Traffic court?

Question

I'm sorry I was not clear in my initial question.

If the officer doesn't show up on my designated court date the violation will be thrown out. If the officer DOES show up I will be given the option of proceeding to court to fight the allegation OR just paying the ticket and leaving (without going in front of the judge).

It is already indicated on my ticket that I am eligible for the Safe Driver Diversion Program. My question is If I chose not to appear in front of the judge and just pay the fine on the spot will the ticket be reported to the DMV or will it still fall under this program and not be reported? I wasn't sure if this eligibility was only offered to people who paid their fine prior to their court date. Does that make more sense?

Answer 1

You don't say what state you live in but every state I have lived in has a web site that pretty clearly explains options  like yours and the results for each.

Have you looked at your state's traffic violations area on their website?

Answer 2

You will need to go to court in person to make sure that you do qualify for this, never assume, better safe than sorry.

Also if you do qualify and complete the course then the DMV will not know anything.............

Answer 3

OK, I can only speak for California..........do the traffic school if you are eligible.  Keeps it off your record or at least shows as dismissed and doesn't affect you insurance, whatever the traffic school costs, it is better.  If you have to talk to the judge to get the 'Safe Driver Diversion Program', do it.  However, yes, if you fight it and the officer doesn't show up, you are dismissed, good!  But, you might loose your option to go to traffic school.