state and federal governments are in a huge budget deficit now. so they will try to get as much revenue as possible. normally, when you appear in the courtroom, even if you loose, the judge will reduce the fine. however, i have heard stories that lately, the judge will most likely to increase the fine. there are cases the judge not only increased fine, also prohibited the person from going to the traffic school to have the points removed. the same is true for IRS and other federal government branches.
it is really difficult to argue a traffic ticket. under the circumstances, it is better to lay low. don't fight with the government.