What happens if you get guilty in traffic court?

Many people try to represent themselves, but it is not advisable. If you are found guilty in traffic court, the next step is to sentence you to a punishment. In the penalty phase, the judge has four options: A judge can chose to send you to traffic school.

Can a judge lower the fine for a traffic ticket?

However, some states prohibit judges from giving the driver a break in this way. And even in states where judges are allowed to lower fines, they might not be able to for certain offenses. Judges in some states can require drivers who plead not guilty to post bail. Judges often set the bail at the amount of the fine for the traffic violation.

What happens at the end of a traffic court case?

At the end of your trial, the judge will either find you guilty or not guilty. A not-guilty verdict means you beat the ticket—for most purposes, it’s like you never got the citation in the first place. If, on the other hand, the court finds you guilty, the violation will go on your driving record and you’ll likely have to pay a fine.

Can a judge give you a break in traffic court?

In states that allow it, it’s common for judges to give drivers a break in this way. While you’re waiting for your case to come up, pay attention to what the judge does in other cases. If the judge reduces the fines for several other people who plead guilty, there’s a good chance that you’ll get a reduction as well.

Can a traffic court case be tried by a judge?

Trial By Judge: Understanding Traffic Court. In most of the 50 states, you do not have the right to a jury trial in a traffic ticket case, which means a judge alone decides whether or not you are guilty. In the others, you can insist on a jury trial.

What happens if you plead not guilty to a traffic violation?

Judges in some states can require drivers who plead not guilty to post bail. Judges often set the bail at the amount of the fine for the traffic violation. The purpose of bail is to ensure that the motorist comes back to court. If you win at trial, the court will refund your bail.

How to fight your traffic violation in court?

Some jurisdictions require a written notice be sent to the Clerk of the Court’s office outlining how you plan on handling your citation. Your options may be to request a court hearing, attend traffic school or submit an affidavit of compliance for cases involving safety equipment violations or “fix-it” tickets.