How Do I Write a Letter to Reduce My Speeding Ticket?
Write a letter to reduce a speeding ticket by first obtaining the name and address of the appropriate court. This information is provided on the ticket and often on the court’s website. Determine how you wish to plead, then proceed with a detailed written explanation using a formal tone. Ask specifically for a fee reduction or dismissal if this is your goal.
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Do not plead guilty
Once a guilty plea is entered and the full fine is collected, it is impossible to have the fine reduced and a refund processed. Some states allow drivers to plead guilty and provide an explanation. Trial by declaration is available in some states. Research the court website or speak to a court clerk to find out what types of pleas are accepted in the courthouse that has jurisdiction over the ticket.
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Write the letter
Once it is determined that a written explanation or plea is acceptable to the court, begin writing the letter. If the judge’s name is known, the salutation should read, “To the Honorable Judge,” otherwise, address the judge as “Your Honor.” In the letter, explain the circumstances of the ticket, and discuss the inability to pay it. Tell the judge that a minimal fine is preferred over the full fine, and mention a willingness to attend traffic school to avoid paying a fine. Remember the judge is human, and she has the ability to reduce or dismiss the fine. Ask for her discretion in resolving this unfortunate situation.
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Proofread the letter
Make sure all words are spelled correctly and that the court has all the information necessary to clear the ticket. Read the letter out loud to a friend to hear how it sounds and to be sure it makes sense. Make sure to use formal language; courts are considered highly sophisticated, and using colloquial language is frowned upon by many judges.
