Legal Question in Criminal Law in North Carolina

Mandatory court hearing-in state of NC for speeding

My son was speeding in NC on his way home from work (he attends college there) and was forced off the road by a large truck. He was not hurt, got back on the road and was angry, started to speed (he was on a two-lane, back road), got pulled over and was given a ":Mandatory Court date" in November. What does this mean? He is a dean's list student and has no points on his record. He's worried he will have a huge fine, have his license taken away, etc. Any advice?


Asked on 9/03/99, 6:58 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Donald Gillespie Attorney at Law

Re: Mandatory court hearing-in state of NC for speeding

"Mandatory court date" probably means just court date.

Generally speeds up to 15 miles over the limit are

infractions which would go

to an administrative court; speeds over 15 miles above limit

are misdemeanors which go into District Court

before a judge. Misdemeanors could lead

to arrest if no one shows up at court. If the son

does not want to go to court he can likely hire a

lawyer to represent him at that time. Only sure way to

have a big problem is for no one to show up.

Your inquiry does not mention whether son got popped

while doing some very excesive road rage speed

or if the violation took place in some special

enforcement zone or school zone or if he gave officer

an attitude which is noted on the ticket.

If any of these is present call a lawyer. Attitude adn

road rage are increasingly unpopular around here and

judges can order relatively high fines and/or community service

when dangerous situations are presented.

Make sure you got the straight scoop from son, any

yelling and flipping off truck driver?

Good luck. Call a lawyer. DG

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Answered on 9/05/99, 7:22 am


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