speeding ticket

i received a speeding ticket on march 31, 2001 doing 50mph in a 35mph zone in union county, north carolina. the officer mentioned since i only have 1 previous ticket issued in 1997 that i have several options: a) pay the ticket by mail(pay fines + $200/yr insurance increase for 3yrs), b) appear in court and ask for a reduction in the charge(pay fines but does not go on insurance) or c) go to traffic school(insurance agent suggested i save in case of a more serious violation in the future). i've never been to court before. do i just ask the judge for a reduction in the charge? do i need to get a lawyer? any advice would be greatly appreciated.

since your last violation was 1997 i would take my chances going to court. if you're able to ask for a formal hearing more than likely you would be able to talk to the prosecuting attorney. you could ask for a lesser charge that would be a non-point offense and/or , pay the fine. It's better than going in there and admitting to guilt that will cost you not only in monies but also the points you would rack up and your insurance rates soar. my advice would also include to get legal advice most attorneys will give you free consultation. it maybe a hassle to go through getting free advice, and going to court but exactly what do you have to lose?

i'm going through a problem with my son on a moving violation "failure to stop entering roadway" this is his first offense and i consulted an attorney for free advice and they suggested what i'm suggesting to you. 1st seek free advice, ask them if you could ask for a formal hearing and to speak with the prosecuting attorney to try to get an lesser offense something where no or lesser points would be involved. the worst that could probably happen is that you would get stuck with the original charge and you could ask for another court date and hire and attorney. from my attorney all tickets are worth disputing! GOOD-LUCK