A little class can make a big difference.

Whether I took it all the way to trial or worked out a deal, I knew I'd be judged in more ways than one.

I always tried to show the BEST version of myself without lying. (Especially since my record was viewed by the Judge and the Prosecutor.

I prepared an answer in case I was ever asked, "What are you doing with your life?"

Even though it seems like trivial small talk, I knew it could have great bearing on my case.

This is who I am:

I'm courteous and respectful
I'm generally a safe driver
I'm not a threat to society
I have a job
I'm a student

These helped a little as well:

I'm unemployed but I do volunteer work
I'm a single mother or father
I'm a Veteran or I'm in the armed forces
I'm disabled or I'm retired
I take care of a sick family member

Speaking of stories, the Prosecutor asked for my version of the incident.
Even though it's a good opportunity to get a plea bargain, I was careful not to ADMIT to breaking any laws.

I remembered, New Jersey is an Absolute Speed Limit state.
That means if I admit to going even ONE MILE OVER THE SPEED LIMIT... GUILTY.