when should you get a lawyer for a speeding ticket

by Amani Kovacek 10 min read

If you are not sure whether to hire a speeding ticket lawyer, you should consider the type of charge you are facing. If you are only facing a minor charge and a small fine, it may not be necessary to hire a lawyer. However, if you are facing a more serious charge that can cause you to suffer severe consequences, it may be worth hiring a lawyer.

Full Answer

What happens if you pay a speeding ticket instead of paying?

Jun 16, 2021 · Hiring an attorney for your speeding ticket doesn’t automatically fix the problem. However, a lawyer can present your case to the prosecutor or Judge in a way that could get your case dropped or so that you don’t get any points on your license. No points = No insurance increase, no Driver Improvement Program, no license suspension or revocation.

What should I do if I get a speeding ticket?

Feb 09, 2021 · Let App WinIt fight your speeding ticket. If you have gotten a speeding ticket it is worth it to get a lawyer. That’s because, with a good lawyer, you will have a much better chance of beating the traffic charges. Getting a lawyer is important. But even more important is getting a good lawyer. Knowing what to look for in a lawyer can make or break your case.

Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket?

Dec 19, 2019 · As mentioned, it is not necessary, but it could be a great help to your case to hire a lawyer. Most people hire lawyers for more serious accusations rather than just a speeding ticket. However, those who are wrongfully accused may hire a lawyer to either get the case thrown out, lower the penalties, or even seek compensation.

Is it worth it to hire a traffic ticket attorney?

You may want to get a lawyer for a speeding ticket as they have an in-depth understanding of traffic laws and they know the technicalities for how to get cases reduced or dismissed. For example, the courts may dismiss cases entirely if: The officer who issued the speeding ticket does not show up at the court as a witness

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What is Winit app?

The WinIt app helps connect you with many of the local attorneys in your area, not just the ones you can find on Google. These lawyers come with plenty of reviews from satisfied (or dissatisfied) clients, so you know exactly what you’re getting into.

How much does speeding ticket increase insurance premiums?

Speeding tickets have been shown to increase automobile insurance premiums by around 23.2%. If you’re paying the average price for insurance, you could lose another $341 in insurance premiums this year. But that’s not the end of it. Insurance investigators can typically see up to four years of your driving record.

How many points do you get for speeding in New York?

Almost every state in the country uses some kind of point system. In New York, for example, that point system lists speeding tickets at between 3 and 11 points. Get 12 points on your license within 18 months and you’re looking at a suspension. Beat your ticket, however, and you’re looking at a point-free license.

Why do lawyers charge fixed fees?

Prices vary between law firms, but most only cost a fraction of the ticket value. Some lawyers use fixed prices to help ensure that everybody is treated fairly. Others offer prices based on the difficulty of the case and how likely they are to win.

How do lawyers win a case?

Lawyers Often Have Relationships With Judges or Prosecutors. One of the best ways to win a case is to be friends with the judge and the prosecutor. Unless you’ve spent a lot of time in the courthouse, odds are you won’t have that kind of relationship with them.

Why is it important to get a lawyer?

That’s because, with a good lawyer, you will have a much better chance of beating the traffic charges. Getting a lawyer is important. But even more important is getting a good lawyer. Knowing what to look for in a lawyer can make or break your case. Here are a few questions you should ask when looking for a lawyer.

What is an expert witness in traffic?

Police officers are often considered expert witnesses on the subject of traffic tickets. That means what they say is likely going to be viewed as more credible than what you say. The best way to get through that defence is to use their own words against them. That’s where an attorney comes in.

What to do if someone doesn't have your best interest at heart?

In such cases, do your best to research the offense and then apply tips in avoiding speeding tickets when you’re back on the road.

Why do people hire lawyers?

Most people hire lawyers for more serious accusations rather than just a speeding ticket . However, those who are wrongfully accused may hire a lawyer to either get the case thrown out, lower the penalties, or even seek compensation. 2.

How can a lawyer help you?

3. How a Lawyer Can Help You 1 Negotiate – Lawyers are master negotiators since it’s a big part of their job. For more serious cases, your lawyer could cut your jail time in half or even get you off on probation/community service. For traffic tickets, it’s more likely that they will try to get the case thrown out or a reduced fine. 2 Consultation – Some lawyers offer a consultation at a reduced or even free price (if you have benefits). They can give you an honest and unbiased opinion about your case, and analyze several different approaches and outcomes for you to make an informed final decision. 3 Representation – Lastly, they and you can decide to move forward with the case, in which they will represent you in a court of law.

What is a consultation lawyer?

Consultation – Some lawyers offer a consultation at a reduced or even free price (if you have benefits). They can give you an honest and unbiased opinion about your case, and analyze several different approaches and outcomes for you to make an informed final decision.

How to make sure you make the best decision?

Follow these extra tips to make sure you make the best decision. Take your time – Always take your time. Not many good decisions in life are made in a hurry. It takes a while to process your case, so take the time to do some research.

Can I get a speeding ticket without a lawyer?

We will say that if your answers to these questions are a resounding “yes”, then generally, hiring a lawyer would probably cost you a great deal more for just a speeding ticket. If you have to appear before a court, you can help your case without a lawyer. Just know the right things to say in court to make your case better.

Can a lawyer cut jail time?

For more serious cases, your lawyer could cut your jail time in half or even get you off on probation/community service. For traffic tickets, it’s more likely that they will try to get the case thrown out or a reduced fine.

What happens if you have multiple speeding tickets?

If you have multiple speeding tickets on your record, the penalties for speeding violations can become more severe, with higher fines under PA 75 § 3362, points on your record under PA 75 § 1535, and possibly the loss of your driver’s license. You may want to get a lawyer for a speeding ticket as they have an in-depth understanding ...

What does it mean when you get a speeding ticket?

A ticket can mean points added to your license, which can mean an increase in your insurance rates that could last for years after you receive the speeding ticket, especially if you are a young driver.

What does a lawyer do when a case goes to trial?

If a case does go to trial, a lawyer has the confidence to question the officer who issued the citation and knows the questions to ask.

What happens if your license is suspended?

If your license becomes suspended, you could be facing the high cost and inconvenience of finding alternative means of transportation. The loss of your job over a ticket may even be a possibility, as your contract may state that you cannot be found guilty of a moving violation.

Can a speeding ticket be reduced?

Depending on your record, such as whether you have received multiple recent speeding tickets, the prosecutor may be more willing to agree to reduced charges in order to avoid the time and expense of going to trial. A lawyer may be able to help you avoid a suspended license or expensive fines if you agree to a lesser charge like a nonmoving violation or if you agree to attend a traffic school.

Who is the attorney for speeding ticket in Pennsylvania?

If you are considering getting a lawyer for a speeding ticket in Pennsylvania, contact McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. at (610) 991-7219. Attorney David McKenzie is a former prosecutor who will fight to help you keep your license and reduce the impact a speeding ticket will have on your future.

Can a lawyer help you avoid a suspended license?

A lawyer may be able to help you avoid a suspended license or expensive fines if you agree to a lesser charge like a nonmoving violation or if you agree to attend a traffic school. All of these alternatives are usually better than the consequences of the speeding ticket. A ticket can mean points added to your license, ...

What is a CDL driver?

Commercial Drivers. Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders drive for a living and are subject to stricter rules than other drivers. Under these rules, certain traffic violations can lead to CDL revocation. So, the stakes in traffic court for commercial drivers can be very high. With so much on the line, it would make sense to get an attorney ...

What is the difference between a minor traffic violation and a serious traffic violation?

There are some major differences between minor traffic violations (like speeding or running a stop sign) and more serious driving-related crimes like driving under the influence (DUI) and reckless driving. In short, the consequences of a minor traffic violation conviction are generally much less severe than those for a DUI or other criminal charges. So, whereas you might be able to contest a traffic ticket without an attorney, fighting a serious charge like a DUI without legal representation typically isn't a good plan.

Why is it difficult to represent yourself in traffic court?

One of the problems with representing yourself is the lack of experience and legal knowledge. The average person just doesn't know what the best courses of action are in a given case. Experienced traffic attorneys have the best idea of what tactics and options are available for obtaining good results. And, it's not all legal knowledge. Attorneys who spend lots of time in traffic court are familiar with the tendencies of the different judges and sometimes of the law enforcement officers who write the tickets. This local knowledge can prove valuable in deciding how to defend against a ticket.

How many times do you have to go to court for a traffic ticket?

If you decide to fight a traffic ticket, you'll generally have to go to court at least twice. But if you hire an attorney, you typically won't have to go to court at all. In other words, your attorney can represent you in court without you being present.

Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a traffic ticket?

It generally depends on the circumstances. For many people, hiring an attorney for a traffic ticket is definitely worth the cost. However, in some situations, a driver is better off not spending the extra money to retain a lawyer. Here are some factors you might want to consider before making the call.

Is it worth hiring a traffic attorney?

In some circumstances, hiring a traffic attorney clearly isn't worth the expense. For example, if you're eligible for traffic school and don't have a reasonable chance of beating your ticket, it's probably best to forgo hiring an attorney. Generally, you can sign up for traffic school without even going to court, so there isn't much benefit of having legal representation—you can just do it yourself.

Can you contest a traffic ticket without an attorney?

So, whereas you might be able to contest a traffic ticket without an attorney, fighting a serious charge like a DUI without legal representation typically isn't a good plan.

What Do Traffic Attorneys Do?

You probably already know that most lawyers specialize in one or a few areas of law. Traffic lawyers specialize in the rules and regulations binding motorists on the public roads.

Are Traffic Lawyers Worth the Money?

Lawyers handle billing differently for traffic tickets. Their rates vary based on the complexity of your case and the location in which you were ticketed. Many firms charge an hourly rate to represent you in court to fight your ticket. Others apply a flat fee.

Tips for Finding a Lawyer

Finding a good lawyer can feel like a wild goose chase - but it shouldn’t have to.

Handle Your Ticket Off The Record!

At Off The Record, we’ve found an innovative way to handle speeding tickets outside of the traditional court process. To do this, we’ve developed an app (for iOS or Android, or old-fashioned web) that connects you with an experienced traffic lawyer in your area.

How long can you go to jail for a speeding ticket in Missouri?

A violation of basic speeding law may appear as a Class B Misdemeanor, carrying up to six months in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine, whereas, a violation of absolute limits may appear as a Class C Misdemeanor, carrying up to 15 days in jail and a maximum of $750 in fines. An experienced lawyer can work with the prosecutor to help you avoid or minimize any jail time. If you are facing possible jail time for a speeding violation, it is important that you contact an attorney as soon as possible to determine the best course of action. In many cases, when you get a lawyer for a speeding ticket, they will be able to negotiate an agreement for you to pay a slightly increased fine and court costs in exchange for pleading to a reduced non-moving violation which carries no jail time.

How long does a speeding ticket stay on your record in Missouri?

Under Missouri’s point system, pleading guilty to a speeding ticket can add up to three points to your driving record, and the charge will remain on your record for five years. The more points you accumulate on your driving record, the higher your risk of having your license suspended if you receive an additional ticket.

How long does a second license suspension last?

A second suspension will last 60 days, and a third suspension will last 90 days. If you accumulate 12+ points in 12 months, 18+ points in 24 months, or 24+ points in 36 months, you will lose your license for a year. It is advantageous to have as few points on your record as possible.

Does having points on your driving record increase your insurance premiums?

Having points on your driving record is likely to increase your insurance premiums. Insurance companies review your driving records before issuing quotes and having even just one speeding violation is likely to cause significantly higher premiums than a record without a speeding violation. In many circumstances, a lawyer is able to help keep your record clean, which will prevent your insurance premiums from increasing.

Can you go to jail for a speeding ticket?

In many cases, when you get a lawyer for a speeding ticket, they will be able to negotiate an agreement for you to pay a slightly increased fine and court costs in exchange for pleading to a reduced non-moving violation which carries no jail time.

Who is Aimee Gromowsky?

Aimee Gromowsky is formerly an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Jackson County and currently a private practice lawyer. Ms. Gromowsky handles thousands of cases in Kansas City, Missouri area courts and was honored with a “Best in Bar” award in 2007 and 2008 from the Kansas City Business Journal. As a Kansas City traffic lawyer, Aimee is determined to represent you in your case by providing exceptional legal counsel and service.

What to do if you fight a speeding ticket?

If you plan to fight the ticket, you’ll have to go to court, where a prosecutor will have to prove you were speeding. Even if you think the ticket is unjustified, speeding violations are hard to beat. If the officer doesn’t show up at the hearing, you could be off the hook, but don’t rely on that. If you ask for a hearing, plan to make your case ...

How much does a 40 year old driver pay for a speeding ticket?

On average, a 40-year-old driver with good credit and minimum coverage will pay $148 more per year with one speeding ticket on their record. If you do end up accepting the speeding ticket, it’s crucial to compare car insurance ...

How much does a traffic lawyer cost?

A traffic lawyer costs between $250 and $350 on average nationally, according to Thumbtack, an online marketplace for service professionals. A speeding ticket costs anywhere from $50 up to $2,500 in some states in the severest cases.

What to do if a police officer doesn't show up?

If the officer doesn’t show up at the hearing, you could be off the hook, but don’t rely on that. If you ask for a hearing, plan to make your case and be questioned before a judge. Check the ticket to find out whether a state, county or local officer issued it and search online for traffic procedures in that jurisdiction.

What to do if police officer can't remember you?

Be polite, don’t argue, and try to be unremarkable. If the officer can’t remember you, he or she might fail to recall details in front of a judge.

Does paying a speeding ticket affect your record?

You pay all or some of the ticket, but it doesn’t affect your driving record. You take a driving course instead of paying the speeding ticket. The ticket is reduced to a lesser fine. You’re given extra time to pay the fine.

Is it bad to pay $50 for a speeding ticket?

If you decide to pay the speeding ticket. Although paying a $50 ticket might not seem that bad, consider the true cost of a speeding ticket. Besides paying the initial fee, after a ticket, your car insurance rates can rise by hundreds of dollars per year. For instance, NerdWallet’s 2020 rate study found that:

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