Legal Question in Traffic Law in Illinois

Traffic violation

I recieved a ticket for rear ending someone. No one was hurt. The other parties car was completely drivable. I am not sure if I should pay the fine and ask for court supervision through the mail. Someone told me that even if the other party is satisfied and doesn't show up this will not automatically be dismissed. I would most likely still pay the 75 dollars and get supervision and also pay additional court cost. Court is in Dupage county IL. Do I pay or go to court?


Asked on 7/09/07, 4:15 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles Dobra Charles Wm. Dobra, Ltd.

Re: Traffic violation

I practice every day in the Du Page courts, and have for years. Yours presents a thorny problem. Note, as background, that the person you hit has 2 years in which to file a civil action against you. And you have to plead guilty to receive court supervision. And, a guilty plea in a traffic case is admissable against you later in the civil case, if one gets filed. So, it MIGHT be convenient to plead guilty via the mail, but this can have dire consequenses. I've handled this situation before, and would do so for you. If you wish to call me to discuss this matter, please do so. Whether you call me, or another lawyer, you should do so.

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Answered on 7/09/07, 4:29 pm
David Shestokas Shestokas, & Associates

Re: Traffic violation

It is likely that the case will be dismissed if the other party does not show up. However, there is a more important reason for going to court. If you send in the money it is the equivalent of a plea of guilty which may be used against you in a civil matter outside the traffic court. You should go to court to protect against the possibility.

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Answered on 7/10/07, 3:08 pm


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