Is It Worth It to Go to Court for a Simple Speeding Ticket?
You’re driving through Virginia, maybe a bit over the speed limit, when flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror. You’re given a ticket, and now you’re faced with a choice—pay the fine and move on, or go to court and fight. Before deciding, consider how paying it impacts your future.
Going to court for a speeding ticket allows you to protect your record and potentially reduce fines rather than automatically accepting penalties. When you challenge a ticket, you’re not just facing a fine—you’re fighting to prevent points that could impact your driving record, insurance, and finances.
Should I Plead Guilty to a Speeding Ticket in Virginia?
When you receive a speeding ticket, you have two options: plead guilty and pay the fine or fight the charge in court. If you plead guilty, you’ll face the full penalty, including fines, demerit points on your license, and potential insurance increases. In Virginia, even a minor speeding offense can add up to six demerit points and remain on your record for five years, while the conviction itself may affect your record for several more.
Contesting the ticket in court opens the door to alternative outcomes. You might negotiate lower points, fines, or both in certain situations. With a strong case or clean driving record, a skilled attorney might be able to dismiss the charge entirely.
Do You Have to Go to Court for a Speeding Ticket If You Pay It?
One common question is: If you pay for your ticket, do you still need to go to court? Typically, paying the fine means you won’t have to appear in court. But be aware that paying is a guilty plea, which results in the full penalty and impacts your record and insurance.
For serious offenses, like speeding over 20 mph above the limit or exceeding 85 mph, court attendance may still be required even if you pay. The state treats these cases seriously, sometimes as misdemeanors. If you’re charged with reckless driving, simply paying the ticket isn’t an option. You’ll need to appear in court for your criminal reckless driving charge, and having an attorney can be essential to protecting your record. An attorney may even be able to appear in court without you attending.
Going to Court for Speeding Ticket: What to Expect
Knowing what to expect can make the process smoother if you decide to contest your speeding ticket in court. Virginia traffic court is often straightforward, but your experience may vary based on your specific case and jurisdiction.
Here’s what a typical court visit might look like if you choose to go to court for a speeding ticket.
For a minor speeding ticket in Virginia, the ticket itself will have a court date listed on the “Virginia Uniform Summons.” This is your trial date. If you intend to fight the case or ask the judge for a break, you should show up on that date, prepared with your evidence or arguments.
In many courts, if you show up the first time and ask for more time to get a lawyer, the judge will often grant that request. However, the judge can deem you to have waived your right to counsel and proceed without a lawyer.
The Potential Consequences of Not Going to Court
While paying a speeding ticket and avoiding court may seem easier, missing out on a chance to contest your ticket could lead to significant consequences. Demerit points can impact your insurance, and a record with multiple offenses can limit your driving privileges. In Virginia, excessive speeding may even be charged as reckless driving, leading to fines, license suspension, and a criminal record. For many drivers, a single court appearance can be a wise investment.
Ignoring a required court appearance can have even more severe repercussions. Virginia law allows the court to issue a bench warrant if you fail to appear, potentially leading to arrest and suspension of your driver’s license.
When Is Going to Court for a Speeding Ticket Worth It?
For minor speeding infractions, the time and effort to contest a ticket may seem overwhelming, but if there’s a reasonable chance of reducing penalties or avoiding points, it could be worth the investment. Each case is unique, but generally, the more severe the offense, the more you stand to gain by defending your case. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can amplify your chances of a favorable outcome.
Don’t Let a Simple Speeding Ticket Turn Into a Long-Term Hassle
A simple speeding ticket shouldn’t be a long-term burden on your record. At Flusche & Fitzgerald, we know Virginia traffic court and can guide you toward the best possible outcome. Whether it’s reducing fines, keeping points off your record, or fighting for dismissal, we’re ready to protect your driving record and peace of mind. Contact us today to start building your defense.
Resources:
- Pay Your Traffic Ticket Online. Virginia Judicial System Court Self-Help, link
- Virginia Code 19.2-254.1 link
- Moving Violations and Point Assessments. Virginia DMV, link
- Speed Limit FAQ. Virginia Roads, link
