I received a speeding ticket on June 27, 2010 on Roswell Rd for doing 64 in a 35 zone - City of Sandy Springs. My court date was July 26, 2010 and I was able to get a new court date Aug 25, 2010 - next week due to a Dr. Appointment. I had my Dr's office send a fax to the court. I also have a Dr. appointment next week on the 25th and I am seriously considering the same thing - basically delaying the court date and putting it off as long as I can. I am also considering just showing up to court and hoping the officer does not show up - his name and Badge # are on the ticket. What are my best odds for beating the rap on this traffic ticket - delay or show up on the 25th and cross my fingers?

Before you can play the game of judicial “cat & mouse”, you must first appear in court and request a bench trial. Only then will the officer be required to show up. You may want to try a more successful strategy. Speak to the prosecutor (“solicitor”) and ask them to reduce your speed to 49 in a 35mph zone. By knocking the speed down to 14mph over the speed limit, it won’t show up on your record in exchange for you paying a modest fine. If they won’t agree to this scenario, ask for a jury trial and your case will be sent to the Fulton Co State Court. You’ll find that court to be much more flexible.  

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