This is my first traffic citation and there's an area that says "License displayed in lieu of bail" and a "released to ___". It stated yes that I have shown my license and that I'm "released to appear." Does that mean I have to show up on the court date? Also, the speeding ticket was because I had gone 73 in a 55, but there was light traffic, cloudy weather, and dry roads. The officer wrote that I violated the code section 40-6-181. I'm 18 and this is my first offense ever. Can someone break down what the citation is basically saying?
You've been cited for speeding in violation of Georgia law. The OCGA reference is the specific Georgia statute that the officer claims you violated. In most cases you can call the court clerk's office and pay a speeding fine. However, since you are 18 you face stricter penalties for traffic violations that can result in a license suspension. I do not recommend paying the fine because you may be able to get the charge reduced. You should consult an attorney before your court date and weigh your options. An attorney can help save points and your actual license.
In Gwinnett, your first court date will probably be in Recorders Court from what I see. I agree that you should consult a traffic attorney here in Atlanta since the penalties are much different for a driver under 21. I would generally not just pay the fine or plead guilty to this high rate of speed considering your age.
A traffic/ criminal defense attorney on should be able to briefly speak with you concerning your options. Good luck
The citation is charging you wit speeding 73 in a 55. Displaying your license in lieu of bail means the officer did not arrest you, and force you to post bail. Most citations are handled this way. You can probably pay the ticket online, however I don't recommend doing this. You should go to court, and ask the prosecutor to reduce your speed to 69 in a 55 so the charge will not go on your driving history, and cause your insurance premiums to increase. To learn more about speeding tickets, and their effect on drivers under the age of 21 please watch my videos at:
http://atlantaduilawyer.com/dui_video/under-21-speeding/
http://atlantaduilawyer.com/dui_video/police-and-radar-laser/
The officer charged you with Speeding under GA Code Section - 40-6-181, which is the speeding code section. The officer did not arrest you that is why the citation is marked "License Displayed in lieu of bail". If you had been arrested you would have had to post a bond to make bail. Most times tickets can be paid online. However, in your situation, because you are under 21 there are special considerations concerning traffic citations. I would advise you to retain an experienced Traffic Defense Attorney that regularly practices in Lawrenceville to try to work out a reduction of the speed or have the charge changed to a Municipal Ordinance violation. This would prevent points being put on your license and prevent any possible suspension of your license based on this citation. Because of the strict rules that apply to drivers that are under 21 it is best to talk with an attorney before just paying any traffic citation. I hope this information has been helpful to you. Good Luck!!! George McCranie www.McCranieLawFirm.com
