Q: Going 84 in a 55
I was given a speeding ticket in March of 2016 for going 14 mph over the speed limit, I paid the ticket and went to traffic school. In June of 2016 I was given a speeding ticket for going 84 in a 55. (was speeding because I had kidneystones, but nonetheless speeding) The policeman told me that I did not have a court appearance and that I just had to send in money with the ticket. I called the courthouse and they told me I had to appear in front of a judge and plead guilty or not guilty and he decides my punishment. I do not know what to expect for the punishment or if I should get a lawyer.
A:
Hello Asker,
I would suggest speaking to an attorney because it is a serious violation. The speed as it is written is a class B Criminal Misdemeanor. It is punishable by up to $1,500 and/or 6 months in jail. While jail is rare, the prospect of a criminal conviction is something to be taken seriously. Regardless of if you choose to hire an attorney, I can say these three things for certain:
1). You cannot mail in the ticket because a court appearance is required for violations such as this
2). You do have a court date despite what the officer states and failing to appear will result in a warrant for your arrest
3). You can contact the clerk of the circuit court in the county in which the ticket was issued to find out your court date. By Supreme Court Rule, the court date should occur within 14-60 days of the issue date so time is running out to get that court date so you don't miss it.
Hope that helps and let me know if you have any additional questions.
Sincerely,
Jason A. Wilkins
Traffic Attorney
(630) 445-2293
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