All of us have been given a traffic ticket at some point in our lives. Some are more serious than others. No matter how serious the citation, there are steps you can do to mitigate the situation and to show the judge that you have addressed the issue.

If you were charged with driving on a suspended license, get the suspension lifted. Many times it is as simple as paying an unrelated traffic ticket. Other times you may need to contact the MVA to take steps to get your license reinstated. If you get your license back, the State may even drop the charge.

If you do not have a license and were charged with driving without a license "DWOL", take and pass the written test. The simple act of obtaining a learner's permit will show the judge you have taken steps to resolve the issue. Repeat offenders sometimes go to jail for this offense so be proactive.

A charge of driving without insurance is easily rectified by insuring your vehicle. Bring proof to court and the State will probably agree to proceed on a less serious non-incarcerable offense.

If you are charged with hit and run, make sure your insurance company takes care of the damage of the other vehicle. The last thing you want is the victim angry that they had to pay a deductible. If you also did not have insurance, be prepared to pay their deductible and any expenses they have incurred.

Anyone charged with aggressive driving, reckless driving, drag racing, or traveling 30 or more miles over the speed limit should do a driver improvement program before court. You should bring a Certificate of Completion to court with you.

If you have been charged with driving under the influence or driving while impaired, immediately get yourself into a certified alcohol treatment program. You should bring an evaluation and progress letter to court with you. Complete a Victim Impact Panel through MADD. The judge is going to order it anyway. If you installed the ignition interlock, bring documentation of that with you to court.

The same logic apples to criminal cases. You should be prepared to pay restitution in a theft or malicious destruction of property case. You should be in a drug treatment program if you have a serious CDS charge.

You should be proactive and get in front of the problem. If you take steps now to show the judge you care and want to do better, you stand a good chance of avoiding serious consequences and walking out of the courthouse.