How do I... Do court? I didn't realize my license was expired and got pulled over. Now I have court tomorrow.

Aeao@lemmy.world to No Stupid Questions@lemmy.world – 270 points –

I know the obvious of being polite and respectful. do I show up early like an airport? Do I just show the guard my ticket? Anything I should know or be aware of?

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There's no way I can deal with the fime immediately. That's kind of information is exactly what I was asking about...

I live paycheck to paycheck. I don't get paid again until next week.

They really expect people to pay the unknown fine immediately?

Yes they do. It's not a show stopper if you can't pay, just be honest. "No sir/ma'am, I cannot pay that today as I live paycheck to paycheck. May I set up a payment plan with the clerk?"

Judges see it all the time and really since you don't have any actual charges there's nothing they can or will do to you.

Yes, but if you are really that bad off state 'i missed the notice because I am housing insicure. I have little money after rent so I ask the court to show mercy'. A lawyer can word that better but something like that. If this is a first offense they may let you off with a warning.

I wouldn't say you're housing insecure unless that's true.

He implied it was true. For sure don't lie or even give an appearance of a lie.

You can ask for reduced fines and a payment plan. Take proof of income if you have it.

I don't think that's what they expect, but my impression is from a traffic court YouTube video. You can probably tell the judge that you will pay it by the end of the week at least.

I have been assigned public service for the same offense when I could not pay my fine. I worked at a food shelter for a couple of days (sorting donations, packing bags with cans, etc) and was good. You may ask the judge or public defender if that’s an option.