My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of:
Several days before, I took a vacation with my friends to SF and when we wanted to go back to Los Angeles, it was a little late so I drove fast when I feel it was safe to do so. I drove 122 on a 65 zone on SR 46. There was absolutely no car at that time on road and the road is very straight. I immediately slowed down when I saw a car in my sight. And then I was pulled over by the cop. The cop was really angry and threatened to arrest me immediately but finally he gave me a ticket. It is a violation of 22348(b) vs speed 100+ (Infraction). After some research, I feel lucky he did not charge me for reckless driving, probably because there is really no car there and I slowed down immediately when I saw a car and I have a clean driving record. The cop told me the fine will be around $3000.

I really learned a lesson from it and I believe I will never speed any more, even I feel it is safe. Now I want to know how to handle this ticket. Should I find a lawyer to help me to defend the case? Is there any possibility that I will win in trial, with a speed at 122(although I believe it should be around 115, but it is still way above 100 mph)? If the judge decides to suspend my driver license for 30 days, when does the suspension will take effect? Will the driver license suspension of driver license take effect immediately or the DMV will set a starting time themselves after they receive the judgment?

I have begun to save money for the big fine and potential increase on my car insurance or retaining a lawyer. But what is the best way to handle this matter? I am a student and I live on campus. 30 day driver licence suspension is harsh but will not affect my life significantly.

Thank you all for any suggestions.