Advice for a failure to appear in California?

Question

I had outdated registration, got pulled over, got my car towed. To retrieve my car, I first had to show proof at the police station that I'd updated everything. That was months ago. The other day, I received a citation that said I owe $800 for failure to appear in court. Yeah, I know I'm an idiot for thinking this, but I honestly thought everything had been sorted out when I showed my new registration at the police station, despite my actual ticket saying I had to appear at the courthouse. If I pay within the next few days, the charge will be brought down to $500, or I can schedule a court hearing. I'm a full-time student with a job that pays $100 a week, so clearly this is a big hit. If I take the court date, the judge may let me off for less than $500, but might very well charge me the full $800. This is in Beverly Hills, if that makes any difference. Advice?

Answer 1

You have to go back to court only a judge can lower or dismiss the fine.  You can also ask the judge if you could do community service in lieu of the fine.  Bring your registration, a pay stub from your job to prove how much you make, your class schedule to prove your a student.  Remember be honest & respectful.  No attitude and be prepared to pay if it comes to that.  

Answer 2

Go to court and explain yourself. It's your best bet. I highly doubt the judge will slam you with the whole $800.00.

Answer 3

most of the 800 is the assesment for fta. go to court, show that the reg is clear and the judge should reduce the fine back to what is was.

Answer 4

speak with the court clerk

Answer 5

Call the court.

My guess is you can appear in front of the judge as long as you are at the courthouse before 8:00 am.  Tell your story.  If you're honest and convincing, you just might get that fine reduced.