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Originally posted by aditya2008

Thanks for replying! I had missed my initial courtdate, re-opened and got a new trial date -there was no other circumstances, no accidents, it was in January 2005 -in winter- a fine of $180, 3 demerit points were awarded as I had missed initial court date(but as it was sent to wrong address) -but I have to appear on court 1st week of sept to appeal..i am confused as to what to do-if i appear by myself what should be my approach -should i accept charges and then plead to have my points removed as it is my first offence and no other tickets in last 1 + year? or should i take help of an agent -they r charging $350 to fight, is it worth?

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Ideally, we should not be giving you advice on escaping from a 'crime' if you are truly guilty - only you know it better. Jumping Red lights is dangerous for you and other innocent motorists, which should be punished.

Assuming you have your own compelling reasons to do so, please read on.

When you refer to agent charging you $350.00, I guess you are referring to a paralegal. They are no good.

1. They will either plead guilty with explanation (anything rubbish, even the judge does not care what he says), have the demerit points taken back and fine reduced to about 1/2 - so you will end up paying $350.00 + 1/2 fine aprrox = $450.00.

If you represent yourself, plead guilty with explanation, your demerit points will be reduced or taken off and the fine reduced. (Infact you get a chance before the actual proceedings to discuss with the crown prosecutor about your intentions to plead guilty and negotiate a lesser amount). All you have to do is deal politely with the crown prosecutor to get the minimum possible fine with no demerit points.

Actually, in your absence the paralegal does the same as above, the only difference being the crown prosecutor and the paralegal are known to each other as they meet almost everyday with same kind of cases.

OR

2. The paralegal will plead NOT-GUILTY, which is next to impossible since they are not 'qualified' enough to challenge the crown prosecutor on legal technicalities.

I would recommend you attend the court with an intention to plead guilty with explanation. If the ticket was issued by a police officer, the chances are he will not be present and the ticket may be thrown out in his absence - no damage done to you. If the ticket was issued by a Red Light camera, there is no defence, but they dont have the demerit points in the first place. Please prepare a good very short story that had reasons compelling you to jump the red light.

Even if the points are taken off and the fine reduced, remember, you will still be reported 'guilty' on your driving record.

Hope that helps.

All the best!
Hiren

P.S. I suggest you visit any court room in the same place a few days before your date and watch a few proceedings. You will have more confidence and will see the whole 'process' first hand.