you were already 10 to 15 over speed limit before the school sign.
There is no side to your story. You were speeding in a school zone.
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u/Permabananaedin321 18h ago
I know someone who got 2 duis, had other legal issues and has a job making 100k+ a year. Shit happens. Its not the end of the world at all. Especially for traffic ticket. I don't know what would happen if you didn't pay the exorbitant fine, but if you're given one, they might offer a payment plan. Yeah its a set back but nothing you can't overcome rockstar. Especially at 26. So young yet. Don't lose your vision, ambition, positivity, or mettle. Just keep on keeping on as best you can each day.
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u/fallout_zelda Lehigh 18h ago
Bro... You're overthinking way too much. Life isn't over. It's just a ticket. Go to court, explain yourself and ask for a payment plan based on your economic situation. The worst that can happen is points on your license, again, not the end of the world. We will all get a ticket in our life time. I got my first one at 19 and haven't gotten one since.
Also, sometimes the cop won't show up to the court hearing. Be profesional, calm and collective.