Q: Should I ask for a prayer for judgement doing 15 mph over the speed limit? This is my very first Traffic violation

A: No - that would likely be a dumb thing to do. First, a PJC isn't something you are entitled to you have to request it and each Judge has their own criteria for granting a PJC - so you have to know what the Judge hearing your case requires to even make the request properly. Second, you and anyone who shares your insurance policy is limited to only one PJC during any three year period (for insurance purposes) so it is best to save the PJC for when you really really need it. 15 over is likely an infraction and there is usually no good reason to waste a PJC on an infraction. Your best bet is to hire a local traffic attorney to have your ticket reduced to a non-moving violation like Improper Equipment (assuming the DA in your district allows that). Best of luck.

A: I generally agree with what Attorney Houser suggests. I would, however, also take into consideration the county in which you received the ticket. Some counties, such as Buncombe, only allow one improper equipment (I.E.) every three years. So, if you receive another ticket two years after using your I.E., your only option would be to use a prayer for judgment continued (P.J.C.). And, as Ms. Houser indicated, P.J.C.s are discretionary. In other words, the judge may not give you one, especially if he or she sees that your reduction to an I.E. was from a high speed ticket. As Ms. Houser suggests, it really would be smart to hire a local attorney who is familiar with your judicial district.