First Traffic Ticket

I got a ticket for running a red light a month ago. I am pleading Not Guilty. I had a meeting with a prosecutor today. I was open to settling out of court if the fine was low and it wouldn't be on my record. She offered to keep it off my record, but the fine was pretty high. So I decided to gamble and take it court. If the judge finds me guilty he gets to pick what the fine will be and it will be on my record. So worst-case scenario is that I end up paying more than the prosecutor offered today and it is on my record. Best-case scenario is the cop doesn't show up or the judge dismisses the case. I am REALLY hoping the cop doesn't show up and I don't even have to plead my case, but the police station is next to the municipal court building so the chances of that may be low. There isn't much I can do except show up to court and tell my side of the story. The rest is out of my hands, so I am trying not to worry about it.

The prosecutor was very polite to me, which was a relief. I had heard that prosecutors can be mean and tell you that you are guilty and have no chance in court. I wish she had offered me a better deal, but at least she wasn't rude.

Once I go to court I'll let you know how this thing turns out.


City of Austin gets tough on crime