I don't know how it is in Virginia (haven't been ticketed here yet), but in Maryland if the cop doesn't show up, you are supposed to plead not guilty. With no cop, they have to accept your statement. If you plead no contest, you are admitting guilt and the judge can impose any penalty she chooses. I know this because my wife went to court, didn't take with her my brother-in-law who is a traffic attourney (among other things) and plead no contest or, I think she said "guilty with good excuse your honor." Anyway when my brother-in-law heard the story he cried (in a nice way) "you idiot, if the cop isn't there you are supposed to say not guilty."

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2008 Cayman (2.7) 2001 BMW 330i, 1998 BMW M3 Sedan, 1989 BMW 325i (track car), 2003 Yukon XL