Traffic Ticket Frequently Asked Questions
1. What happens if I just pay my ticket?
If you receive a traffic ticket and you think - "the responsible thing to do is to pay for it" - you would be responsible but you would also be assessed points for any moving violation you pay. These points would appear on your driving record and your insurance can use this fact as a reason to raise your automobile insurance rates. That may not make a lot of sense but that is the way it works.
2. What options do I have if I get a ticket?
Option 1 is to just pay the ticket. That will get you points and points can lead to a suspension. Option 2 is to "elect" driving school. This will keep the points off if done correctly. Option 3 is to set your ticket for a hearing. You must attend the hearing and at the hearing you can present your defenses.
3. Why should I hire an Attorney to represent me on a traffic ticket?
An Attorney that is knowledgeable about traffic court can set your ticket for a hearing, represent you at the hearing without the need of you having to be there (in most cases) and present your case to the traffic court. Many things can happen at the hearing that the Traffic Ticket Attorney can deal with that a driver with a job cannot - such as continuances by the court or the police, missing witnesses for the state, amendments to traffic citations, etc. Hiring a Traffic Ticket Attorney covers all these things and takes the need to prepare and attend out from your life.
4. What is the worst thing that can happen to me if I just pay my traffic ticket?
The worst thing that can happen is that the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles [DMV] will suspend your driver's license. By just paying you will receive points on all moving violations. Moreover, you give up the possibility of having the citation dismissed by the court. Finally, you insurance rates may go up if you receive points for a ticket.
If your ticket is for "Driving With a Suspended Drivers License [DWLS]" and you just pay the ticket you may be subjecting yourself to a 5-year drivers license suspension. Please call regarding all DWLS tickets you receive. We can prevent these from becoming long suspensions.
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