Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
“I was wondering if you can do time or weekends in jail instead of paying a fine for a traffic ticket that might already be a warrant?”
That is entirely up to the judge. Of course, if there is a warrant out for your arrest, you are looking at the possibility of doing time anyways, and there is no guarantee that you won’t also have to pay a fine.
