Can judges reduce traffic fine if you plead guilty before trial?

If there is a minimum base fine, the judge can't go below that. Only a few traffic violations have a minimum. The judges in Orange County will usually reduce the fine down as low as they can without you even having to ask. They often say that before calling cases. They know everyone wants the lowest fine possible. Also note, the date on the ticket, if it was Orange County, is not your date to go to court, it's the date whereby you need to go online and request a court date. And you can attend the nearest court for that appearance. I recommend west court. You could consult with an attorney before all that to discuss other options also.

Most judges will reduce fine if you plead early. Always ask for a reduction of of the fines.

I disagree with both of those lawyers. The Bail Schedule sets minimum fines and some mandatory fines. However, the Judge who is wearing the robe always has the discretion to lower fines. They cannot waive penalty assessments which takes your $35 base fine to $380 + or -! Some Judge's will automatically reduce fines, but in the current financial situation of the State, it is few and far in between. If you have financial hardships, ask to wait until the end of calendar and talk candidly with the Court and be prepared to establish with pay stubs or some type of evidence of your financial situation.