when i went to court for a wreck i had the cop wasn't there so it was dismissed. no court fees or anything. really got lucky there b/c it would have gone on my insurance.

 

a wreck is probably a little different, but from talking to people the general consensus seems to be that you could commit murder and get off as long as the cop that arrested you isn't at court... i don't know the technicalities if there are any, but i'd imagine theres some cases, like an accident, where some testimony is necessary, where in a speeding case even with out the ticketing officer the judge will have a sheet that says "80 in a 55" or something and shouldn't have any trouble having his way with you on that alone with out the officer present

 

I had my court date on Dec. 23rd for 88 in a 65 which is (w)reckless driving. I talked to the prosecutor before I stood in front of the judge, and we agreed to a fine and driving school. He will lower it to a 69 in a 55 once driving school is complete, so that makes it just a normal speeding ticket. Cost me about $120 in fines, $40 for court fees, and $50-60 for driving school. There were 2-3 other people there that had reckless driving, and received $300 fines - even when the guy wore his stupid little sailor outfit. This was my first offense too. I think I was somewhat lucky, and of course it wont happen again. I was speeding on an empty road.. when normally I just follow the flow of traffic.