Getting a traffic ticket might seem like no big deal. However, if you plead guilty, you will pay the stated fine, which can vary widely depending upon the state and infraction, and the charge will stay on your driving record years to come.
When you receive a traffic ticket, you will have three options:
- Pay the ticket outright. In most states, you can avoid going to court by admitting guilt and paying the maximum fine within a specified time, typically 21 to 30 days.
- Go to traffic school. If it is your first traffic violation ever (or within a certain period) and you are willing to admit guilt, you have the option of attending traffic school in certain states.
- Contest the ticket. If you decide to fight the ticket in court, you’ll have a chance to get your fine reduced or beat the ticket entirely.
While you can choose to fight the ticket yourself, you’ll likely have much more success if you hire an attorney to assist you, particularly if you are facing license suspension or criminal charges. While ignorance of the law is not a defense, a traffic ticket lawyer could help you present a valid argument to allow you to beat the ticket, such as:
- Subjective determination. If you were ticketed based upon an officer’s personal observation, an attorney could cast doubt on his judgment.
- Mistake of fact defense. A lawyer might be able to help you prove that you made an honest or reasonable error –the lane lines were faded and difficult for you to see.
- Necessity defense. If you had to speed up to avoid an accident or to keep from hitting a pedestrian and were ticketed, a lawyer could help you make a valid necessity defense.
- Legally justified conduct. If your vehicle malfunctioned, preventing you from slowing down or stopping, an attorney might be able to persuade a judge to dismiss the ticket.
How Much Does a Traffic Ticket Lawyer Cost?
Generally, lawyers handle traffic ticket matters on a flat fee rather than on an hourly basis. The cost will depend on the specific issue involved and the attorney you choose. Generally, representation to contest a minor speeding ticket will be much less costly than for a more serious matter, such as a reckless driving charge.
Is There a Traffic Ticket Lawyer Near Me?
Depending upon where you live, it can be challenging to find a local traffic ticket lawyer. In urban areas, one need only look as far as the Internet, a passing bus or a nearby billboard, but in rural areas, finding a traffic attorney can be more difficult.
Off the Record is a technology platform that features a robust network of traffic ticket attorneys, including those practicing in rural areas. If you’re having trouble locating an attorney to help you fight your ticket, please give us some more information and we can tell you if we have a lawyer to help with you ticket, and we will provide you with a list of traffic ticket lawyers in your area along with information about what it will cost.
This information on this site is provided solely for informational purposes. It is not legal advice. Off The Record is not a law firm, does not provide legal services, and is not a lawyer referral service. The attorney listings on the site are paid attorney advertisements. Off the Record has not evaluated this content for accuracy, completeness, or changes in law. No representation is made here about your specific rights. Off The Record is not a substitute for an attorney or a law firm. Legal advice can only be provided by a licensed lawyer.
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