Downers Grove, IL asked in Traffic Tickets for Illinois

Q: Can I get out of paying traffic ticket if judge forgot to have me sign the court order?

I recently went to court for improper passing of an emergency vehicle (officer stated “you got over but not far enough”). It is a pretty hefty fine. There were close to 500 people in the court room that day so everything was rushed. When my turn came up the local prosecutor was distracted and handed in my court order without me signing it (looked like everyone else had to sign). Does this mean I can claim I didn’t understand the terms of the order and don’t need to pay?

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3 Lawyer Answers
Theodore J. Harvatin
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Answered
  • Traffic Tickets Lawyer
  • Springfield, IL
  • Licensed in Illinois

A: Even if that worked, the best you would get out of it is a do-over. And most likely with an irate judge and prosecutor.

Juan Ooink agrees with this answer

Brandon K. Davis
PREMIUM
Brandon K. Davis
Answered
  • Traffic Tickets Lawyer
  • Waukegan, IL
  • Licensed in Illinois

A: Maybe not but the final result may be worse once your case ends up back in court.

Juan Ooink agrees with this answer

Juan Ooink
Juan Ooink
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Bolingbrook, IL
  • Licensed in Illinois

A: No, pay the fine and be done with it. Failure to pay will likely result in an increased fine.

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