Speeding

A lawyer for speeding?

hi. I was ticketed several months ago for speeding in Nassau County, NY. I was doing 35 mph over in a work zone.
I appeared at a court to plea bargain last week and was told that i had to go to a trial because my speed was too high, and may want to speak to a lawyer.
I am a student and can’t really afford a lawyer, but is it a better idea to get one regardless?
Also, why was i told to appear last week if they were just going to tell me that i had to go to a trial?
had it been different if i brought a lawyer to that appearance?
i was under the impression that if i plead guilty i’d lose my license since its 8 points for 35 mph over times two, way over the 12 points maximum you can get before getting your license suspended in NY. will i definitely have my license suspended if i plead guilty?

Tom – Most lawyers do not charge a whole lot for a speeding ticket. Here in St. Louis the going rate is about $60-$100 if the matter can be plead down to a non moving violation. The lawyer can help you with that. The tradeoff for pleading down to a non moving violation is usually a stiffer fine.