Does this sound like a reasonable plea?

I live in Massachusetts and recently got a ticket for turning left on green arrow only. I didn't mean to intentionally ignore the sign but I was unfamiliar with the area and I didn't notice the sign until I started turning. I pretty much had to complete the turn because I couldn't stop in the middle of the road. I was promptly pulled over and ticketed and now I'm wondering If I explain this in court I could least get the points taken off. Even If I have to pay the fine as long as I don't get points on my license. I was going to explain to the judge that I was wrong and made an honest mistake. I didn't intend to break the law I just screwed up. Also I was going to mention that I am really desperate to at least have the points taken off because I don't want to lose my insurance.

you don't need a lawyer for a traffic ticket like this unless you were drunk or caused an accident or something.
what does your driving record look like? you could try referencing it (if its good) and get a copy to bring to court.
don't be whiny and don't go in looking like a dirtbag. judges aren't all assholes.
good luck.

Good Luck! If you where in the wrong and the police officer can prove it, expect to pay the fine along with getting points on your license. There is no way out of this one, unless you know some of the police officers, and maybe get it squashed.

you can use whatever excuse you want. it is entirely up to the judge as to the ruling. you might be able to get the city attorney to recommend a lower penalty. just go to the court date and ask. it can't hurt right.

You could try... but the answer is generally "ignorance is not an excuse". They'll probably tell you that's too bad, pay attention next time.

use a lawyer...best bet...2nd explain yourself.

You might want to reconsider your plea approach. It might not be a good idea to mention anything about your pending insurance gloom. Consider: Everyone (even a Judge) knows that points = increased insurance costs and for good reason. That is immaterial to your case and undermines any argument you might make that the infraction was unintentional on your part. You have responsibilities as a licensed driver to follow the rules of the road. This includes very simple things like observing road signs, lane markings, speed limits, and traffic lights. You were not attentive. You do not seem to realize that you were in the wrong. That is why you were cited immediately. What is the "honest mistake" that you made? Not observing the traffic light that by law you were obligated to follow.
Luckily, you did not kill anyone.
This time.
You could lose your insurance for this simple infraction? My Gawd, man what else have you done previously to put the Public at risk?
You will be lucky to retain your privilege to drive if you are Chronic. .