Fighting Speeding Tickets

Fighting Speeding Tickets

Three Easy Steps To Fighting Speeding Tickets In Northern Virginia

Unlike reckless driving or driving on a suspended license, a speeding ticket is not considered a criminal charge.  However, a conviction for speeding can have long-lasting and expensive consequences, such as increased insurance rates or even administrative license suspension.  There are several technical defense issues involved with fighting speeding tickets in Northern Virginia, ranging from radar and speedometer calibrations to police officer pacing.  An experienced traffic attorney will be able to help you in those areas.  But what can you do on your own to minimize the impact of a speeding ticket?

First, be cooperative, calm, and polite with the police officer at the scene.  This doesn’t mean admit you were wrong; in fact, don’t say anything regarding the offense if you can help it, and certainly don’t consent to a search or anything else you feel is unreasonable.  But if you are polite and follow the officer’s instructions during the stop, he or she will remember that on your court date.  Arguing with the officer is almost never a productive thing to do. Leave that to your lawyer.

Second, consider attending a DMV-approved driver improvement course.  Sometimes, a speeding conviction cannot be avoided.  When this happens, the court notifies the DMV, and the DMV assigns demerit points to your record based on the severity of the offense.  The judge has nothing to do with DMV point assessment.  If a certain number of demerit points are assessed within certain time periods, the DMV can suspend your license.  If you feel this is a possibility, a driver improvement course can help you earn up to 5 “safety points” before your court date.  This may significantly reduce the impact a speeding conviction will have.

Third, particularly if you decide to proceed without an attorney, know some of the basics of traffic court.  Show up to court early.  If you cannot make court that day, call the clerk ahead of time.  Otherwise, you will be tried in your absence.  When you get to court, talk with the police officer (and possibly the Commonwealth’s Attorney).  Discuss your driving record with them and inquire whether they are willing to enter into an agreement for a deferred finding or reduction.  If you cannot reach a reasonable agreement, plead not guilty and make the officer present the evidence against you.  Or, you can ask for a continuance and consult an attorney.

Remember, your best bet is to consult an experienced traffic attorney who is familiar with fighting speeding tickets in Northern Virginia, especially if you are in danger of license suspension, or your case involves a car accident.  The consequences of conviction could be more severe than you know.

John Irving brings a working knowledge of all aspects of the legal process to any case or client with his extensive and eclectic legal background. In 1997, John received his undergraduate bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Shortly after graduation he began work as a fraud investigator for the City of New York. John handled thousands of cases involving welfare and housing fraud. Following this position, he was recruited to and employed by the Prince William County Police Department where he exhibited his superior abilities and received several commendations and awards.

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      For An Evaluation Of Your Legal Matter Call Or Email Us Below


      Disclaimer: Contacting us using the website's forms and phone does not create an attorney-client relationship.