Who is less likely to show up in court, CHP, or local PD?

So, I've received two tickets in the last six weeks, one from CHP, and one from Irvine PD. I plan to go to traffic school for one, and go to court with the other one, in hopes that the cop doesn't show up. Who do you think is less likely to make the court appearance, and why?

[judg4]

I think both will show, for better or for worse.

I can only speak for the city officers that I work with. They are required to show up. They make room on the schedule for court appearances.

[judg4]

I agree.

They normally must show; it is just for exceptional reasons that they don't.

Thank you for your posting, and the opportunity for me to help you by responding to your question.

I do traffic law every day in Orange County courts, and surprisingly, the answer statistically is that the Irvine Police Department is less likely to show up. There is both financial incentive, resources, and policy behind the CHP showing up for almost every court appearance. However, I have to say that hoping the officer shows up is the worst way to win a ticket. The odds are against you. Doing a trial by declaration, and then a court trial, where you can subpoena and request under the discovery statute the maintenance and calibration records of the speed measuring device, will give you the best chance of success - certainly better than "hoping for a no show".

I hope this helps. If you do have other questions, feel that you need legal representation, or want legal advice, please feel free to email me directly at rmiller[at]expertlawfirm.com. It's my pleasure to help in any way that I can, and thanks. Best of luck to you.

Originally Posted by Unregistered

So, I've received two tickets in the last six weeks, one from CHP, and one from Irvine PD. I plan to go to traffic school for one, and go to court with the other one, in hopes that the cop doesn't show up. Who do you think is less likely to make the court appearance, and why?

Thanks!!