Getting a speeding ticket can feel stressful. But you don’t have to just pay for it. You can fight it. Contact an experienced speeding ticket lawyer in Kansas City. This guide breaks it down step by step.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Polite
When pulled over, be respectful. Do not argue. Provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance. Stay quiet about the details. You don’t have to admit to speeding. If the officer asks questions like, “Do you know why I stopped you?” it’s okay to say, “I’m not sure.” This avoids saying something that might hurt your case.
Step 2: Check the Ticket
After you get the ticket, read it. Make sure all info is correct. Check your name, car details, date, time, and location. Errors could help your case later. Also, check if the ticket is marked as a traffic infraction or a misdemeanor. This affects how you handle it in court.
Step 3: Decide to Fight
If you think the ticket is wrong or unfair, you can fight it. Fighting may take time, but it could save you points and money.
Ask yourself: Was the sign easy to see? Was the officer’s view blocked? Did something unusual happen? These answers may help you win.
Step 4: Learn the Law
Look up Missouri traffic laws. Each law has a number. The ticket will list the code they say you broke. Read that code. Make sure it fits your case. You can find Missouri statutes online. Search for the chapter that matches your code. Knowing the law helps you spot mistakes in the charge.
Step 5: Gather Evidence
Write down everything you remember. Time, weather, traffic, speed signs, and road conditions. Take photos of the spot if you can. Get dashcam footage if available. You can also draw a diagram of the road and where your car was. Mark signs, traffic lights, and other details. This helps the judge understand your side.
Step 6: Ask for a Court Date
Missouri gives you the option to fight in court. You need to plead not guilty. This can often be done online or by mail. Then you’ll get a court date. The court may mail you a notice or call you. Keep an eye on your mail and phone. Missing the date can lead to bigger problems.
Step 7: Prepare Your Defense
You have choices. You can hire an experienced speeding ticket lawyer in Kansas City or defend yourself. If you defend yourself, bring all your notes and photos. Plan what to say.
Common Defenses
- Speed sign was hidden or unclear
- You were going the same speed as others
- Road conditions made safe driving slower
- Officer made a mistake with radar or pacing
- You were trying to avoid a hazard or danger
Bring any witness who saw what happened. If a friend or passenger can support your story, ask them to come with you.
Step 8: Go to Court
Dress neatly. Be on time. Be polite. Speak clearly. Present your facts. Show any evidence you have. Do not interrupt. Listen to the officer’s side. Then calmly give your side. Stick to the facts. Don’t try to make excuses. The judge may rule right away or later. If you lose, you can ask for a different trial. That is called a trial de novo.
Step 9: Consider Trial De Novo
If you lose your first hearing, you can ask for a new trial. You must do this within 10 days. This second trial takes place in circuit court. You will likely face the same officer again. But this time, you may want to get a lawyer. Circuit court can be more formal.
Step 10: What Happens After
If you win, the ticket is dismissed. No fine. No points. If you lose, you may pay a fine and get points on your license.
Points in Missouri
- Speeding 1-5 mph over limit: 2 points
- Speeding 6-25 mph over: 3 points
- Over 25 mph: 4 points
Too many points can lead to license suspension. If you get 8 points in 18 months, your license may be suspended. After 12 points in 12 months, you may lose your license for a year.
Tips to Help Your Case
- Be honest, not emotional
- Stay calm in court
- Don’t admit fault on the spot
- Keep all paperwork
- Get a copy of the officer’s report
- Practice what you will say before court
You can also visit the court before your date to see how things work. Watch how others present their cases.
When to Get a Lawyer
If you face high fines or risk losing your license, get a lawyer. A knowledgeable license back lawyer in Kansas City knows how the court works. They may get your ticket dropped or reduced. Lawyers can also spot problems in how the ticket was written. Sometimes, they can find small errors that make the ticket invalid.
What if You Can’t Go to Court?
You might be able to send a written plea. Some courts allow phone or video hearings. Check with the court listed on your ticket. If you’re sick or have a real emergency, call the court. They may let you move your date.
Can You Do Traffic School?
Yes, if the court allows it. This can keep points off your record. You still pay the fine but avoid long-term trouble with insurance rates. Some courts offer online traffic school. Ask the judge or court clerk if this is an option.
FAQs About Fighting Speeding Tickets in Missouri
1. Can I fight a speeding ticket without going to court?
Yes. Some areas let you mail in a not guilty plea or appear by video. Contact the court on your ticket to ask.
2. What happens if I miss my court date?
Missing court can lead to a warrant or extra fines. Call the court right away if you can’t make it.
3. How often do people win these cases?
It depends. People with strong evidence or help from a lawyer win more often. Poor records and weak defense make winning harder.
4. Will my insurance go up after a speeding ticket?
Usually, yes. If the ticket adds points to your record, your insurance company may raise your rate.
5. Can I ask the officer not to show up?
No. But if the officer doesn’t show, your case might be dismissed. Still, show up prepared.
Fighting a speeding ticket in Missouri takes effort. But with the right steps, you can lower or avoid the penalty. Always stay calm and be ready. Know your rights. Follow the process. You might walk away with a clean record.