Tuesday morning dawned with apprehension. At 8:50 AM I lined up with a group of poor unfortunates in the foyer of Waverley courthouse. Many hapless victims of the criminal justice system did not speak English and were asked by a female court appointee if they were pleading guilty or not guilty. Some look blankly into space as this question is posed. A court official then says "well did you do it or not?"
more blank looks as she shepherds them downstairs to court one.
I am told I must attend court to as I am pleading guilty with mitigation, to my speeding offence outside a closed school. Anticipating at least half a day to wait to be heard I try to pull rank explaining that I am a GP on call. Soon after my name is called the lady magistrate looks over her glasses at me standing sheepishly in the dock.
"I'm afraid there is nothing I can do . The Roads and Traffic Authority have absolute discretion to cancel your licence.
"It is", she observes, "a travesty that somebody with 40 years driving experience should lose their licence but in future you will no doubt be mindful of the consequences your actions"
"Yes your honour" I blurt out, "I am just one of the 600 people every week in New South Wales who loses their licence."
Her honour dismisses me with a parting gift.
"And make sure you don't drive unlicensed or you'll be seeing me again in less pleasant circumstances"
Leaving the court, I resolve to have my bicycle serviced.
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