Q: Could a prosecutor amend a speeding ticket that was reduced, if I contest it?
I was stopped by a state trooper for speeding and was issued a ticket for 9 mile over the limit, noting that the trooper claimed I was going faster.. I have a clean driving record and do not want a conviction. I am unemployed due to COVID and cannot afford a lawyer. If I contest this hoping to get a plea, could the prosecutor amend the ticket to the higher speed? What is the likely outcome if I were to contest the citation?
A: It is unlikely that the prosecutor would amend the ticket simply because you set the matter on for a court hearing to try and keep the matter off of your record. However, I would expect that if you were unable to resolve the matter and it was set for trial that the ticket could be amended.
A: I have not seen a prosecutor amend a ticket in this manner due to a hearing being scheduled. However, I would be prepared for the prosecutor to amend if you proceed to trial on the matter.
A: If your goal is to keep it off of your driver's license record (it is for most), then research a Minnesota "Dimmler law" outcome. If the ticket qualifies, you might not need to go to court to accomplish that. Otherwise, you have nothing to lose by contesting it. What's the worst that could happen? Go to court. Try to get a "keep it off my record" deal from the prosecutor. Otherwise, just set it for trial and try to win the case. Questions? Check out mysite for more, and-or call me.
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