How To Beat A Traffic Ticket in Toronto
Before you get all excited, there is no real way to beat the system. But there are things that you can do to help yourself from being completely shafted.
1. Never pay the fine outright.
If you pay your ticket without going to court, your conviction will register immediately and you’re pretty much screwed with your insurance. So even if you get a ticket for 10 over, don’t pay it. Take it to court. Why you ask? Because your conviction will only register after you have been found guilty. With the state of the court system today, that can be up to a year or more before you go in front of a judge.
So let’s say you got charged with not stopping at a stop sign even though you did stop. You can’t fight it because they’ll always believe the cop in court but you can limit the insurance penalty.
Even if you’re found guilty in court, the points will go on your record only after the conviction so they may only stay on your record for 6 – 8 months if the courts are jammed enough. This is because the points are based on the offence date and not the conviction date.
2. Go to court and look and listen for the cop.
The prosecutor will check in with all the cops. It helps if you can memorize the cops face when he stops you but he’ll say his Officer Number to the prosecutor to check in so listen carefully. If he’s not in court, your charges will be dismissed. This has worked for me 7 times in the past. Cops don’t always come to court. Sometimes they are busy or have to work and so on. If you’re really polite when they stop you, they may note it down and not bother to come if it’s just the one case.
3. When in doubt, bargain.
The prosecutors are lazy. They just want the conviction for their stats so they’d rather not sit there actually doing their job. They want to bargain with you and go to lunch early. You can usually get minor secondary offences dismissed and reduce your charge if you agree to plead guilty.
4. Stay away from those ticket services.
If you hire one of those “We’ll get you off for any violation” people, they really won’t do much for you but take your money for doing what you could basically do yourself.
5. If you have time and friends, stall.
If you have an agent that is willing to go in for you, you can try stalling by having them tell the JP that you are really sick with diarrhoea or something else disgusting and believable then ask for a new date. Stalling not only adds more time from your offence date to the conviction but it also increases the chance that the officer won’t show up. But don’t have your agent talk to the prosecutor in this case or he/she will know what’s going on. There is always the chance that the JP won’t believe your agent in which case he’ll have to say that he is not prepared to proceed and you may get convicted anyway. In that case, take the time it took to get to court as a bonus and be happy with that.
6. It’s your Worship not your Honour.
Apparently they get very testy about this. The traffic court has a Justice of the Peace (JP) and you refer to them as Your Worship. The criminal courts have judges and they are Your Honour. Holy crap talk about an ego trip. In any case, you won’t get a fair shake from either because in my experience, they always believe the cop over you. So no point in pissing them off further. Just remember to call him Your Worship and you’ll be fine.
7. An excuse is not the law.
If you have an excuse for doing what you did, it won’t matter so don’t waste your breath. They just go by the law like some kind of idiot robot. There is no room for humanity in the court so even if your baby was dying, they’ll convict you because you technically broke the law when speeding to the hospital. It’s best to try to prepare based on the actual law if you plan to fight the charge.
To sum it up. Basically, just go to court for any offence. The $20 extra for court fees and so on are well worth the insurance premium over a year with points on your record.
If you have a serious conviction like DUI or something, go talk to a lawyer right after your AA meeting. I only intend this advice for minor traffic offences. Good luck.
September 13th, 2007 at 2:33 pm
You missed one thing.. order the officers descloser as it may have some clues for you to argue in court.
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:57 pm
Terrific Advice; If only I knew before. I’ve got way too many tickets to handle; i can’t even keep track.
Questions:
1. How Do you delay a court date? and when?
2. How and and WHEN do I call in sick (if I don’t have an agent)
3. Can you call in sick or delay going to court, on the day of the court trial? This is because If I see my officer there; is it still possible to excuse myself from court? (without an agent).
Lastly,How do I order this “Officers Disclosure”?
Thanks; any detailed advice would help. You guys are the best. Hugs.
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:11 pm
Hi Godzilla,
Thanks for the positive feedback. Unfortunately we’re not lawyers so I don’t have an answer for all your questions but in general my experience has been that you must have an agent in court for them to do anything. I don’t think you can do anything over the phone. An agent can be anyone. A family member, a friend or anybody that can appear and speak on your behalf. Sometimes the delay doesn’t work even with an agent so you are really just trying your luck. It’s worked 7 times for me in the past out of 9 so the odds are actually pretty good.
To get the disclosure you probably have to go to the court house and order one. They need to put the request into the prosecutor. Go by your court office and ask them for the details.
Good luck.
May 29th, 2008 at 10:41 pm
Hi there,
I recently got charged with disobey stop sign at an intersection. Now here is the deal. There is no getting around the fact that I went through this sign however it is in an odd place in fact the intersection follows a bend in the Road and the 3 way intersection is more like a y than instead of two perpendicular roads intersecting one another. Coming around the bend it is difficult to see the stop sign and furthermore it is nestled amidst the bushes and vegetation making it difficult to see. One more thing there is no white line indicating where to stop how do we deal with this? I went through and the cop well was being a cop so to speak. He was gentlemanly but his partner seemed to play the abusive role but that is nore here nor there. Is there a way to have this charge removed and stricken from my record?
May 29th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
Hi Marco,
Unfortunately I’ve never had to deal with that type of ticket so I’m not entirely sure how to handle it. Your best bet would be to go and take some photos of the road and the blocked stop sign. I’m sure that you can be creative with the angles to your advantage. If you can show that the sign was not visible and that there is no line on the road to indicate a sign, you should be able to get off since it’s not your responsibility to put up proper markings and signs.
In either case, you should fight it. The delay alone will make it come off your record much faster than if you pay it outright even if you lose. But if you go in with photographic evidence, there is not much the cop will have to say. All they bring is their little notebooks. You should also jot down the events so you have a clear recollection of what happened and use it in court.
Good luck.
January 14th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
What about the Askov decision? I’ve heard that if it takes them over a year for you to receive your court date, you can use that to have it canceled. Do you have any input on that?
January 22nd, 2009 at 10:27 am
What if I got caught driving without insurance, what can I do to fight it or even decrease the fine?
January 22nd, 2009 at 4:49 pm
i got a court date for may 11th 2009 when the offence was april.2008
isnt that too long
January 28th, 2009 at 7:41 am
Johny,
Fight driving without insurance charge. Go and see someone.
If you were caught driving a car or other motorvehicle uninsurred then you can be in some serious trouble. Driving a vehicle uninsured will typically have a first time fine of $5000 plus Court costs of $1250 in Ontario.
January 28th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
I got charged with Disobey Stop Sign last winter (3 points and $110.00 fine)
Made a date with the Ontario court system and had a court date a year later.
Went to court, they gave me two options
1) Go to trial and risk being change with the full points and the full fine.
2) Ask for a point reduction.
I went with option 2, when I took the stand, had to plead guilty.
Go off with zero points and had to pay $55.00 [$40.00( Fine)+$5.00(Court charge)+$10.00(surcharge)]
Only one person in my group went to trial (For not wearing a seat belt), Judge end up charging him for the ticket and points.
January 28th, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Roey
Court date is not too long, In the pass 10 years, I got charge twice and both court dates where year +, in the pass you could book a night court, do not have that option anymore.
February 5th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
I would like to know how accurate are the Radar guns that they point to you. I was driving on a crowded road where other cars were driving at the same time. The officer that stoped me is always standing at the same spot and knowing that I was not speeding. He showed me the Radar screen showing 69 kilometers in an area of 50 for 213 meters. I could not believe it as well as my passanger. Is there a way to fight this?
Who do I complain to? Ombudsman? Police services?
April 13th, 2009 at 10:05 pm
Radars read the largest fastest moving vehicle so you should try arguing that there were larger vehicles driving around you and you have the advantage of a passenger who is your witness
April 16th, 2009 at 5:01 pm
I am planning to take my stop sigh ticket to court. If I am offered a reduced fine with no demerit points but must plead guilty, should I take it? Will my insurance still consider this a violation?
May 12th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Good on ya mate, this article’s great, and lol@your worship. I had no idea.
http://fightmyticket.ca
September 15th, 2009 at 2:03 am
Why did you guys stop writing, this is such supportive talk. Here is my dilema in north york
I recieved today going 94 in a 60 zone.
The cost is 259 total payable ( although 200 is the fine)
Did not give me a break but scribbled 2 speeds on the ticket 80 in 60 then cut out the 80 and made it 94
Do u think I stand a chance in eliminating this ticket
I had a ticekt ayear ago which was similar offence and reduced to running a stop sign ( i believe 2 points)
Thanks in advance
Mo
November 21st, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Hi, I recently got my first ticket for disobeying a sign. The officer already took me off the hook with failure to slow down and stop right away (I panicked), which is going to be 6 demerit points!
I am thinking of going to court for my ticket that has the $110 fine and 2 demerit points. Is there any chance that the officer would remember me and charge me with the 6 demerit points when I take it to court?
Thanks in advance!
November 21st, 2009 at 9:33 pm
Hi Sophia. The officers often tell that to people so they’ll just pay the fine and not contest the charge in court. The ticket that you have been charged with is the charge you are going to face. The officer cannot retroactively charge you and he has no control over the legal proceedings. The court appearance is between you, the prosecutor and the justice of the peace. The officer is there as a witness and nothing more.
If you have the time to contest it, you can usually work out a deal with the prosecutor for a lesser fine. Even if you fight it, the JP will sometimes reduce the charge. But of course this depends on who you get. Some of them are not, how shall I put it, very pleasant. But if you can make the case that it would create financial hardship or if you’re a student or something they take it into consideration. But you cannot be charged with additional charges without new evidence and it certainly won’t happen during your court appearance so please don’t worry about that.
Good luck with your ticket.
December 10th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
I was issued a speeding ticket – 153/100 – by the OPP some years ago during one of their speeding blitz. I requested for a trial since I believe I was innocent of the charge.
Before the trial begun, the prosecutor asked me whether I would like to plead guilty in exchange for a lesser charge. I turned it down since I was quite confident of my position and the planned testimony of my witness who was the front seat passenger when we were stopped.
When the trial commenced, my witness and I observed that the officer, who gave me the ticket, was not present with the other OPP officers in the court room.
When my trial begun, I started off reading my prepared statement stating the points why I thought I was innocent of the charge.
The prosecutor interjected that all the points I was reading off were hearsay even if they were researched information.
The JP upheld the prosecutor, admonished me to discontinue my testimony.
As a last ditch effort, I stated to the judge that the ticket-issuing officer was not present. When I stated to the JP that my witness was ready to corroborate my allegation, the JP did not agree to let my witness testify.
An OPP officer came forward, stating that he was the officer and presented to the JP and even to me his ID papers which the prosecutor and the JP upheld despite my vocal protestation.
I was found guilty and had my license suspended together with the corresponding fines and subsequent increased insurance premium.
- prior notice was given to the prosecutor about my witness’ intent to testify; did the JP have the judicial right to prevent my witness from testifying and also to cut short my testimony when the prosecutor interjected that it was all based on hearsay?
in hindsight, my witness and I deducted that the OPP officer – who was with some other OPP officers in their position – who gave the ticket might have done so on behalf of one of his co-officers who was the officer present during the trial.
Do I have grounds for a re-trial based on the pertinent information I cited?
Is it within the statute of limitations to have it re-tried?
If affirmative on both questions, is it winnable in a re-trial and is it worth it?
Thank you for any enlightenment.
December 10th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Hi George,
That was extremely unfair and should not have happened to you. It just goes to show the level of collusion and corruption in this system. My advice would be to sit down with a lawyer for a consultation and ask him for advice. Whether it’s worth it or not is really up to you. There is no justice in Canada. Only how much justice you can afford to pay for.
Good luck.
December 14th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Hello,
I need a little help. I caused an accident making a left turn into on coming traffic. The person I hit just happened to be my co-worker.
I got a charge of failing to afford reasonalbe oportunity to avoid collision, sect 141(s).
If the co-worker, who is the crown’s witness besides the officer, does not show up to court, can the case be thrown out? The officer was not present at the time of the accident but after the fact. No other witnesses.
What would be the most appropriate defence and next steps?
Thanks in advance.
December 30th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
accident cases are a lot more tricky than a simple traffic ticket. you may want to consult with a professional for that ticket as not only are you charged with the offence, the accident itself can drastically increase your insurance.
if you are going to fight it yourself, having the co-worker not show up would help your matter, but not a 100% guarantee it would be thrown out automatically. definitely can’t hurt though!
January 6th, 2010 at 3:07 am
I was in an accident that police
A car span on black ice going downhill on a slight slope. She blocked off both lanes one way. I was driving behind keeping a decent distance. But when I hit the breaks my car just slid into her, hitting the car on the side. Because she was at an angle my car bounced onto oncoming traffic where I hit another car.
Police did not write any tickets claiming the accented no-fault due to weather conditions. However, insurance company is trying to put the blame on me, because I was coming from behind.
What can be done to make the insurance company not blame me for the accident?
Thanks!!!
January 19th, 2010 at 12:28 pm
Suggestion to all-disclosure disclosure and CAUTION: refuse to go on trial if the disclosure is handed to you at the set court date–ask for remind date– excuse get legal opinion–
Always take the time to observe court cases before your trial. I’m amazed how stupid people can be. All the pralegals rarely fight the ticket–drop one and plied guilty on the others or reduce the speeding charge. Of all the times been in traffic court– Most Paras are useless-only deal makers. I got a ticket to fight to day–parking $60 for loading area. Received Dec 27/08–now Jan 19/10.
In Mississauga the Askov case only works after lapse of 12 months.
Toronto?-Iwill find out.
Re: Askov case–you must have a copy of the case and before the case starts–plead the Askov case.
I might not,but come-up with a question to the Green Hornet–how do you know I was not loading my load ect.
Note: Appeal Appeal–A judge hears the case and most of the time-Dismissed. Sometimes it’s better to pay the ticket–$60 —-you bet {:^/
January 19th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
Side note miss–Wait 2 weeks before trial to ask for the disclosure. Stall Stall Stall
January 24th, 2010 at 2:42 am
hi i have a question i have been driving for over 11 years and i have always had a clean record however that all changed when i was pulled over by a police officer for not wearing a seatbelt but i had a reason because i had something in my pocket and it was bothering me so thats why i took my belt off i even took the item out of my pocket to show the cop to prove i was telling the truth but the cop still gave me a ticket i set a court date and i am pleading not gulity and i am really nervous cause this is my first offence is there a chance my insurence will go up i got the ticket last feb
thanks
February 10th, 2010 at 5:16 pm
I was pulled over today for turning left onto yonge st after exiting gardiner expressway east. For years you could always turn left in 2 lanes now the cop said you can’t turn from the 2nd lane yet no signs i saw and the white line on road still turns to the left. Should the white line not go straight so you don’t cross over it…..
February 10th, 2010 at 5:41 pm
Everyone, visit http://www.ticketcombat.com. All you need to know there.
Fight every ticket you get, even a parking ticket. Make prosecutors work for a conviction.. otherwise people in court are like hens in a slaughter house. Moreover.. a tip, show up late to court, the officer may think you’re a no-show and might leave early. Make the officer wait in court rather than leave early.
February 10th, 2010 at 5:45 pm
A tip.. if you see you’re officer is not present in the court room, your charges will be dismissed. Also, if the prosecutor tries to adjourn (delay) your case to a later date because the officer is not present, refuse and say you’ve already waited long enough to address the issue, and that you want deal with it now. The prosecutor needs the officer as a witness to prove his case against the defendant.
February 17th, 2010 at 4:39 am
i made a left turn but there was a sign saying no left turn except during this time . pls tell me how to fight for this ticket
February 22nd, 2010 at 11:39 am
Hi,
Last night I was pulled over by a cop driving in the highway and he claimed that I was going 147 km/hr and issued me a $347 ticket! I am definitely going to take to court but I just don’t know what are some defense methods that I can use? There is no way I was going that fast maybe around 130 max.
I also noticed that the cop did not ask for my insurance and registration and only asked if it was my car and I said no cause it wasn’t it was my friends. He just took my licencse and came back with the ticket. I’v never been issued a ticket before and have always had a clean record. Please help me out I am a student and can’t afford to go trough all this financial trouble.
February 26th, 2010 at 12:21 pm
Hi,
Your help is appreciated regarding the disclosure request.
I have faxed 2 requiests and for the second one, I got response asking for my phone number. I have faxed the phone number back and have not heard from the prosecutor since.
On the court date, I told the prosecutor that I had not received the disclosure and showed her the fax records but she said she had not received my last fax. The officer who gave me the ticket came over to me and provided the photocopy of his notes and rescheduled a new court date 3 months later.
My question is, should the copy of notes directly from the officer considered the disclosure, or should I continue to ask for the disclosure from the prosecutor?
BTW, the ticket is about fail to stop when meeting school bus on a 5 lane road, which I and my passanger did not see before or after being stopped by the officer.
Thank very much!
March 16th, 2010 at 7:24 pm
Hi: I missed a court date for a traffic violation recently for reasons I won’t go in to. What happens now? Is there anything I should do?
April 12th, 2010 at 3:36 pm
Just last week, I got a traffic ticket for making a left turn during a set hour where you can’t turn at Maxome Ave (near Finch station). When my car was pulled over, I was not sure what is going on. I know that there was a sign for no-right turn, but there was no sign for no left turn. There were over 20 cars stopped that day. During the incident, I do not the chance to take picture of any signs or what so ever. Next day, they placed a no-left turn sign.
I am not too sure how about I’m going at this. Like if there is any possible way to confirm when the sign for no-left turn was placed up. I tried calling my ward MP. But all I was told that after I received a ticket, they have no control over anything. All I can do is go to court and if it is shown that there were many individuals on that day received the no-left turn traffic ticket, then they will look into it. However, how am I suppose to find that out? What to do? Pretty clueless now.
April 12th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
Hi Ling,
Either way you should fight it so it costs the government money. That’s the only way to really put a stop to this. You can also try contacting the city to find out on what day the sign was placed there. With some persistence you can get the information out of the city because they will have a record of any work done on the street.
May 10th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
I was pulled over by a cop who issued me two tickets: one for expired plate permit and another for having a tinted plate cover. He said that he would give me a break and that if I went to the MTO/prosecutor and showed proof (take a picture of my license plate) that I updated my plate permit and got rid of the cover, that I wouldn’t get fined or get any demerit points. Is this just BS? I mean if that’s the case couldn’t he just give me a warning and let me off? How would the prosecutor know to drop all charges?
May 10th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
It is just BS. It’s a way for them to make you feel like you’re catching a break so you won’t fight the other charge. They do it all the time. That’s why traffic cops often ask for your insurance and ownership when they pull you over for speeding or any other offence. It’s easier for them to issue multiple tickets at one time. You should just fight the charges so at least it costs them money instead of making cash off of you. Either way you can’t get a worse fine and you have a chance of getting off.
July 23rd, 2010 at 5:42 am
Recently got a ticket for “fail to stop at red light”. I was making a right hand turn. It was 730 in the morning driving south on Main street at Kingston road. The upcoming traffic light just turned red. Eastbound traffic has an advance green. I did a slow-down observed the advance green and proceeded to turn right. The only other car on the road that Sunday morning was a police officer. Sirens go on I pull over. The officer approaches the car and asks me where I am going – so I tell him (work and the location). He then says “Can I have your driver’s liceince hun? Pass it to him, he returns about 10 minutes later tells me he viewed the camera and needs to give me a ticket.. hun. The officer never told me why I was pulled over and when I began to ask him questions he turned and walked away from my car.
I have put this ticket into court… $325 and 3 points. Do you know approximately how long it will take for this ticket to come to court and what my chances would be?
July 23rd, 2010 at 10:22 am
I can take anywhere from 3 to 8 months or more depending on the backlog. The JPs are extremely biased towards to cops so if he shows up just plead with the prosecutor to give you a reduced fine. There is no real justice once you get to court since everyone is just there to process your payment. I’ve been to many trials and 100% of the time the JP went with what the cop said even though his only proof was his stupid little notebook. So just plead it out and pay a reduced fine because there is no real way for you to prove that the lying cop was rude to you or that he actually saw you go through a light.
August 27th, 2010 at 4:56 am
I find it’s easier to just stay at the speed limit. That way the cops have no reason to give you a ticket. Why give the government yet another excuse to suck money out of our wallets?
September 4th, 2010 at 2:38 pm
Hi,
I got a $110 ticket for making a left turn on a Saturday at an interection that prohibits left turns Momday-Saturday. I wasn’t trying to sneak, the police car was right behind me when I did it. I just assumed it was illegal Mon-Fri. I also got slapped with a $65 ticket for not having my new insurance slip with me (first time driving a new car). The officer actually coyly advised me to bring my proper slip with me to court. She wouldn’t tell me why or how it would benefit me. I’d rather not ask for a trial because I’m clearly guilty, but what else can I hope to do in terms of reducing my fine and avoiding demerit points.
September 5th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
The reason they give you the second ticked is so the prosecutor has something to negotiate. They’ll offer to waive the insurance ticket if you plead guilty to the other offence. You might even be able to avoid points. You should always go to court. Remember the cops face. If she’s not there, just plead not guilty. If you see here lurking around the hall, negotiate with the prosecutor and you’ll at least get one ticket removed.
I wish the cops showed as much interest when my car got broken into earlier this year. But I guess those left turns on a Saturday afternoon are really wreaking havoc on our society and they need to be stopped. They way the police in our city prey on us instead of doing their jobs is nothing short of pathetic.
September 7th, 2010 at 5:36 am
Thank you for your response.
September 27th, 2010 at 7:02 pm
I was recently given a $325 ticket for running a red light on a bicycle at a T intersection, where cars and bicycles cannot intersect! The officer charged me with failing to stop at a red light 144 (18) in the HTA, but the set fine for this (with all additional fees) is listed at $190, not $325. $325 is for the charge of careless driving (section 130). Do you think there is a way to have the ticket thrown out for reasons of impercision, since the officer confused charge 144(18) with the fine set for section 130? Thanks!
September 30th, 2010 at 4:01 pm
I was pulled over saturday morning for turning left onto yonge st after exiting gardiner expressway east. For years you could always turn left in 2 lanes now the cop said you can’t turn from the 2nd lane yet no signs i saw and the white line on road still turns to the left. Should the white line not go straight so you don’t cross over it…..
November 4th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
I was recently pulled over (after officer ran my plates) and he informed me that my licence was under suspension!
I was surprised but then remembered I forgot to pay a speeding ticket on time. A letter (being served) was sent by regular mail, but I hadn’t seen it so was unaware of the suspension.
An earlier comment suggested not going to a “ticket fighter” agency and appearing in court yourself. I’m worried about the penalty (6 month suspension) but am not crazy about parting with 600 bucks! (to pay parallegal)
Are theses charges normally reduced for a first time offender? If I go myself I’d like to know what my chances are…
November 4th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
The truth is that the paralegal will do absolutely no more for you than you can do yourself. Go to court and talk to the prosecutor before the case. He/she will usually offer you a reduction in exchange for a guilty plea. The representation is usually a waste of money and whatever they reduce you end up paying to them.
November 4th, 2010 at 3:39 pm
Okay, I’ll do that. Thanks!
One other question – I notice an error on the ticket.
Location was Lakeshore Blvd. West but the officer wrote down “Lakeshore Ave. East”
Any likelyhood they could dismiss the charge on a little inaccurate item like that?
November 4th, 2010 at 4:05 pm
That could be grounds for dismissing it. I’m sorry but I don’t know enough to tell you for sure. You should talk to someone that knows about it or go to the court and try to have the ticket dismissed. You can go and ask them at the court house and they should be able to tell you who to talk to without it costing you any money.
But generally if there is a mistake on the ticket you have a chance to fight it.
November 5th, 2010 at 7:46 pm
Editor,
Just got a red light camera offence notice – not stopped at red light w/ photos and electronic evidences. What would you suggest me to do next? go to court to plea guilty or try paralegal service to write off it totally? thanks a lot! JJ
November 5th, 2010 at 7:49 pm
if you have the time it always pays to at least try to go to court and negotiate a lower offence. If you are too busy, just pay it because there is no real way to win that one in court as far as I know. I’m not a big fan of paralegal services but that’s a personal preference. good luck.
November 10th, 2010 at 11:38 pm
I just got a ticket for going 58K on a 40K street. The reason why I accelerated my engine is because I was trying to bypass a vehicle that was going 33K in front of me. Unfortunately for me the cop pulled me over and nailed me for speeding. What doesn’t make sense to me is the following: isn’t obvious that you need to speed in order to bypass another vehicle??? Obviously you need to accelerate your engine for my own safety in order to get back on the right lane in order to avoid the opposite traffic.
I was wondering if I stand a good chance of winning based on this argument.
November 19th, 2010 at 12:17 pm
Hi, I’m going to court (a year after the ticket) to fight a disobey stop sign. I’ve received the disclosure. Cop in his car at a busy four way stop right by two school playgrounds. I completely stopped. The cop pulled me over a block away and said did you see me behind you. I told him I stopped. In fact I’ve driven this route every day for 11 years. When I received the disclosure the cop was not behind me. His notes just quote “I stopped”. I’ve gone back to take pictures of intersection. There’s no way he saw me at 30 km then at 10km. Insurance says that unless it’s withdrawn it will go up. I have a clean record no tickets in over 25 years of driving.
Any advise?
November 22nd, 2010 at 2:43 pm
Hi I was driving without my license and my friend let me drive without it. We both got a ticket. I got a ticket for driving vehicle without a license and my friend got one for permitting me to drive his vehicle. Both my friend and I got an offence notice, I got a fine for $325 and he got one for $250. Should I plea guilty and pay it off straight away or go with option 2 to reduce the fine. Can someone please tell me the consequences for my offence.
November 22nd, 2010 at 8:01 pm
If you have the time you should always try and plead it down. Your offence cannot get any worse than what you were charged with. If time is scarce, you can just pay it off and save yourself the hassle. It’s doubtful that you would win a case like that in court. But you can usually work out a plea to a lesser offence. May not work but it’s worth a try if you have the time to spare,
November 25th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
I was stopped by a police officer on 16th October of 2010 at 10 pm in a private property of massey square condominiums parking lot. Patrol car was leaving the property while I entered there; however they have made a U-turn once they saw my car. It’s a black 2005 chrysler 300. They came in to the parking lot after approximately 5 minutes. My car was turned off. They haven’t turned on their flash lights. There were two officers on the vehicle. Officer that was sitting on the passenger side came out & first question he asked if I lived on that condominium; I have answered no & also notified that I was there to pick up my friend. Then he asked for my license, registration & insurance info which was provided immediately. Then officer went and provided those to his partner & then he came and he was chatting nicely with me. After 10 mins the officer from the driving seat came in & advised me that my insurance has been cancelled on September 30th. I have advised them that there is absolutely no way that can be right. Then he advised that it might be possible that they have cancelled my insurance sin I got convicted of a charge on September of this year & most likely I have somehow missed their mail. Then he advised that he will contact the insurance company & then he said called the insurance company & they are closed due to holiday, won’t open till Monday. then I have asked for the insurance company number & I have called the emergency line; however they said they won’t be able to verify that info, all they can do is get me a tow truck. Then the police officer came in & said that the reason why they have stopped me because my tints are dark & they couldn’t see who is inside even though both my front windows were down all the way as I was having a smoke on the way to the parking lot. I advised them that I have receipt to show that its 35% legal tinted windows however I have the receipt at home. They still gave me three summons; No insurance, false evidence, color coating obstructing interior. Then the police officer opened my hood & he was checking the engine for some weird reason. Then they advised that once they leave I can slowly park the car in the visitor parking lot till Monday till I call the insurance company or I can have it towed to my residence. Following Monday I have contacted the insurance company (Certas Dir. Ins. Co.) & they notified that the reason why they have cancelled my insurance in refer to the conversation occurred back in 24th September I have called their office asking that If I was to sell my car what penalty do I get charged since I have a year contract with them as I have a possible buyer who might purchase it by the End of the month. So based on that they have cancelled it on September 30th. And they have sent me mail which I have never received it & and it wasn’t a registered mail. So right away they have re-issued my insurance with a different policy number. Then they have contacted me on October 22nd regarding my tickets that I got convicted on September of 2011 & October of 2011. They have advised me that they will cancel my insurance on November 9th due to those tickets. So then I went ahead & got new insurance with Pafco insurance company.
Also to notify you, officers has asked for my cell# & home number and he mentioned “I will call you if I hear anything” which I didn’t understand. I have also notified them that I work for Ally bank Canada (formerly GMAC) & I have access to MVB & Autoplus where I will check for all the info.
Yesterday was my first apperance~ so got myself a trial date on May of next year.
any suggestion? what i should do?
November 26th, 2010 at 8:13 pm
Dear editor, i am still awaiting for your answer
November 26th, 2010 at 9:03 pm
Hi OB. Unfortunately I’m not a lawyer and this a bit beyond the scope of this post. Sounds like you might be able to sue the insurance company and file a complaint against the offices. Unfortunately our legal system is set up to favour the rich so pursuing it may cost more than it’s wroth for you to get any justice. Please seek legal advice on this matter. Some lawyers will give a free consultation and that’s probably your best course of action now.
December 14th, 2010 at 2:43 pm
Dear Editor,
In March 2010, I was ticketed for failure to wear a seatbelt as a passenger. I pled “not guilty” and was given a December 6, 2010 court date. Unfortunately, I did not attend or provide representation on December 6 and was convicted. I have received notice in the mail to pay $250.
How do I get the case re-opened?
Thank you.
December 29th, 2010 at 3:35 am
I know convictions are what counts on insurance.Im a good driver but I have 2 speeding tickets- a little over the limit and just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Trouble is I got a third today and the third spells disaster. He told my he noticed one is nearly off so this would be okay. I didnt tell him but I have another ticket coming to court in a month, by an officer who insisted I didnt come to complete stop at a stop sign. I fear my insurance will be so outrageous that I will lose my car and have to walk because I cant afford the insurance… so my question is – now you cant plead NOt guilty or they will pin you to a wall- but I NEED a conviction DROPPED – the one stop sign off and one speeding off..Should I hire someone to go to court with me? Would it show the judge i take it very seriously- would it help at all? What could I tell the judge? I want him to know I stopped- just not maybe as long as this copper would have liked, but I know its there I stop there every day and the angle is such that one has to stop in order to make that turn. I really dont want to lose my ability to drive- I need it to make a living..
December 30th, 2010 at 2:56 am
I’ve got a ticket for FAIL TO STOP – FLASHING RED LIGHT downtown toronto, December 29th at 11:58pm.
Problem here is that I know I came to a complete stop for at least a couple of seconds and there was no traffic at all (I don’t even know where the cop came from). But I know it will be my word against the cop’s. My wife and my 7 year-old son were in the car (can she be considered an independent witness???). If not, can I ask for trial and plea guilty asking for a reduction of demerit points? (I don’t mind paying a fine, but I don’t want to loose points). What would be the best thing to do in this situation?
I appreciate any direction here.
Thanks.
December 31st, 2010 at 2:51 am
# Pat Says:
November 10th, 2010 at 11:38 pm
“I just got a ticket for going 58K on a 40K street. The reason why I accelerated my engine is because I was trying to bypass a vehicle that was going 33K in front of me. Unfortunately for me the cop pulled me over and nailed me for speeding. What doesn’t make sense to me is the following: isn’t obvious that you need to speed in order to bypass another vehicle??? Obviously you need to accelerate your engine for my own safety in order to get back on the right lane in order to avoid the opposite traffic.
I was wondering if I stand a good chance of winning based on this argument.”
Let me get this straight, Pat. You needed to exceed the speed of the car in front of you by 18 km/h in order to simply pass him?
January 10th, 2011 at 6:29 pm
# James Says:
December 31st, 2010 at 2:51 am
“Let me get this straight, Pat. You needed to exceed the speed of the car in front of you by 18 km/h in order to simply pass him?”
Let me get this straight, James. You can’t do simple maths? At a speed of 58km/h, Pat was overtaking a vehicle going at 33km/h, which would put Pat at 25km/h faster than the vehicle in front of him and not 18km/h as you stated.
January 28th, 2011 at 12:50 pm
Editor,
Like Ben(September 30th, 2010 at 4:01 pm) I got an “improper left turn” ticket getting off the gardiner from harbour street to yonge street. They were blitzing the area and I was one of many other cars. You could always make a left from the 2nd lane and I really didn’t see the sign. The officer wrote the wrong date “20104427″ on the ticket. This is my first ticket and have requested a court date long ago. What should I do?
February 12th, 2011 at 11:16 am
I received a speeding ticket this morning for doing 30 km/h over the limit on the n/b DVP. I have one prior offense from August 2008 – for doing 10 km/h down a hill (my foot wasn’t even on the bloody gas pedal), which I paid. Obviously I didn’t receive any points but I know that this will still be on my record since it is just under 3 years ago.
I apologized to the officer this morning and said that, while I couldn’t excuse my speeding, I was preoccupied with the fact that my best friend had just been diagnosed with cancer yesterday (true) and failed to watch my speed. I said that I was sorry to have slipped up and would try to pay better attention. He responded, rudely, that speeding wouldn’t help my friend get better, even though my statement obviously wasn’t intended to solicit a favour – it was just an apology. I’m not sure whether a prior, minor offense, which is almost expired by this point, would come into play, but I was surprised that the fine wasn’t reduced (I guess no one’s that magnanimous on a Saturday morning).
Either way, I noticed after that the time of the offense was recorded wrong on my slip – he wrote 8:52 PM rather than AM, which I realize is a flimsy error to plead in court, but I was also not shown the radar gun to prove how fast I was going. I’m not sure whether it would be reasonable to question the accuracy of the speeding charge since the information is probably not correct, as well as the fact that the officer will likely no longer be on shift by 8:52 tonight (nor will I be on the road). I plan to fight the ticket to get the points reduced/removed if anything (having the fine reduced would be a bonus, but is not my priority… I’m more concerned about the points/insurance hike), but it would be really helpful to show up with a game plan and some grounds for contest, rather than just a sheepish apology.
Thanks!
February 14th, 2011 at 12:04 pm
I got a ticket for a left turn. The charge says “Left turn – fail to afford reasonable opportunity to avoid collision”. I was turning left on a yellow light. One oncomming car going east had already stopped and another was coming but was quite far. I started to make my turn, when the other car sped up and to avoid hitting me swirved around me and collided in an electrical box. I have very little damage for which the driver decided to pay for me and then he left. The police was called, I was there the other drive was not. In the end I received a ticket with the above charge. How do I fight this?
Thanks,
March 2nd, 2011 at 6:28 pm
Hi Yesterday Cop gave me 2 tickets 1 for for the red light and 2nd for the not renewing a permit.He said I dont have a sticker on the back of my ownership I just moved to new house and had adress change on a new ownership there is no sticker.I went to Ministry office yesterday they told me since you move to the new adress we dont issue the new sticker for the ownership.Cops gave me a wrong ticket.
Should I fight for that Ticket it is 110 dollars.
March 11th, 2011 at 1:18 am
If you have the time fight all the tickets. They use the second ticket as leverage against you in court which is why the issue them. The first ticket you can probably get reduced. Good luck!
March 14th, 2011 at 2:27 pm
Hi
If you don’t act within 15 days and you wanted to choose the trial option, is there anything you can do?
Max
March 18th, 2011 at 9:20 am
Hello,
I got a speeding ticket today on my way to work…on the ticket it says at an intersection that i hadnt reached yet and also there were cars in front of me and behind me and I felt I was going the flow of traffic …it took him well over a half an hour to write the speeding ticket as a friend cop drove up beside him and talked and laughed….He handed me the ticket and said you can fight this in court….My question is do I pick Option 2 or Option 3? If its reduced fee without demerit points I dont mind.
Thankin you for your help in advance
March 18th, 2011 at 9:28 am
If you want to get a reduced charge you have to set a court date and you have to bring it in person to do so. They will not reduce the charges if you plead guilty and pay the fine.
Good luck!
April 12th, 2011 at 6:48 pm
I was given a $110 ticket for turning left on Kipling to Mervyn at 5:55pm. The sign said not left turn from 4 – 6. I called my home and the time was almost 6 pm. Subsequently I noticed the ticket was marked 5:40 pm.
I would like to go to court with an intelligent argument. Please assist
Thank you
April 25th, 2011 at 1:59 am
# James II Says:
January 10th, 2011 at 6:29 pm
“# James Says:
December 31st, 2010 at 2:51 am
“Let me get this straight, Pat. You needed to exceed the speed of the car in front of you by 18 km/h in order to simply pass him?”
Let me get this straight, James. You can’t do simple maths? At a speed of 58km/h, Pat was overtaking a vehicle going at 33km/h, which would put Pat at 25km/h faster than the vehicle in front of him and not 18km/h as you stated.”
It’s called a typo, jackass. Either way, you added zilch to the issue. Go sugar your balls now, asshole.
May 9th, 2011 at 3:12 pm
I was given a speeding ticket, driving 56 km/hr at 50 km zone. ($30) I was never shown the reading on the radar gun, how do I fight this? Tks
May 27th, 2011 at 9:00 am
i was charged doing 87km in a 50 however i was pulled over in a 70km zone the 50km zone was one 1km back??? Any advise would help for court
June 1st, 2011 at 12:52 am
I got a ticket for talking on my phone, in fact I was followed a few kms and then pulled over and issued the ticket. The officer put the wrong postal code on my ticket. If I let it be, will I be still convicted?
I told him that I was on my way to an emergency call and answered the dispatch radio at the red light when I was completely stopped. Will that win my case in court?
July 4th, 2011 at 9:42 am
How will I know if I get a demerit points when incurred an alleged traffic violation? I got a ticket saying “I disobey stop sign, fail to stop”.
Who issues demerit points?
July 4th, 2011 at 10:51 am
The points are issued upon your conviction if your charge has demerit points as a penalty. If you fight it in court you can try to negotiate a plea to a lesser charge that comes with no points. If you just pay the fine without going to court you will receive whatever the law says is the penalty for your infraction. It’s always a good idea to try and get a lesser charge on a ticket with points.
July 7th, 2011 at 11:48 am
Where and what court should I go? I got ticketed in Etobicoke and lived in Mississauga.
July 7th, 2011 at 12:12 pm
You should have been given instructions by the officer and if not there should be a number to call on the back of your ticket.
August 4th, 2011 at 8:03 am
Yesterday I got ticket for an accident where i was involved with a TTC bus. I was changing lane to right lane and the bus which was behind me hit my right tail light with its left front bumper. No one was injured.Police gave me a ticket for $100 and 2 points for unsafe lane changing. I am new to Toronto, what should i do.
Your advice will be really helpul
August 14th, 2011 at 10:20 pm
Hi Editor,
I really appreciate this post.. I got a ticket for improperly a streetcar a couple of days ago and I thought about getting a service which will help me fight my case. After reading this, it does not seem like such a good idea. I got a $110 fine and 3 points. If I take option 2 Plea of Guilty, can I request for less points? Do insurance companies care more about the ticket or the points? I am so nervous about this situation.. I’ve never been pulled over before and I made an honest mistake as a person who never drives in toronto. Thanks for this forum/comment area and I appreciate your response.
August 16th, 2011 at 4:20 am
Hi,
Today my dad got pulled over and got a ticket for “supposedly” driving 70/50. We were making a left turn and the cop car was right behind us, and he turned his signal on AFTER light switched to green. The first thing he said to my dad was “I saw you reaching for your seat belt” and asked for registration papers. The cop went back to his car and then came back and then bursts out that we were 20 over the speed limit(what the hell?). Firstly, my dad wore his seat belt the whole time and I have no idea how he could see through two people to the drivers seat(we were in a ford van with my mom and two brothers and he was behind us) AND it was raining AND he had sunglasses on. Secondly, I knew we were going right at speed limit because cars would always take over us. He gave us the speed ticket with no mention of the seat belt at all. My dad is an aggressive guy and obviously fought back with rage telling the officer that he would contest the ticket. The officer is obviously a jackass but I want to know any tips on incidents like this? Can my mom, my brother(18) and I(19) be used as witnesses? I got the police car license number but I don’t recognize his face because he wore sunglasses and it was raining hard. Thanks.
August 17th, 2011 at 12:34 pm
Dear Maria,
Thank you for your inquiry. Yes world of traffic tickets, can be very complicated but it doesn’t have to be. Licensed Legal Professionals are there to help you navigate the court system so that it is not as challenging. So you had a few questions. Let’s take them one by one:
Do insurance companies care more about the ticket or the points?
Insurance companies care about the Ticket. It is their way of assessing the probability that they are going to have to pay out for you.
It is the Ministry of Transportation that have concerns about the points.
There is not a Driver in Ontario that has not made a honest mistake. Is it worth 3 demerit points and hike to your insurance premiums for three years? I don’t think so.
Legal Professionals save you time, money and points.
August 17th, 2011 at 12:41 pm
Dear Vlad,
You’ve raised some interesting points but Ontario Speeding Tickets doesn’t work that way. Here’s the scoop, speeding is considered an absolute liability in Ontario. This means it only has to be confirmed that you were going above the posted speed limit to warrant a conviction against your father.
This is where a traffic ticket fighter comes in. There are certain elements that needs to be proven in the Disclosure (evidence against your father) to obtain a conviction. If those elements are not met, there is a defect in the ticket or the lenght of time to go to trial is over twelve months. You Dad will be looking at the withdrawal of the ticket. If your dad has not filed for a court date, perhaps he should.
August 17th, 2011 at 10:01 pm
Hello,
I received a ticket back in Nov 2010 and my court date is on Friday, 19th Aug. I am just wondering in the recent past year or so, how many times does the officer show up? Do you recommend taking that chance or just talking to the prosecutor before hand. If they lower the charge with no demerit does that still effect ur insurance?
thanks !
August 20th, 2011 at 10:48 pm
I just got pulled over tonight by a cop because he said I didn’t stop at a stop sign. I did STOP, I put my foot on the brake and stopped. I didn’t sit there for a full 30 seconds but it was dark and quiet and no one really around. But what am I going to do…argue with the guy? I was polite and apologized. Then he took my license and registration and insurance and of course my insurance card was outdated (ugh) so he said he’d give me a break on that and gave me a ticket for $110. He didn’t say anything about demerit points. Is that automatic? How do I find this out? So I should call then number on the back of my ticket and fight it? Any advise would be appreciated.
September 1st, 2011 at 11:16 am
Hi Vlad,
I’m not a lawyer so this is my friendly advice, but first of all:
1. Do not panic, request a trial. After trial request do not waste your time:
There’re lots of things you can use against that incident.
It seems in your case you can definitely apply for stay.
September 8th, 2011 at 12:32 pm
Hi editor,
I got my first ticket since I’ve been driving for 10 years, I’m very nurvous, the tickets was for inappropriate left turn and also another ticket for not having my insurance paper with me, what do I do???? Please help me.
September 29th, 2011 at 5:00 pm
Hi,
Cop gave a “disobay signs” ticket coming out of school 10thline/Thomas area and taking left turn where there is a board(presumably new board). 110$ and 2 points. Road was empty.what happens if i take appoinment with prosecutor and bargain to pay fine without demerit points. Will he agree? or is it btter to plead not guilty and take a courtdate and then negotiate or go through agent/para?..please advice..thanks
October 2nd, 2011 at 10:02 pm
I received a red light camera ticket while driving a rental. I was turning right and it is alleged that I didn’t stop at the red light. The first picture shows another car in the intersection turning left and my rental in the right lane with the brakes on before the white line. The second picture shows the back bumper of the rental after I turned the corner. The car turning left was not in the picture. The timing between the pictures is about 1.6 seconds. I’m planning on fighting this. What do you think my chances are? I’m pretty sure it will not affect my insurance because it was issued to the rental company.
October 8th, 2011 at 10:13 am
Hi everyone.
I read through every single comment here and found a lot of useful things.
Earlier today on my way to work, I was stopped for going 93 on a 60 zone . I do not recall what my exact speed was but that was probably about right.
I got a ticket for $238 inc. taxes .
I am not sure how much demerit points I am charged with as the cop did not tell me and I can’t seem to find it on the offence notice. Anyone got ideas?
Also I am definately planning on going with the trial option (#3) but will just plead guilty on the spot.
Has anyone had their demerit points removed from a kind of speeding ticket like mine? How much decrease could I expect in demerit points and the fine?
Thank you guys ver much.
October 18th, 2011 at 12:13 pm
I received a failed to stop at a stop sign but I remember 100% that I stopped. The cop went back and issued me a reduced 65$ ticket with no points when he walked away from the car I muttered to myself “yeah, ill see you in court” then he took the ticket back and issued me a full fine of $110 with 3 points. Then he said “Now you have a reason to go to court asshole” and left.
Went to the court house and told me I can get a “First Attendance” meeting which is coming up soon but I heard those things are designed to make you plead to a lesser charge.
Also I never got pulled over EVER before that time and ive been driving for 11 years. Its just because I just got a Classic Car and it sticks out like a sore thumb. He Prolly thought I was loaded and didnt have time to contest so he pulled me over.
At court, will they give me credit that I have a clean lisence or should I start me defense?
October 18th, 2011 at 3:25 pm
Hi,
Your help is appreciated.
I got a ticket and the ticket is about fail to stop when meeting school bus on a 5 lane road, which I did not see before or after being stopped by the officer since he stopped me ferther away.
He didn’t give me a ticket he gave me a Summons to defendant notice … which has a pre-set date on it to appear in court. I checked and I know the ticket have 6 points… should I try to get the officer disclosure… would it really help? I am so helpless here. Is there a way that I can defend myself I really didn’t see any school bus.
Thank very much!
October 26th, 2011 at 9:50 pm
I got pulled over this week at 7:30 am for disobeying a stop sign (3 way intersection). The cop gave me a $110 ticket but did not mention anything about demerit points. Is this automatic?
If I choose to fight, what are my arguments (the house at this intersection has a fence and and I did slow down and creeped around the corner to check for traffic).
October 30th, 2011 at 7:58 pm
Hello,
I forgot to go to my court date for a speeding ticket that I got last year. This date was reschedule as I did not receive the letter in the mail as it was sent to the wrong address. I’m not sure of what to do and what the process is once you’ve missed the court date?
Thanks for your help!
November 16th, 2011 at 10:38 pm
Today I got a ticket for 65 in a 60km/h zone. It was a total fishing hole and I should have know better. In addition, I didn’t have my license with me so the cop wrote me a second ticket (nice). The cop claims that the speed was actually higher (more than 80km/h) and gave me “a break”. A few questions:
1) the cop was parked on private property. Do they need to have permission to use + issue tickets from there?
2) Does a ticket for “failure to produce a drivers license” drive up your insurance rate the same way a speeding ticket can?
3) In court, if the cop shows can I still negotiate my way out of 1 of the tickets? If so, which one should I try and get dismissed?
4) Can the cop ask the JP to amend the ticket to the original amount or will my fine remain the same regardless? I’d hate to be slapped with a much bigger fine just for exercising my rights.
Overall, I really wish the cops would stop giving out chicken sh*t tickets and go and do something useful. I thought they were there to “serve and protect” not “fleece and collect” but I guess wrong.
Thank you in advance for your help
November 25th, 2011 at 5:48 pm
I have a strange situation. I was at busy t-intersection waiting to turn left (no light). The right lane of oncoming traffic was closed(construction) and then became 2 lanes about 100 meters or so before the intersection I was at. A lady went to go in the right lane and forgot to turn her blinker off. I thought she was turning right so i went to make my turn. She proceeded and we caused a minor crash. I am automatically at blame because i was turning left. which is unfair because it was because of her negligence. She also had the entire left lane to easily avoid the collision. I assume i can’t do much about this. Although, the cop gave me a failure to stop at a stop sign to give me break, because he realized the lady was an idiot. But by law, i’m at fault. But how can he give me a ticket for not stopping at a stop sign when he wasn’t there, and both our testimonials clearly indicated that i was stopped. I realize he was being nice, but couldn’t i get this ticket thrown out if my charge was so inaccurate to what happened?
December 6th, 2011 at 12:41 am
Hi….I got a ticket last year in December for “improper left turn”….instead of staying on my lane after I turned, i went straight to the 3rd lane. It was snowing and the roads were covered in slush. What should my argument be?
The cop who pulled me over actually TOLD me to fight the ticket and said he would help me with it …..does that mean he’s not going to show up? I recall being very polite and quiet when he pulled me over…..
I’m so nervous, what should I do? My court date is in 2 weeks!! PLEASE HELP!
December 6th, 2011 at 12:56 pm
I need help!
I got into an accident in July 2011 and received a wreckless turn ticket for $125. I signaled checked my blind spot saw the car and I thought she was going to let me change lanes, and she sped through and side swiped my car. I did not go through insurance and paid the other involved person cash to repair the damages to try an avoid the high insurance premium. I recently received a court date scheduled for March 2012, I however will be in Africa interning with CIDA until July 2012 and will not be able to make the court date.
I have some questions and I would appreciate any help considering I am a recent grad and will not in any way be able to afford my insurance if I get convicted of the traffic infraction.
1. The car is in my Mother’s name, but I am the first driver. Can she go in as my agent with a letter from the organization requesting a delay???
Will this hurt or benefit me?
2.Would it be better for my Mother to represent me??
3. The officer was not present at the accident but he told met he only goes to court when he is summoned to, what does this mean???
4. When is the best time to request full disclosure?
Please any help I really need it!
Thanks,
December 17th, 2011 at 6:24 pm
Your help is very very much appreciated
my son was using my car got a red light camera ticket yesterday in Don Mills turn Finch.
1. How can I plea bargain a lesser fine? Because I am currently on disable pension (ODSP) and jobless for 2 years
2. How do I know who and where to look for the prosecutor to plea the bargain?
OR who else can I do / should do? Those ticketing agents are out of my budget..
December 20th, 2011 at 1:39 pm
Hello I would love some help on this one…
I got pulled over for a disobey sign, I made an illegal right turn during prohibited hours
I took that street for about a week and the sign wasn’t there, I told the cop and he said it was put up the day before
He was standing in the middle of the street waving cars over, but I thought that something just happened like an accident or they are looking for some criminal
Anyways, I went again near my trial date to take pictures of the sign to argue it was obstructed but the sign was taken down
I eventually had it adjourned to a later date and received disclosure which is basically chicken stracthes on a paper and I think the plate number is wrong on the disclosure…anyways is there a way to argue out of this one? I don’t think the judge will care that the sign was placed the day before, or that I pulled to the right thinking something may have happened…any insight would be appreciated.
January 6th, 2012 at 10:28 pm
Hi
I received a ticket for checking my email on my phone at a stop light. The license plate information that was entered on the ticket is incorrect. Can this help me to fight this?
January 15th, 2012 at 6:45 pm
Hey,
I’m in a similar situation as Bianca, I got a ticket last year in January for improper left turn. The cop told me to fight it. (i’m guessing so many ppl are courting tickets that cops expect it to happen?).
So my court is this week, i was wondering if the Editor knows anything i can possibly say to drop the ticket. Essentially i did a left turn but changed my lane to the right lane, the cop says i did it too fast, i think thats bs, you’re supposed to turn to the right lane right away in driving school, so wtf?
January 23rd, 2012 at 11:43 am
Hoping to see some responses to my case here…
I was handed a ticket for doing 70km on 50km zone. The kicker is that I know I only did max 55km since I pass by this area daily and I see police sitting there with radar guns about twice every week. I pay extra attention to stay close or at 50km. There is no way I would have hit 70.
The odd thing is that there were no other cars in front of me or next to me – only right behind me or behind me on another lane. All other cars were driving slowly as well (I think).
Do I have a case to defend for this? I am very puzzled. This would be the first speeding ticket in 20 years of my driving career.
January 23rd, 2012 at 3:27 pm
Just got 2 tickets – failure to stop at a stop sign – 4 way intersection in a residential neighbourhood, and expired ownership sticker. The stop sign had no visible solid line, and the stop sign was placed about 6-8 feet from the corner, in front of a sidewalk. The police officer was parked to my left, down the street that I was turning right onto. I stopped at the sign, but when turning right, would have rolled to the corner then turned. The expired sticker on the ownership belongs to my husband, as it is his car and ownership. Since he looks after plating etc., I was not aware that the sticker was actually in the glove compartment. He has since placed the sticker on the paper.
Do I have a chance of fighting either ticket? And when do I ask for the officer’s disclosure? I have already gone to fill in the papers for a first attendance.
January 31st, 2012 at 5:41 pm
I recently got a ticket for making a prohibited left turn during 7am-whenever. The officer gave me a ticket for $18.75 with no points. Should I just pay the fine or should I try and fight it? I feel as if I should fight it as I do not want this to reflect on my insurance premiums as I am already being gouged enough by my insurance providers. Any thoughts/opinions? Any viable excuses I can use if I choose to fight it? Would the officer even show up to court given the amount of the fine?