My question involves traffic court in the State of Washington.
I was cited by an officer for "running the red light" as he put it, under RCW 46.64.055. He informed me that the event was recorded with audio and video and our discussion was recorded, as well. I respectfully offered that I did not "run the red light", that my vehicle was into the crosswalk when the light turned red. He attempted to instruct me that the yellow light meant I must stop. I respectfully stated that I was not required to stop on the yellow light and, again, that I was in the intersection when the light turned red and proceeded through so as to clear the intersection.
I intend to request discovery, serving the prosecutor's office and filing a copy with the court, ensuring that I have proof of service and proof of delivery. I will want to examine the video to ensure that, as I believe, I was in the intersection. I see by IRLJ 3.1(b) that the Prosecutor is only required to provide me with video evidence that "the prosecutor proposes to use at trial...." So, my first question is this: 1) How might I compel the prosecutor to produce this video even if he/she might not intend to use it at trial? What if the prosecutor sees that it damages their case? I want access to it. How might I compel that?
The officer appears to have written the ticket correctly except for one error, showing my hair as BLO (blond) instead of BRO (brown). 2) Is that of any merit in looking for possible errors? Or is that too minor to worry about.
Next, I know that I usually try to get my work done early, so that I have time to react to changing circumstances. But since sending in a Discovery Request early gives the adversary more time to respond, would it have any merit to serve and file right near the end of the required time period? 3) Might serving the prosecutor late be a worthy tactic?
Finally, if the prosecutor (or judge) asked for a continuance in court for any reason and I were prepared for trial, I could imagine they might ask for the grounds of my objection. I can state it clearly as a citizen. 4) But what is the foundation for my objection to such a motion?
Thank you for the service you do at this website, allowing individuals to become more involved with the process of the law.

