I was advised to always show up to your court date when charged with a traffic violation. Not only is the court willing to reduce the fine in many cases, but also eliminate any points on your driver’s license (I’m in the U.S. “Points” are what can increase the cost of your car insurance. The actual fine itself is often negligible compared to what having points on your license can cost you).

The large courtroom was packed. I wore khakis and a tie, but a lot of people showed up in sweatpants and a t-shirt. They interrupted the judge, didn’t call him Your Honor or even Sir. He was terrifying. Basically, he tore everyone a new asshole. I was dreading my turn, but it came soon enough.

I was respectful and polite. I answered the his questions quickly, directly, and honestly. I didn’t waste his time with nonsense or bullshit excuses. The judge wasn’t friendly, but he wasn’t mean, either. He cut my fine in half and put zero points on my license.

When you’re in court, DON’T BE A DICK. IT MATTERS.