Should I appeal my (MA) speeding ticket or just pay it?

by **aswynn81** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 5:12 am

I live in Massachusetts, I'm 20 years old and was pulled over for the first time on the Mass Pike last Friday. Going 89 in a 65, (24 mph over) meaning the fine is $240. I'm hearing a bunch of different opinions on whether or not I should fight it. I'm hearing there is now a $50 "court filing" fee if I choose to appeal, and I read online myself that the judge can apply fees if my case is ridiculous. It was obviously a state cop, and going that much over the speed limit does anyone really think I will get out of it? probably not, but it might be lowered right? and it could be worth a shot to save the points on my license. 2 points correct?

Just looking for some insight. Don't really have an excuse as to why I was going that fast, he was using lidar but it says estimated on the ticket. If he doesn't show up do I automatically win? any break because it's my first offense?

by **darce** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 5:14 am

Since your insurance rates will DOUBLE for five years always appeal.

by **adare** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 5:17 am

Unfortunately, it is your word against his. And unless you have some sort of proof or another factor that discredits the cop's word the judge will side with the cop. However, as far as lowering it you might have a chance if you are on a limited income. Like if you are a student. However, don't figure on that happening, it is the judges final say and you admitted on here that you are guilty.

by **karlitis** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 5:30 am

Pull up your big girl panties and accept the consequences of your actions. Your admitting that all you want to do is get out a situation that you put yourself in. Adults accept this responsibility and step up and deal with it. Kids want to try and get out of it or lessen the consequences. So which are you?

by **celeste** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 5:41 am

Go talk to them in person before the court date. Usually first offenders just get driving school, but in your case not sure since you were going so far over the limit. If you go talk to them, tell them you are sorry and will never do it again, it might help.

by **fychan97** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 5:51 am

Pay it and then go take defensive driving. I fought the law and the law won was a good old song.

by **max** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 5:58 am

Pay it and then go take defensive driving. I fought the law and the law won was a good old song.

You have nothing lose in trying to get the fine lowered by showing up to court.

by **colum** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 6:00 am

It's probably a bad idea to fight the ticket. In Massachusetts the ticket itself is evidence of guilt and unless you have proof the officer made a mistake you won't win. You apparently were guilty so a better idea is to approach the prosecutor before hand and plea bargain for a non moving violation so your driving record and insurance won't be affected. The bargain is usually for a bigger fine but no record of the violation.

It might be worthwhile to spend a few hundred dollars on a lawyer to plea bargain for you or at least to speak to a lawyer before doing anything on your own.

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