I have a speeding ticket. DO I have to go to court? 2nd question Would I have to pay court fees?

It mainly depends on the ticket. If it is for a traffic infraction it may be possible to pre-pay the ticket. If it is for a reckless driving or some other criminal offense then you will most likely have to go to court. Either way, call the phone number on the summons and ask the clerk of the court if it is a prepayable offense. You will be assessed a fine and court costs. **HOWEVER, you should know that by prepaying a ticket you are essentially admitting guilt. Not only will you pay a fine, but demerit points will also be assessed on your driving record. This can affect your insurance premiums. I urge you not to prepay and to consult with a traffic attorney. An attorney can challenge the evidence and see if the Commonwealth can prove the allegation against you, and may be able to negotiate a reduction with the CA or persuade the judge to reduce the charge.

If the infraction is small enough and your record clean enough, you can get driving school and have nothing appear on your record (just remember to do it and prove it to the court). If the infraction is reckless driving, that is a criminal offense and you need a lawyer.

A good way to check is to go online and see if your ticket is pre-payable. If it is not marked for payment, then you must go to court, if you can pay online then probably not. If it is a Reckless Driving ticket it is not a simple infraction, but a Class 1 misdemeanor, therefore your appearance would be required. By prepaying your ticket, you are admitting guilt and will be found guilty. You will have a fine and court costs to pay either way.