Receiving a ticket can be more than just a minor inconvenience on your way to work. While most of these offenses do not result in jail time, paying the ticket and admitting guilt can be a costly mistake that leads to long-term consequences.
You have the right to challenge a ticket, which could result in a dismissal or keeping it off your driving record. A skilled criminal defense attorney could efficiently manage every aspect of your case, helping you secure the best possible outcome. Discussing your options with a St. Charles traffic lawyer before paying the ticket is crucial to ensuring you make an informed decision.
Common Violations
There are many potential traffic violations under the law, with some carrying more serious penalties than others. However, most offenses typically result in monetary fines and points on the person’s driver’s license. Only a few charges – such as a DUI – carry the risk of jail time. Common traffic violations include:
- Speeding
- Expired tags
- Failure to yield
- Following too closely
- Driving without insurance
- Driving with a suspended license
Many people do not realize that tickets for these offenses can lead to severe financial consequences. Seeking the assistance of a traffic violation attorney in St. Charles could be crucial to avoiding a conviction.
Responding to a Ticket in a Timely Manner
Regardless of how a person chooses to respond to a traffic violation, they have a limited time to act. State citations offer the accused individual the option to either plead guilty or request a trial. However, they must make their decision within 30 days. If they fail to respond within the deadline, the ticket is treated as “in default” and can lead to the suspension of driving privileges.
If a person chooses to plead guilty, they are only required to return the ticket with their payment to the court. While this may be the fastest option to resolve a case, it may lead to detrimental consequences. Pleading guilty not only accrues points on an individual’s driving record but can also increase the cost of their car insurance. In some cases, a person’s license may even be suspended.
Requesting a trial gives a driver time to consult with legal counsel and challenge the charges. Once someone requests a trial, they will receive a notice in the mail with the date, time, and location of the hearing. During the hearing, a credible St. Charles traffic ticket attorney could contest the evidence and work to secure an acquittal.
Traffic Court Hearings
The hearing date on the ticket is technically an arraignment, though many courts will allow the trial to proceed the same day. Given the limited time, it is essential to enlist the help of a traffic offense lawyer in St. Charles as soon as possible.
An attorney could arrange for witnesses to testify and present other crucial evidence at the hearing to support a driver’s claim. While there is no guarantee that a driver will successfully avoid a conviction, challenging the evidence in court could increase a person’s chances of a favorable outcome.
Speak With a St. Charles Traffic Attorney Today
If you have received a traffic ticket, you have options aside from paying the fine and accepting the penalties. Fighting the charge with an accomplished legal team by your side may lead to a better resolution. Retain a St. Charles traffic lawyer today to protect your driving record and help minimize legal consequences.
