You need to find a lawyer for many traffic matters. Although some traffic violations are relatively straightforward and have mild penalties, other more serious offenses can have severe consequences. When you have been charged with a serious traffic violation, it is important to find a lawyer to speak with as soon as possible.
Find A Lawyer: Traffic Laws
The laws, statutes, and rules governing traffic crimes and offenses vary by state, county and city, and are commonly categorized as infractions (sometimes called civil offenses/civil violations), misdemeanors, and felonies. The penalties, as well as the process for resolution, are determined by how the laws are classified and the level of severity of the specific law that was violated. It’s important to find a lawyer who is knowledgeable of traffic laws and procedures in the locale where the charges were issued.
Find A Lawyer: Traffic Law Classifications
Traffic Infractions – Less serious traffic offenses are called infractions and are usually not considered a crime. These types of violations include speeding, driving recklessly, distracted driving, driving without a license, driving without insurance, or failure to stop at a red light or stop sign.
There are several options for handling traffic infractions. Although the fines and penalties are usually less severe than more serious charges, there can still be unwelcome consequences if not handled properly. Thus, it is advisable for violators to find a lawyer for handling the infraction charges. There are several outcomes that are possible, such as a reduction (or dismissal) of the charges, reduced or no fines, and fewer points off your driving record.
Traffic Misdemeanors – Misdemeanor traffic offenses carry harsher penalties, and carry large fines and even jail time, depending on applicable laws and when certain aggravating factors are present. For instance, when exceeding the speed limit results in an accident, it elevates the charge from a simple speeding ticket to a misdemeanor violation.
Misdemeanors are considered crimes and are handled in criminal court. The process for resolving criminal misdemeanor charges is essentially the same, in most jurisdictions, with little variation. Defendants should find a lawyer as soon as they have been charged to represent them in a criminal court of law.
Not only do traffic-related misdemeanor violations carry larger fines and harsher penalties, but they may also include revocation or suspension of driving privileges. More importantly, a conviction can result in up to a year in jail. You should immediately find a lawyer to negotiate criminal misdemeanor charges.
Traffic Felonies – The most serious traffic-related offenses are classified as felonies. A felony charge is prosecuted in criminal court, and sentencing is harsh. It can lead to thousands of dollars in fines and years in prison. Examples of felony traffic offenses include:
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- Leaving the Scene of an Accident
- Driving Under the Influence
- Operating with Suspended/Revoked License
- Refusal to Stop for an Officer
- Vehicular Manslaughter/Homicide
There are a number of factors that can affect felony traffic matters, and an experienced criminal defense lawyer is your best choice if you’re facing these types of charges, and improve your chances for a more favorable outcome in court.
Find A Lawyer: Traffic Laws In Missouri
Find A Lawyer: Traffic Laws In Kansas
Find A Lawyer: What To Do First
When you have been charged with a traffic violation, you have several options. You may choose to admit responsibility, plead not guilty and pay the fine. Or you can contest the charges and find a lawyer to handle the matter. Depending on the nature of the charges, it could mean the difference in walking away or spending time in prison.
Find A Lawyer Who Is Experienced In Traffic Matters
You need to find a lawyer who is experienced in handling traffic matters to explain your options and negotiate with prosecutors and the courts on your behalf. You should never assume that receiving a citation for a traffic violation doesn’t matter. While some offenses may be less serious with milder penalties, repeated offenses can accumulate enough points to your driving record, which drives up insurance costs. In addition, there is the potential for suspension or revocation of your license to drive.
Find A Lawyer: Divine Law, Kansas City
With Craig M. Divine you find a lawyer who has trial experience on both sides of the state line having tried DUI/DWI, and other traffic matters in Kansas and Missouri Courts. Craig M. Divine has also litigated in the Kansas Court of Appeals and the Kansas Supreme Court.
Divine Law Office LLC
816-474-2240
Kansas City, Missouri