Is It Possible To Reduce The Fine?

[bigibigballs]

Background: This is my 1st speeding ticket. I was not checking speed, going in left lane of 4 lane 580 near oakland, conditions clear, dry. I look in rearview mirror and see a patrol car in distance, but closing fast. I checked my speed, 78 in 65 zone....damn it! When i checked again the patrol car was right on my tail, almost tailgating me, but no sirens yet. So I tried to switch lane, thinking he wanted to pass me, when I was then pulled over. Officer "pacing" me for 1/2 a mile at 85mph (which I feel both are inaccurate but no real proof).

Anyways the as ticket speed would list falls into 16-25mph over limit bracket = at least $266. I feel i deserve fine that falls into 1-15mph category = $146. Being college grad student, money is tight. I don't really want to go to court.
Do I have a chance of getting my fine reduced?

If yes, can I do so before my court date through mail since the court is not out of my way and I am a full time student? (ie can i call prosecutor? )

Any advice is much appreciated.

[aaron]

Traffic court procedures are different in each state.