Traffic court, while yes it’s a court of law, is a bit more relaxed. Judges have far more leeway and they have a long docket.

You’re not the only one being seen and the judge wants to go home on time.

Be honest, courteous. In the rare event that the police officer starts saying things that are completely egregious, plead the fifth and ask for a continuance. Tell the judge that these facts are new to you and you’ll need time to assert a defense.

The judge may ask what you thought the charges were. Say something along the lines of, “Without waiving my fifth amendment right to self incrimination, my understanding is that I’m being charged for driving with an expired license.”

But this should be rare. Judges don’t like surprises either.

Again, remember that this is traffic court. Everyone is busy. If you’re a dick, they won’t have patience for you.

I went to court for a traffic ticket and the cop didn’t show up, so I didn’t get charged with anything. Poof, gone. Just be honest and courteous and you’ll be as fine as you can be given the situation.

depends on your state but generally fighting will cost you a lot oi time and you lose anyway - then the judge mad at the waste of time throws the max fine or even jail at you. Just plead guilty pay the $50 fine and move on - it probably will be that cheap.

if you didn’t go to jail, not that big of a deal. get it fixed, go to court and explain. mistakes happen, you didn’t run anyone over. you might get a fine, shit happens.

it’s public too, go to your local court during traffic court, you can sit in. usually early morning, listen to other cases and see how it works, then you’ll have a better idea.