[Darth Sidious]

Oh yeah, and to illustrate how ridiculous these things are...

I was the one driving the car. Said car being in my Mom's name, and the citation came to her!

What was that again about there being witnesses to testify against the defendant...?

[cactmh]

The witness is there, just like it is when they catch other criminals on tape. If it was raining, you should have been driving slower.

[Landru]

"I could pay the $50 fine."

Go to court & plead your case as it happened.
Then, present the Judge a photograph of two twenties & a ten along with a big ol' racoon grin on your mug.
(~would've helped the *case* immensely had you been a 5'10" 125# B-BE babe wearing a *smart*, short dress as you flashed that smile; nevertheless...)
You'll find out real fast if the ol' Judge has a sense of humor & break-up the court's attendees.

...but, you're going to pay that fine; be it reduced or in full -- as they want that $$.

[Concerned]

I am NOT a lawyer, but I believe that if your MOTHER showed up and stated---under oath---that she was NOT driving that car or any other car at the time or location designated on the ticket, that the ticket is legally invalid and unenforceable. Remember, though, I am NOT a lawyer.

I do remember reading, however, about such tickets and if I recall correctly, they are being thrown out left and right if fought. I don't believe that they can suddenly dismiss "HER" ticket and now charge YOU. Talk to a traffic lawyer.