My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of: Washington
I was ticketed for traveling 50 MPH in a 30MPH zone (SMC11.52.04016U: 16-20MPH over limit for 40 and under zone). I have received a copy of the ticket and the officer's sworn statement and almost everything seems to be in order. I have scheduled a contested hearing in Seattle Municipal Court. A few questions:
- The officer mentions that he conducted the Fixed Distance, HUD Alignment, and Delta Distance tests. However, he does not mention anything about running internal diagnostics or checking proper operation of lights and display. Is this required or is this an avenue for dismissal of the LIDAR evidence?
- I have dash cam video of the trip with date, time, and speed stamped on the video. It begins at the beginning of my trip and ends after I pull over and roll down the window to speak with the officer (approximately 5 minutes of video) and shows my speed never exceeding 35 MPH. I stopped the video because I didn't know what the laws are for recording police officers. Can I introduce this video as part of my defense? If so, how do I go about doing it (I was planning on bring my tablet to court)? Lastly, what is the likely weight the judge will assign to the video evidence vs. the officer's written testimony (he is not subpoenaed)?
- Based on the evidence I have above, if I am offered a deferral prior to presenting my evidence, should I take it? I dislike admitting to something I didn't do, so I guess I'm really asking how likely it is for my case to succeed based on the above.
Thanks much in advance for everyone's comments and help.

