CuckoosNest
Member
State: NY
In August of last year, I was pulled over by a NY State Trooper on a rural route near our home. Initially, he stated I was speeding (although he didn't have radar and didn't pace me.) Then he stated that I wasn't wearing my seat belt (I was), but that a seat belt violation would be way cheaper and wouldn't involve points on my license. The whole thing was very weird, but I figured I just do what this guy said and plead guilty, hoping the fine wouldn't be too heinous... it's rural NY after all.
Three weeks later, I received a letter from the Town Court; although it stated that I should pay the fine by the due date shown, the disposition of the violation was left blank, the fine and surcharge areas listed 0.00, and it clearly stated "no money due" with no due date listed. I assumed the ticket had been thrown out by the Town Justice once he realized I was a local. I heard nothing else from them.
Five-and-a-half months later (today), I receive a threatening letter from the Court Clerk stating that I have to pay the fine immediately or my license will be revoked. The disposition now says "Fine/SC", the fine is $50.00 and the surcharge is $93.00 (still no due date to be found.)
I'm obviously going to call them on Monday and explain why I didn't respond to their first letter. My question is: If they decide to demand the $143.00, do I have a leg to stand on in getting the ticket thrown out?
Many thanks.
In August of last year, I was pulled over by a NY State Trooper on a rural route near our home. Initially, he stated I was speeding (although he didn't have radar and didn't pace me.) Then he stated that I wasn't wearing my seat belt (I was), but that a seat belt violation would be way cheaper and wouldn't involve points on my license. The whole thing was very weird, but I figured I just do what this guy said and plead guilty, hoping the fine wouldn't be too heinous... it's rural NY after all.
Three weeks later, I received a letter from the Town Court; although it stated that I should pay the fine by the due date shown, the disposition of the violation was left blank, the fine and surcharge areas listed 0.00, and it clearly stated "no money due" with no due date listed. I assumed the ticket had been thrown out by the Town Justice once he realized I was a local. I heard nothing else from them.
Five-and-a-half months later (today), I receive a threatening letter from the Court Clerk stating that I have to pay the fine immediately or my license will be revoked. The disposition now says "Fine/SC", the fine is $50.00 and the surcharge is $93.00 (still no due date to be found.)
I'm obviously going to call them on Monday and explain why I didn't respond to their first letter. My question is: If they decide to demand the $143.00, do I have a leg to stand on in getting the ticket thrown out?
Many thanks.
