The primary goal of a traffic attorney is to minimize the penalties, fines, and other consequences that come with these offenses.
Representation in Court: A traffic attorney represents clients in court when they are charged with a traffic violation. For more severe offenses, such as DUI or reckless driving, the consequences can include substantial fines, suspension of driving privileges, and even jail time. A skilled traffic attorney can Traffic Attorney present evidence, question witnesses, and argue on behalf of the client to reduce the charges or penalties.
Negotiation with Prosecutors: Traffic attorneys often engage in negotiations with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties. For example, they might work to have a DUI charge reduced to reckless driving or to negotiate a plea deal that results in fewer points on a client’s driving record. This negotiation process requires a deep understanding of traffic laws, local court procedures, and the ability to build a compelling case for leniency.
Knowledge of Traffic Laws: Traffic attorneys are well-versed in both state and local traffic laws. Each jurisdiction has its own rules and regulations governing traffic offenses, and a traffic attorney can use this knowledge to find weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. They also understand the implications of a traffic offense on a person's driving record, insurance rates, and employment.
Protection of Driving Record: A clean driving record is important for maintaining low insurance rates and avoiding license suspension. Traffic attorneys work to protect their clients' records by challenging tickets and citations. If successful, this can prevent points from being added to the client’s record and can keep their insurance premiums from increasing.
Handling Complex Cases: Some traffic cases are more complex and require specialized legal knowledge, such as those involving multiple offenses, accidents resulting in injury or death, or commercial drivers facing violations that could impact their careers. Traffic attorneys can navigate these complexities, provide sound legal advice, and develop a strategy to minimize legal consequences.
Assistance with Administrative Hearings: Traffic attorneys also assist with administrative hearings, which are different from criminal court proceedings. For example, if someone’s driver’s license is at risk of being suspended due to accumulated points, a traffic attorney can represent them in hearings to contest the suspension or negotiate for alternative solutions, such as attending a driving school.
Counseling and Advice: Beyond representation, traffic attorneys provide valuable counseling and advice to their clients. They explain the potential outcomes of a case, the best and worst-case scenarios, and help clients understand their rights and options. They also advise on whether it is worth contesting a ticket or if it is better to accept a plea bargain.
Why Hire a Traffic Attorney?
Expertise and Experience: Traffic attorneys bring expertise and experience to cases that most individuals lack. While some people may opt to represent themselves in traffic court, they often find themselves at a disadvantage due to a lack of knowledge of the legal system and the intricacies of traffic laws.