Many drivers are cited for traffic violations at some point in their lives. Many of these infractions are minor and come with a manageable fine. However, in some cases, people can lose their license or even face jail time, depending on the circumstances of the incident. You may not need to worry about getting legal help to pay a modest ticket. Hiring a lawyer may be a good idea in more dire situations, though.
You Believe The Penalty Was Unfair
If you receive a ticket for speeding, running a red light, failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign or any other moving violation, you have every right to challenge the penalty. You may feel the ticket was excessive or that suspending your license was unjust. If you believe the officer has incorrect information or violated your rights, you should speak to an attorney. You can explain your concerns and case to your lawyer, who will dig deeper into the matter and explore whether your complaints have merit. Your lawyer may be able to help get your ticket reduced or even thrown out. If you decide to fight the ticket in court, it may be a wise idea to ask an attorney to accompany you.
You Were Cited With a DUI or DWI
These charges carry a potential jail sentence and could have a significant impact on your driving record. Not all DUI and DWI cases are clear-cut. An experienced attorney will examine your situation to determine whether the arresting offers took appropriate steps in citing you with this charge. Your lawyer may also work to negotiate a lesser charge or a penalty other than jail time.
You Have Multiple Offenses
It’s not uncommon to get pulled over and ticketed for a traffic violation. Things get much more concerning when you’ve had three or more tickets in a short period, especially if the offenses are serious. If this is not the first time you’ve had a speeding or drunk-driving charge, you may want to consult an attorney to advise you on what to do next
Your License Was Suspended
Courts will likely suspend your license for reckless driving, multiple DUIs or multiple violations of excessive speeding. You could be without your license for anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on the severity of the charges. A traffic law attorney can walk you through the steps of appealing this ruling or reducing the suspension.
Everyone makes mistakes. If you made one behind the wheel, or if you believe your citation was unfair, speak to a traffic lawyer in Wytheville, VA today.
Thanks to The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt for their insight into criminal law and hiring an attorney for a traffic ticket.