I got cited for "Exhibiton of Speed" in California for revving my engine and doing a burn out. I didn't speed, I drive a manual and I tried explaining to the officer that my clutch slipped and I did not mean to do it on purpose. He threatened to arrest me but just gave me a ticket I wish to fight. My court date is coming up soon. What are my defenses?
In order to get a violation for Exhibition of Speed, you do not need to be speeding. Revving your engine, doing a burn out, or accelerating much faster than you should (which is considered unsafe), are all common examples of Exhibition of Speed.
In certain cases, the cop can lawfully arrest you, have your license suspended, and charge you with up to a Felony Offense depending on circumstances you were caught under.
Exhibition of Speed can usually be charged with up to a misdemeanor, possible jail time, and fines. A public defender would probably not be worthwhile or even defend you in this case, so if you want to fight this, you must hire a Traffic Attorney.