In Vermont a speeding ticket is a civil violation that is processed in a court called the "Judicial Bureau". The judges are not really judges, but are "hearing officers". Even though they aren't judges they are still required to adhere to the Judicial Conduct Code which means they must be both courteous and impartial. You can't win a case by throwing yourself on the mercy of the court, or by claiming, without evidence, that you weren't speeding. Contesting a Vermont speeding ticket takes preparation.  Listed below are steps that will help you prepare. Remember that if you are convicted the fine is not the only consequence.  The insurance premium for your automobile insurance may be increased as well.

• We can help you.  Before you begin the process of contesting a speeding ticket, call us at (802) 658-4141 or send us an email.

• Ask for a hearing. This is the first step. You must be willing to stand up for yourself if you want to win. 

• Obtain a copy of Vermont Rule of Civil Procedure 80.6.  (V.R.C.P.  80.6) This rule governs how your hearing in traffic court will be conducted.

• Obtain a copy of the statute AND the local ordinance that you are accused of violating. The statute is the state law that establishes a speed limit or authorizes a city or town to establish a speed limit.  The local ordinance is the town or city law the establishes a speed limit within the town.

• Challenge the validity of the ordinance. Before you think about how to disprove that you were speeding, you should make sure that the speeding ordinance is valid.

• Ask the court for permission to conduct discovery. V.R.C.P 80.6 allows you to ask the police department for information related to your ticket. You should ask for this information well in advance of your hearing.

• Understand the weaknesses of radar.  Radar is not infallible, but you have little chance of proving that the radar reading is not accurate unless you understand the basic principles upon which radar equipment operates.

• Be prepared to appeal your case.  In traffic court the deck is stacked against you. Even if you are prepared, the hearing officers are often impatient with defendants who wish to offer a lengthy defense and may not be willing to allow you to fully present your case. On appeal you are entitled to a new trial in Vermont District Court in front of a jury.

        Pro Se Legal Services provides counsel and advice on contesting Vermont speeding tickets. Check our links below to find out the cost and scope of our services.