[Mackliet]

Hypothetically speaking, suppose someone receives a speeding ticket. Suppose further that the offense - according to the docket of the General District Court - is toward the lower end of severity, in terms of the extent to which the speed limit was exceeded. And further suppose that this someone's DMV record is completely clean.

Would it be a ridiculous waste of time for this someone to appear in court and plead no contest and humbly ask for dismissal by citing the clean driving record?

[9toofaresser]

Originally Posted by Mackliet

Hypothetically speaking, suppose someone receives a speeding ticket. Suppose further that the offense - according to the docket of the General District Court - is toward the lower end of severity, in terms of the extent to which the speed limit was exceeded. And further suppose that this someone's DMV record is completely clean.

Would it be a ridiculous waste of time for this someone to appear in court and plead no contest and humbly ask for dismissal by citing the clean driving record?

If anything go for the "no points" request and be willing to pay the full fine. All they want is your money anyway...

[Dr K]

Someone hypothetically had a similar question 23 years ago. The first ticket wasn't any problem at all, until the next 3...

[Landjet]

Always defend yourself in court. I don't know if Virginia offers it but in Maryland we have what is called "probation before judgment", which is usually given in your situation. It goes on your record as PBJ but no points and only court costs I believe.

And DrK is right, you never know what could happen in the next month. Cops can say and do anything they want.

[eyeball kid]

Every hypothetical speeding ticket I've received in the last fifteen years (5 or 6) I've gone to court for. No points yet.

[Cliff Claven]

usually they will let you plead to a lesser offense if you have a clean record. but if the charging officer does not appear it will be dismissed.

[Clarke]

Hypothetically, someone I knew plead guilty to the speeding, to be offered "driving school" to retain a clean record after giving the court proof of successfully completing the class.

You can take the "class" online.

[HoodPin]

Bruce,
Sounds like you've got a good case to beg for the mercy of the court. The clean record will definitely help. But a lot also depends upon the locale and judge; some are in it simply for the revenue. Normally I would recommend hiring an attorney, which the court may see as you supporting ($$$) the legal system...., but a first offense, and apparently minor in nature, makes it less dire. Your call.

But definitely go to court. As mentioned, a failure to appear by the officer will result in a dismissal. Worst case scenario is probably what you already have to pay. Court gives you a shot at reduced fine and/or point(s).

Good luck.

[Seltzer]

Originally Posted by Mackliet

Hypothetically speaking, suppose someone receives a speeding ticket. Suppose further that the offense - according to the docket of the General District Court - is toward the lower end of severity, in terms of the extent to which the speed limit was exceeded. And further suppose that this someone's DMV record is completely clean.

Would it be a ridiculous waste of time for this someone to appear in court and plead no contest and humbly ask for dismissal by citing the clean driving record?

Didn't I read something recently about how courts are really adding on fees if you decide to show up instead of just paying it?

[cmartin]

I know a guy that went through this last summer. From what I remember the VA judge said points are set in stone, be cut the fee in half. If it's not a pain to get there, go to court. Worst case it's an educational experience.