I Have a Clean Driving Record: Can I Still Be Found Guilty for a First Traffic Violation?

If your driving record is clean, you may wonder if you should contact an experienced traffic law attorney when you receive a first traffic citation. The reality is that even a first ticket can have costly consequences. Having an attorney can help you understand your options if you’re facing your first driving offense and can minimize the penalties.

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How an Attorney Can Help You Fight a Traffic Violation

An experienced traffic violation lawyer knows what you can do to contest a traffic offense. They can speak to the prosecutor to see where you stand and how to proceed. You’ll have more success in court if an attorney accompanies you during the process.

Negotiation Skills

Prosecutors and traffic violation attorneys regularly communicate. By retaining legal counsel, you have a greater chance of getting your charges reduced or dismissed.

Ensuring a Clean Record

If you already have a clean driving record, you’ll have a better opportunity to get your traffic offense dismissed. Again, a lawyer can negotiate a deal that you wouldn’t obtain yourself from the prosecutor.

Preventing the Addition of Points on Your Driver’s License

If you can’t get a traffic violation dismissed, a lawyer might have the charge amended, so it won’t add points to your driver’s license and record. This is important, as collecting too many points can lead to extra fees and fines, surcharges, and a license suspension. You can end up paying more for your car insurance as well.

A lawyer who understands your charge and the alternatives can defer an unwanted violation and make everything more positive.

Reviewing Optional Penalties

If you do have a clean driving record, a lawyer may arrange for a conditional discharge or conditional dismissal to resolve a first-time offense. Under this diversionary program, you will complete a probation period and then pay court costs and fines. You just need to ensure your driving record remains clear during this span of time.

Setting More Positive Goals

Usually, an attorney’s first goal is to get a case dismissed. If you do have to proceed to court, your lawyer will plan a strategy for your defense, based on the circumstances of the case, to get the best possible results. By working with an attorney, you’re taking a more proactive stance – one that will ensure a fairer and more positive resolution.

The Best Case Scenario

You have a very good chance of not getting convicted of a traffic offense if you solicit the help of an attorney. Having an attorney at your side will prepare you for the next step. A case shouldn’t continue without good reason. Therefore, the best-case scenario is a dismissal. You’ll also get through the process more quickly and efficiently.

Can I Just Pay a Traffic Ticket Without Appearing in Court?

Yes, you can usually pay a fine online without a court appearance if the ticket does not require an appearance. However, it’s still a good idea to speak to a lawyer first if you wish to maintain a clean driving record.

So, if you receive a speeding ticket, you don’t necessarily have to go to court. Only higher traffic offenses lead to mandatory court dates.

However, it’s important to remember that if you want your case dismissed or don’t want to be found guilty, you will have to go to court.

How Long Does a Traffic Ticket Stay on Your DMV Record?

A traffic ticket might remain permanently on your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) history if you’re convicted.

How Long Does a Ticket Affect What You Pay for Insurance?

Usually, a ticket will increase your insurance premiums for three to five years. What you’ll pay depends on the policy and the severity of the violation.

Is It Possible to Pay for the Removal of Points on Your Driver’s License?

No, this is not an option. You must avoid points to begin with.

How Might an Attorney Negotiate a Speeding Violation?

Your lawyer might negotiate down your charge to an offense with zero points and a higher monetary penalty. (This is just an example of what a lawyer can do if you want to maintain future insurance costs or wish to avoid points.)

Contact a Traffic Defense Lawyer About Your Case Now – Don’t Delay

In most cases, it helps to get an objective legal opinion before paying a ticket and pleading guilty to a traffic offense. Learn more about your options by contacting a traffic defense lawyer today. Arrange a time for a case review and consultation right away.

When you schedule a consultation with a traffic lawyer, you can expect to receive advice and guidance tailored to your specific case. During the consultation, the lawyer will carefully review the details of your traffic ticket, including the circumstances surrounding the violation and any evidence that may exist.

They will ask you questions about your driving history, the events leading up to the ticket, and any previous legal issues you may have had. This information will help them understand the full context of your case and determine the best defense strategy to pursue.

Once the lawyer has gathered all the necessary information, they will provide you with an honest assessment of your options and the potential outcomes of each. They will explain the relevant traffic laws and regulations that apply to your case and outline the potential defenses they might use.

You can also expect the traffic lawyer to provide guidance on the steps you should take moving forward. They may recommend gathering additional evidence or witness statements, or suggest alternative options such as plea bargains or traffic school.

By consulting a Clifton criminal defense lawyer, you are putting yourself in the best position to achieve the most favorable outcome. With their experience and representation, you can feel confident in making informed decisions about how to proceed with your traffic ticket defense. So don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation and get the legal support you need.