Ask the Lawyer: Can the police officer change the ticket?

Q: The police officer who gave me a ticket also gave me the impression he would consider changing it if I go to court. If he shows up for trial in traffic court, what are the chances that he will agree to a lesser charge?
-S.C., Torrance
Ron Sokol
A: In my view, none. Police officers are not prosecutors. He is a witness, and is not authorized nor permitted to modify the charges or negotiate a plea.
Q: It seems like the traffic judges always decide the cases right then and there. In small cl