So, I was speeding down 430(North) and admittedly, I was going well above the limit. Its posted 65 and I was going 82. I was pulled over by an Arkansas State police officer and was given my ticket, thankfully, he cut me a break and cited me for going 80 in a 65, fifteen mph over the speed limit.

This is my first traffic offense ever, I’m 20 years old, in the Arkansas National Guard, and have genuinely never had problems with law.

I looked on the pay.arcourts website, and my fine is $270. Shocked me at first honestly, I thought first offenses wouldn’t go past $100.

I have a shit ton of questions and worries that I’m hoping to get answered here: Do I/should I get a lawyer or pay the fine (admit guilt) Will I be given a class C misdemeanor ? If I am given a class C, how will that hinder my future? Will this/how long will this go on my record? Is there any way I could keep this from going on my record, raising my car insurance, or find some grace to not have to pay the fine at all?

Any and all advice is much appreciated, like I said, I’m 20, im young and dumb, and also freaking out.