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St. Louis County Speeding Tickets: What the New Prosecutor’s Policy Means for Drivers

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St. Louis County speeding ticket policy has changed in a big way. With the appointment of Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Price Smith in 2025, drivers facing excessive speeding tickets—specifically for going 30+ miles over the limit—should prepare for stricter consequences.

In the past, these tickets were often amended to lesser charges like “Defective Equipment,” helping drivers avoid points and insurance hikes. That option is now off the table. Here’s what you need to know.


What Has Changed?

Under the new St. Louis County speeding ticket policy, if you’re cited for driving 30+ mph over the posted limit:

  • You likely won’t get an amendment to a non-moving violation.

  • You may have to plead guilty to the original charge, resulting in points and penalties.

  • You could face a blind plea, asking a judge for leniency—with no promises.

  • You risk higher insurance rates, possible license suspension, and more severe long-term consequences.

🔗 Learn about how traffic tickets impact your license and insurance.


What Is a Blind Plea?

A blind plea is when you plead guilty (or no contest) without an agreement from the prosecutor. Instead, you present your circumstances—like a clean record or completing a defensive driving course—directly to the judge.

Judges may show compassion, but there are no guarantees. That’s why representation from an experienced traffic attorney is crucial.


Why Local Policy Changes Matter

Traffic law is not uniform across Missouri. In one city, you might be able to amend a ticket—even for high-speed violations—while in another, you won’t have that option. This creates a patchwork of policies across the state.

Knowing where your ticket was issued and how that jurisdiction’s prosecutor handles cases is key.

🔗 Learn about Missouri’s traffic ticket process.


Our Local Experience Makes the Difference

At Mid-America Law Practice, LLC, we handle traffic cases across the St. Louis region and beyond. We understand which municipalities are flexible and where you’ll face stricter enforcement. We can guide you through your options—whether that means:

  • Fighting the charge in court

  • Entering a blind plea

  • Exploring alternative resolutions

We offer practical, informed legal strategies based on years of local experience.


Preventing a Ticket Is the Best Defense

The message from St. Louis County’s new prosecutor is clear: driving 30+ mph over the limit is serious and will not be overlooked. The best way to avoid fines, points, and legal issues?

Don’t speed.
Keeping your speed in check keeps you, your passengers, and others on the road safe.


Facing a Speeding Ticket in St. Louis County? We Can Help.

If you’ve received a speeding ticket in St. Louis County, especially for excessive speeding, don’t go it alone. The consequences could be more severe than you think.

📞 Call Mid-America Law Practice at 314-818-8807
📧 Email info@midamericalaw.com
📅 Schedule a free consultation to protect your license and your future

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