Legal Question in Traffic Law in Georgia

Do you have a question?

You didn't ask a question, but the fact you almost did something to ruin your life tells us you need a lawyer ASAP. Had you paid online, that would have been a guilty plea.

While not all city ordinance violations may end up in your criminal history, if they do, a marijuana conviction can mean a suspension of your driver's license, being unemployable with future employers, being banned from getting most student financial aid, being banned from public housing, and being banned from military enlistment. Add to that the fine (and possible jail time) and you have a reason to talk to a lawyer. Note also that a prosecutor could upgrade the case to a state misdemeanor, or you, by certain choices you make as to things like a jury trial, could end up in state court. Your options will vary in different courts, so you want a lawyer to guide you.

In some courts a person with a lawyer may be able to seek pretrial diversion in which there is no conviction in exchange for completing the program, or may enter a nolo plea, or may, depending on facts, be able to defend the case. Be glad the officer, who was in error, was wrong and that you have time to meet with a lawyer and discuss the best option.