Can an expired registration ticket be dismissed?

Expired Registration Ticket in State of Arizona - Specific Questions for LEO/Attorneys - Advice appreciated !?

• My question is this... My girlfriend & I moved to Arizona a few months ago. She was involved in a bad car accident in which her brand new car was deemed a total loss (long story.) After that happened, an acquaintance of mine was kind enough to let her use his $100,000 car. This vehicle is registered out of state (i.e. NOT in Arizona.) She also has an out-of-state driver's license. She was stopped today for, a primary offense, of having expired plates - which she had no idea about/did not think to look. The vehicle's insurance is definitely valid. Now, I do realize she was in possession of the automobile, and as a licensed driver is ultimately responsible for the content/etc. However, to contest this - would any of these be considered mitigating factors....? 1. Vehicle's registration is not in her name/in no way connected to her. 2. As stated, vehicle registered out of state, just expired. My friend did not receive the renewal notice because he has been in Arizona lately !! 3. She would have NEVER been driving the vehicle, had some idiot in a 20 year old pickup truck with four other people in the vehicle (including two unrestrained newborns) NOT ran into her !! This caused everyone involved to go to hospital, with her needing staples in head & physical therapy in her leg - and suffering the loss of her beloved 2009 car !! Lastly, what TYPICALLY happens in this situation (i.e. Expired Registration.) I personally feel the most important thing is that the insurance was current (most should agree with me here.) If the charge sticks, what will the likely fine amount be ? Today, I heard fines can be exorbitant - close to $900 which is absolutely ludicrous. This charge carries a mandatory court-date. Thank you so much !! I greatly appreciate it.

• Answer:

  The car should not have been on the road without a valid registration, This places guilt at your girlfriend's feet. She should not have driven a vehicle with expired plates. It is the registered owner of the vehicle who is responsible for maintaining valid registration. It doesn't matter where the owner is, it is his responsibility to register the vehicle. Expired tags are usually a mandatory 30-day impound in AZ. I am surprised the vehicle wasn't towed. Bottom line, your girlfriend drove a car with expired plates. whether she own the car or not, or whether she ever looked at the plates does not exonerate her from responsibility. Maybe she'll get a judge in a good mood, but don't hold your breath. They are very tough on this in AZ because it's a constant problem in this state. Lots of drivers with no license, no insurance and no registration come here from south of the border.