Getting Ticket Fees Reduced

[MegGra]

My question involves a driver's license issued by the State of: California

Currently paying off an $1800 ticket due to irresponsibly dealing with a ticket received for running a red light, which had just been put in the day before ticket was received. License has been suspended for about 6 months. I am Wondering if hiring an attorney and going to court could be a way to reduce the amount? I am a full time college student and work as well. I know I am completely at fault for the poor judgement I used to handle the situation but I just simply can not pay the amount soon enough and need to get my license reinstated asap.

[Mr. Knowitall]

If you can find a lawyer who believes that he can help you reduce the fees, with a likely reduction sufficient to save you money even after you pay your lawyer - ideally one who also promises that his fee won't be larger than any reduction he obtains - you can consider that option. I am skeptical, though, that the lawyer would succeed and also am skeptical that it would be cost-effective.

[Shelbee]

Can you petition the court (i think you would have to appear before the judge and if you do, you should ask for a reduction of fees-- it cant hurt to ask) and ask for community service? Maybe that can knock off some or all of the ticket fees :/ . I would call the court clerks office to see if your ticket has that option. keep us posted..

[quirkyquark]

Currently paying off an $1800 ticket due to irresponsibly dealing with a ticket received for running a red light....

Are you already on a payment plan? Did you even appear in court personally after you got the failure to appear, etc.? A LOT of judges will drop one or more FTAs and/or the civil assessment if you appear, apologize and (ideally) have a decent excuse.