School Bus Violation Defense

Summary

In Minnesota, a person charged with a school bus violation can consider defenses such as improper bus procedures or lack of flashing lights. If the bus driver did not follow proper protocols, it may be reported to the school district or authorities. Additionally, if the driver knowingly made a false report, it could be considered a crime, though proving intent is challenging. To present information as a friend of the court, permission from the court is required. Consider gathering evidence and communicating with the court-appointed attorney for a stronger defense.

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A school bus driver in MN illegally sat for minutes after the last student on his bus was safely out of the roadway. A person finally crept by the bus. She is being charged with a school bus violation. What is her defense?
It sounds like the person charged needs to defend against a school bus stop-arm violation. Here are some possible defenses:
- The bus driver did not follow proper procedures.
- The vehicle passed the bus when it was legal and safe to do so.
- There were no children present and the bus lights were not flashing.
Can you provide more details about the specific circumstances of the incident?
We are not positive the School bus driver turned off his signals but MN law forbids the use of his flashing lights unless he is carrying students which he wasn't. In addition he wrongfully followed this elderly lady to her house to confront her which also appears to be illegal under the harrassment and stalking laws. She has a court date coming up and her court appointed attorney is doing nothing. Can I present the results of my inquiry as a friend of the court?
It's great that you're seeking to help. In Georgia, a "friend of the court" submission is typically known as an amicus curiae brief. However, these are usually submitted by individuals or entities with a strong interest in the case, and you would need to request permission from the court to file one.
Here's a quick guide on what you can do:
- Support the Defendant: Gather all relevant information and evidence to support her defense. This includes any witness statements, photos, or videos.
- Encourage Communication: Advise her to communicate her concerns about representation to her court-appointed attorney or request a different one.
- Court Permission: To present information as a friend of the court, she'll need to seek permission from the court.
Would you like to help her with preparing this request, or do you have any other questions?
no thanks
If there’s anything else you need help with or any other legal questions you have, feel free to ask!
She is not sure the lights were flashing when she crept by after a few minutes but it would appear if they were off she was legal to pass and the driver was breaking the law if they were flashing. Following her home indicates the driver did not follow school rules. Can we charge the driver for illegally sitting there with lights flashing or illegally reporting a crime? It has to be one or the other
Case Rating: *
To address your questions:
*. Can the driver be charged for illegally sitting there with lights flashing?
- In Georgia, school bus drivers must follow specific protocols when using flashing lights. If the driver violated these protocols, it could be reported to the relevant school district or authorities for investigation.
*. Can the driver be charged for illegally reporting a crime?
- If the driver knowingly made a false report, it could be considered a crime. However, proving the intent behind the report can be challenging.
Would you like guidance on how to report these issues or any other assistance?