Traffic violations are rarely categorized as criminal offenses. Most people limit traffic offenses to speeding fines or minor movement offenses. For instance, most people think that running a red light or failing to stop correctly are the only traffic offenses.
The truth is that they make up the majority of traffic charges in most states. But a state can charge drivers with other and far more serious traffic offenses. And more often, the penalties for these offenses are extremely harsh.
This article will explore the importance of hiring a criminal defense attorney for traffic offenses.
A Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help You Fight the Traffic Ticket
Negotiations may be possible in the case of a major driving offense. Even if you are not facing criminal charges, a lawyer can help you decrease the fine related to the ticket.
This is because they are familiar with the system and how to deal with traffic court. A traffic violation attorney is significantly better equipped to represent you in this case. Furthermore, they are better positioned to spot a potential settlement that could reduce your fines.
You could risk losing your driver’s license if you have an excessive amount of speeding tickets. Besides, you should also think about the cost of a taxi and the potential of losing your job.
Furthermore, losing a driver’s license might have a financial impact on your family. Compared to the other charges, a criminal traffic attorney fee appears modest.
The truth is that there are some situations in which a lawyer is not required. You may consider hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney depending on the severity of your allegations.
A Traffic Violation Legal Expert Can Help Manage Your Insurance Rates
Accepting responsibility for speeding can cost you more than just the fines. Furthermore, many people will see an increase in their insurance premiums. Your insurance will cost you thousands of dollars.
A minor speeding ticket might result in a 22% rise in premiums. On the other hand, a careless driving ticket could result in a far greater fine. Furthermore, you’ll raise an alarm if you start looking for cheaper insurance. So, insurance providers will look at your driving record before insuring your vehicle.
As a result, if you have many traffic points, you’ll be stuck with pricey insurance packages. Furthermore, you risk insurance cancellation if you have too many points.
Vehicle insurance is a necessity in most states. As a result, it will be pretty challenging to find a new insurance provider.
So, if you get a traffic ticket, you’ll need an attorney who will stand by your side every step of the way. To dismiss evidence against you, he must be very competent at his job. Furthermore, you must work together to choose the best course of action.
A Judge May Take You More Seriously
Most Judges in traffic courts tend to pay more attention to an attorney. You benefit more if you contact an attorney to accompany you to a traffic court and present your case.
Let’s be honest. Judges listen to very many stories every day. Hence this makes them tired. This is because some of them are imaginative and magical.
But, it’s easy for them to listen to an attorney who has a credible track record. A judge may take your case seriously if you have a criminal defense lawyer for traffic offenses. Besides, you have a right to be heard if your driving record is at risk.
When an attorney tells your story, it has the potential to gain credibility. An attorney knows different ways of successfully defending traffic cases in court.
You will have an uphill task persuading a judge to believe that you were unaware of your speed. Or that feigning ignorance, you didn’t have to stop from a school bus.
But having an experienced attorney will present arguments that will compel a court to listen. You risk losing a traffic case if you present typical excuses to a court. The court will not sit down to hear, ruling against your case.
An Attorney for Traffic Violations Can Represent You In Court
You may have a hectic schedule or live in a different state. It may be an inconvenience to drive back and forth to court many times. Considering the cost of childcare expenses, lost wages, fuel, etc.
The good thing is that traffic attorneys, in most cases, can attend court on your behalf. At least you won’t need to worry about missing court appearances. Everyone would wish to have this peace of mind. That’s why it is essential to consider contacting a traffic defense lawyer.
Time and Location May Affect the Traffic Laws
Besides your location and where you drive, traffic regulations are not static. These are some of the most regularly amended laws.
Hiring an experienced criminal attorney for traffic offenses is vital if you want detailed legal representation. The attorneys are well-positioned to approach your case with a thorough and current knowledge of your state’s traffic rules.
You will receive counsel on any traffic infringement that you may face at the moment. With this knowledge, it becomes possible regardless of the complexity of the cases. As earlier mentioned, you won’t appear ignorant of the state’s traffic rules.
If You Are a Commercial Driver
You may constantly require a legal presentation if you’re a commercial truck driver. You can’t afford to have a criminal defense lawyer since driving a car is your livelihood.
If you lose your driving license, it may be challenging to support yourself or your family. Commercial drivers in most states are often subjected to harsh penalties for traffic violations. Besides, you risk losing a job or the chances of finding another one with a poor driving record.
Commercial drivers’ traffic violations are judged harshly compared to normal driving offenses. This is because judges expect truck drivers to be extra cautious while on the road. Therefore, hiring an attorney may help you navigate the charges and defend your driving license.
So When Is It Critical to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney for Traffic Offenses?
Of course, you may not need an attorney for all traffic offenses. But you need to understand when it’s vital to contact one. Here are a few instances of why you should get a lawyer.
- If you’re a commercial driver
- If your license is suspended
- You have a poor driving record
- You’re involved in major traffic offenses, for instance, driving under the influence, hit and run, vehicular manslaughter, etc.
Key Take Away
You should prepare to have an attorney for a traffic ticket if you’ve never considered one before. Having a traffic lawyer representing you increase your chances of winning your case. Regardless of the offense, this is from a speeding ticket or driving with a suspended license.
Besides, most attorneys will advise you if you need representation or if you can manage the situation on your own.
