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I live in Findlay, Ohio.I had a speeding ticket when I was 17, for 51mph in a 35. Today I got a speeding ticket for 94mph in a 55 coming home from College class, which I commute to as well as work full time. Should I get a Lawyer for the court hearing? Should I plead not guilty or guilty if I go by myself? I have had no other offences other then that one ticket when I was 17. Thank you very much
Already Tried: Nothing yet
Hello,
Thanks for your question. I prosecuted traffic cases in Ohio for four years, including many speeding cases.
Any conviction for speeding 30 mph or more over the posted speed limit will give you 4 points against your drivers license in Ohio. According to the Findlay Municipal Court website, your fine should be $160 (plus court costs).
You can hire an attorney to represent you in this matter, but I would suggest doing so only if you intend to plead not guilty and take your case to trial. Since you were charged with going 39 mph over the speed limit, I'm not sure it would be possible to successfully fight this, particularly in light of the Ohio Supreme Court's ruling that a defendant can be convicted of speeding based only on the officer's visual estimation of excessive speed - this is, without using radar or laser to clock the driver's speed. On the other hand, if you intend to plead guilty, an attorney probably wouldn't be able to help you much. However, the choice of whether or not to hire an attorney is up to you - it's whatever you feel more comfortable with.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
Juliana
Experience: Licensed attorney for 23 years. Former mayors court magistrate and traffic prosecutor.