How Can You Get a Caltrain Citation Dismissed or the Fine Reduced

[Automata]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: California

I did not have time to buy a Caltrain ticket because I was in such a hurry to board the train, otherwise I would have been late to class. I ride Caltrain everyday and paid for my tickets, except today. I used the pass I had yesterday, hoping the inspector wouldn't notice. The inspector charged me for 1) Fare Evasion and 2) Unauthorized use of the eligibility discounts, because I mistakenly used a Youth ticket instead of a regular ticket. I wouldn't mind paying a fine or doing community service, but I can't afford $390! Is there any way for me to reduce the Caltrain fine?

My friend who got a citation said he wrote a letter to the court explaining his circumstances and they reduced his fine to $100. How does this work?

Also, will this go into my DMV record? This is a first time offense.

Also, how much is the fine for these two charges? Do I only have to pay $390, or do I have to pay twice the fine ($390 for #1, and $390 for #2)?

[PTPD22]

Is there any way for me to reduce the Caltrain fine?

Well, it seems that there is no question that you committed the violations. You boarded and road the train without purchasing the required fare. You are also ineligible for the expired discount fare you used the previous day and that you deceptively tried to present to the inspector…having a hard time grasping how you “mistakenly” bought the discount ticket but used it to ride anyway! Anyway, I see no defense to contest the citation. Any fine reduction will be at the discretion of the judge.

My friend who got a citation said he wrote a letter to the court explaining his circumstances and they reduced his fine to $100. How does this work?

The “letter” your friend wrote was likely his declaration in a trial by declaration. Again, any fine reduction will be at the discretion of the judge.

Also, will this go into my DMV record? This is a first time offense.

No. This is not a traffic offense. So, it will not be reported to the DMV.

Also, how much is the fine for these two charges? Do I only have to pay $390, or do I have to pay twice the fine ($390 for #1, and $390 for #2)?

That I don’t know. You will need to contact the court to find out.

Since you “ride Caltrain everyday and paid for my tickets” wouldn’t it be both cheaper and much more convenient to buy a monthly pass???? Then you wouldn’t have to worry about earning $390 tickets because you overslept!