Facing the Judge...er, Commissioner

I will confess now. I've kept it a secret from a lot of people for the last 2 months, but back in September, a traffic cop gave me my very first speeding ticket. I was going 80 in a 65...GASP! Of course, I was not alone, but you know traffic cops; they can't multi-task...or catch "weavers" and/or motorcyclists. So, I was singled out...woopty friggin do.

Of course, over the last 2 months, I weighed paying the fine ($196, including traffic school) versus going down to the courthouse in November. I decided, since it would be easy to get time off work, I would give the court route a shot - what could it hurt, right? Plus, I'd never been into a courtroom, so it might be kinda cool to see Judge Judy in action.

So, on Thursday, I got up early and ate a big breakfast, worthy of a speeding maniac. Then, I headed on down to the courthouse (only 5 minutes away!). I had to stand in line for a little while to see a clerk, who I informed that I wanted to see the judge. Then, I was sent off to another department, where I waited (along with about 20 people) outside a court room.

When we were all called inside, we all took our seats and waited for the commissioner (not judge...I guess that's one level below judge?) to come in. I kept thinking "this is so cool! there's a bailiff and court recorder, just like on tv! Dayamn." Then, the commish came in, and the bailiff said "all rise" (just like on Judge Judy...ooooooo!! ahhhhh!!! do I sound like a bewildered country bumpkin yet?), and some words were said, and we all took our seats.

The commish lectured us for a bit, explaining the difference between "Not guilty" and "Guilty" (in case some might have crawled out from under a rock) as well as other terms. Very nice guy, actually. He started calling people up to the podium to mention their violation and ask for their plea. Most plead "guilty", as I did. As long as a person had a clean record, the commish knocked some $$ off the fine and sent him/her on his/her way. Same with me. He reduced my fine to $156! Well worth spending an hour and a half at the courthouse - I'm SO glad I hadn't just paid the fine via mail. Not only would I have overpaid, but I would've missed out on my courtroom experience!! If only I'd been able to take pictures..."will you take my picture as I plead guilty, kind sir? You're a peach!"

So, traffic school comes next. I have 3 months to attend (probably will do it online) and pay my fine. Maybe I'll do that on Christmas Day since I'll be by myself! Nothing says "Merry Christmas" like traffic school.

I guess I've learned my lesson...no more 80 mph for me these days. I stick to 70-75 mph. Well, unless I have one car behind me and one car in front of me, and we're all happily driving 80+ together. Not many cops have the courage to pull over several cars at a time...just the caboose of such speed trains gets caught, normally. So ends my criminal tale.