Probably not. By the sounds of it, it’s “just” traffic court… You’ll be herded into a courtroom with a couple dozen others, and each of you will be called in turn to speak to the judge. Kinda like a pop quiz. You’ll be told your charge and be asked a few questions. If you’re polite and genuine you’ll likely get off easy, since people LOVE to fight back and dig their hole deeper.
Back in high school I was in a similar situation, and basically got it completely dismissed because I was young and it was my first ever infraction.
IANAL
Aeao@lemmy.world 1 week ago
Yeah,.even ignoring the joke comments that are funny, alot of people are saying I should fight. I doubt that would be a good idea. It was an honest mistake and I’ve got a clean record. I think being honest is my best bet.
CosmicTurtle0@lemmy.dbzer0.com 1 week ago
Traffic court, while yes it’s a court of law, is a bit more relaxed. Judges have far more leeway and they have a long docket.
You’re not the only one being seen and the judge wants to go home on time.
Be honest, courteous. In the rare event that the police officer starts saying things that are completely egregious, plead the fifth and ask for a continuance. Tell the judge that these facts are new to you and you’ll need time to assert a defense.
The judge may ask what you thought the charges were. Say something along the lines of, “Without waiving my fifth amendment right to self incrimination, my understanding is that I’m being charged for driving with an expired license.”
But this should be rare. Judges don’t like surprises either.
Again, remember that this is traffic court. Everyone is busy. If you’re a dick, they won’t have patience for you.
deranger@sh.itjust.works 1 week ago
I went to court for a traffic ticket and the cop didn’t show up, so I didn’t get charged with anything. Poof, gone. Just be honest and courteous and you’ll be as fine as you can be given the situation.
thermal_shock@lemmy.world 1 week ago
if you didn’t go to jail, not that big of a deal. get it fixed, go to court and explain. mistakes happen, you didn’t run anyone over. you might get a fine, shit happens.
Cadeillac@lemmy.world 1 week ago
I’ve heard of people having luck going in with their renewed license. I can’t attest to it personally, and of course your mileage may vary
thermal_shock@lemmy.world 1 week ago
this is what I’d do. especially if it was an honest mistake, fix it, show you’re not a problem, move on.