Ticket for a Burnt Out Brake Lamp

[mediumtodd]

My question involves vehicle maintenance laws for the State of: Nevada

I was sighted recently for: Violation - Stop Lamps, To Wit - Driver side rear brake light was not operational, 1324129. Upon recieving the citation, the issuing officer explained that I should repair the problem (change a light bulb) and have another officer sign off on the ticket at a nearby LVMPD substation. I followed his instructions and got another officer to sign the ticket at which time he informs me that I need to take the ticket Downtown, wait in line, and show them the ticket with his signature, and they will dismiss it. Once again I followed the instructions. After waiting for three hours, my number was finally called. I showed the clerk my paperwork and was now informed that I owe $20.00. I asked why and she told me I could either pay $20.00 or plead not guilty and set a court date. I set the court date. When I went to court. I waited to see the judge and she asked why I didn't just pay the $20.00 fine. I replied that I didn't feel I should be financially responsible for a burnt out light bulb other than the cost of the repair. She said that I stll broke the law. I decided to continue to plead not guilty and go to trial. I received a court date and a trial preparation form for LV Municipal Court that states I can hire an attorney or represent myself. I'm not provided with a Public Defender even though I could go to jail if I miss my court date and held in Contempt of Court. I'm confused and not about to pay to hire a lawyer. My question: Is there anything I can use as a defense for this case of extortion?

[Mr. Knowitall]

Charging you a $20 fine for your breaking a law, even if you didn't mean to, is not extortion.

[Billy Mack]

It's not extortion. The state has probably already spent more than $20 on this ticket.

The government doesn't make money on machs nichts fines.