Most people who get a traffic citation will just pay the fine and go about their lives. But those fines could be higher than you think, or you could lose your license if you’re judged guilty of more serious violations. You may have a good chance of getting a ticket; the state of Colorado issued nearly 21,000 citations in 2015, or one ticket for every 184 drivers. Few people are really qualified or prepared to defend themselves. Paying for a lawyer you can afford is the right move. Here’s some benefits of a lawyer representing you.
1. A lawyer will hear the facts surrounding your situation, evaluate your legal position, and give you several courses of action and the consequences to you. A good lawyer will give you all the information you need to make the right choice and resolve the matter as painlessly as possible. Many traffic lawyers charge a flat rate, and if you could be in serious trouble, you need serious help.
2. For more serious charges the lawyer will draw on his skill and experience to negotiate with any prosecutors. Often an attorney of long standing will have a relationship with the prosecutor and the court which will guide him in debating and bargaining in your case to get you the minimum penalty. You may be able to get away with a reduced fine or attending traffic school.
3. In court, a practiced lawyer will be able to make a more effective argument than you could put together on your own. They are already familiar with the relevant laws and proceedings, so they won’t be caught off guard. “Most people who represent themselves tend to be disorganized, or have even gone to great lengths to put together an argument which the court will find irrelevant,” said CDL Consultant. A lawyer is your best bet in putting forth a solid defense.
4. Traffic laws are becoming much stricter in the hope of reducing accidents. Many states have opted for a point system. Every ticket you plead guilty to could mean additional points on your license. In North Carolina, for instance, failure to properly secure a child seat is an automatic $125 fine, court costs, and two points against your license. In some states, a single speeding ticket could mean automatic suspension of your driver’s license if you’ve gone over 15 mph above the speed limit. A traffic lawyer will be familiar with your state’s current traffic laws and can best inform you of just what your legal situation is, and your chances of fighting the charges.
