Help with my first speeding ticket

[redlanterngal]

I just received my first ticket ever, for going 56 in a 45. I would really rather avoid increasing my insurance, but am not sure what to do next.

I've had some folks tell me that if I show up to court and tell the judge that this is my first offence and ask for a speed reduction, that I will most likely get it and then only have to pay court costs. And, so long as the ticket is reduced to 9 or less over, my insurance company wouldn't be notified.

I've had other folks tell me that if the officer didn't reduce the speed while writing the ticket, it's unlikely the judge will. And even if the judge did reduce it, It would still be reported to my insurance company, and I would still have to go to the driving class and pay for that.

So, what's the likelihood of having the judge reduce the ticket? I'm 24, and up until today have had a spotless record. And even if the judge does reduce it, will my insurance find out?

[aaron]

There's no hard and fast rule - the judge's personality plays a big role.

If you request your state's equivalent of a formal hearing, where the officer must come and testify, you will probably get the chance to negotiate with the prosecutor, may be able to obtain a dismissal if the officer doesn't appear, and should still be able to plead your case if all else fails. (Although it is generally not wise to have the hearing before switching to a guilty plea.)

[lwpat]

Find out the prosecuter that has been assigned the case and his office hours. Just walk in and request a reduction to a 9mph over ticket. It is usually an assembly line process and this will save you from going to court. You do not need an attorney although one will usually handle it for about 75.00.