Allegations of serious traffic violations require immediate intervention from an attorney who knows how to protect your rights and negotiate the best possible result according to the facts and applicable law. Don't delay. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation with an attorney who is experienced in handling traffic violations in your state.
Information You Need About Traffic Violations
Not all traffic violations should be handled with a "pay the ticket and forget it" mentality. Paying a fine is actually an admission of guilt and acceptance of all potential consequences of the violation, both those you know about and those that may come as a surprise.
Especially if you rely on your driver's license for employment or your daily life, talk with a lawyer before you give up your rights. At the Richardson Law Firm, PLLC in Durham, North Carolina, we give clients the information they need to make an informed decision about their traffic ticket or other violation. See below for general information about traffic violations, or contact us directly to consult on your specific case.
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Unfortunately, no one except your attorney is required to tell you what the hidden impacts of your traffic violation may be. What may only seem like a fine today can seriously impact your driving privileges later. If you rely on your driver's license for your business or home, then you should talk to an attorney before paying your ticket and essentially pleading guilty.
Whether you have been issued a citation for a traffic violation or you have been charged with driving while license revoked, we can help inform and represent your case. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Misdemeanor and Felony Traffic Offenses
Some traffic offenses are more serious than others and can result in penalties as serious as imprisonment. While a traffic infraction might be a minor matter if no one is hurt, the same incident can be a misdemeanor or felony if someone is hurt or killed or if there is serious property damage. Some specific traffic offenses, however, are considered serious violations on their own, such as drunk driving or operating a vehicle without a license. A person charged with a traffic-related crime should treat his or her situation seriously and contact an attorney at Richardson Law Firm, PLLC in Durham, North Carolina who can help to protect his or her legal rights.
Traffic Misdemeanors
Many traffic violations are classified as misdemeanors. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, with penalties in most states including fines and imprisonment of a year or less. Although precise traffic offense classifications vary on a state-by-state basis, traffic misdemeanors usually include driving without insurance or without a license.
In most states, a person with a misdemeanor conviction retains many rights that a convicted felon may lose, including professional and voting privileges. Sometimes, a skilled lawyer may be able to "plead down" an offense from a felony to a misdemeanor, which may minimize the penalty.
Traffic Felonies
Felonies are the criminal justice system's most serious crimes, punishable in most states by more than a year of imprisonment. Examples of traffic felonies include repeat DUI/DWI convictions and vehicular homicide.
A convicted felon may lose the right to vote or to practice certain professions, such as law and teaching. Felons may be prohibited from owning guns or serving in the military. Some states have a "three strikes" law that may result in a life sentence upon a third felony conviction.
Conclusion
Traffic charges must be taken as seriously as any other criminal charges because they can impact the offender's life far into the future. In order to best protect the future, if you or someone you love has been charged with the commission of a traffic-related misdemeanor or felony, do not hesitate to contact an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys at Richardson Law Firm, PLLC in Durham, North Carolina.
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