Many people assume that, if a police officer gives them a traffic ticket, they are obliged to pay the fine and to accept the consequences. While many criminal traffic violations such as reckless driving or DUI require the Defendant to appear in court, you may also request a day in court for civil traffic violations.
A Hollywood traffic Lawyer could help you fight your driving citation in court. Our detail-oriented defense attorneys at Leifert & Leifert could work to gather more information about the stop and question the officer who made the stop to build a strong defense. Telling a Judge or Hearing Official your side of the story could help to mitigate the consequences of a violation and help protect your rights as a driver.
Appealing a Driving Violation Ticket in Hollywood
All driving violations in Hollywood are heard by the local court system. This court has the jurisdiction hear appeals of traffic tickets when a driver pleads not guilty. However, the court will only hear the case upon driver request.
A driver must request a hearing within 30 days of the date the ticket. Once this time passes, the Court will assume that a defendant intends to plead guilty to the charge and issue a fine. After a hearing is requested, the Court will set a date for the driver and a police representative to report to Court. At the first hearing, called an arraignment, the Court will take an official plea of not-guilty.
You should be prepared to argue your case at the first court date if you request a hearing. However, the Court could also schedule another court date to hear the case depending on the circumstances. A Hollywood traffic lawyer could stand alongside you while arguing your cases and help to ensure the request is poorly filed.
Different Traffic Violations Courts Typically Hear
Some traffic violations amount to criminal offenses. These include reckless driving, driving without a license, and drunk driving. In these cases, a driver will face a criminal charge and appear in court.
Other traffic cases heard in court involve a driver contesting a civil moving violation. These typically include speeding, failing to signal before changing lanes, and running red lights. While these offenses cannot result in a jail sentence, drivers convicted may face a significant fine and points on their driver’s license. Carrying too many points may result in a license suspension.
A driver may argue the legitimacy of their traffic violation citation in court. A successful case could save a driver hundreds of dollars in fines, increased insurance premiums, and protect their right to hold a license. No matter the charges or their motivations for fighting a ticket, a traffic citation attorney in Hollywood may be able to help.
A Hollywood Traffic Attorney Could Protect Drivers’ Rights
Sometimes, accepting a ticket could seem easier than arguing with the police. However, if a Law Enforcement Officer incorrectly cites you, you could fight back. The Hollywood traffic lawyers from Leifert & Leifert could help with this process.
From investigating the incident, to filing paperwork, to presenting the case in court, one of our seasoned attorneys could guide you every step of the way. Reach out to our legal team today to discuss the citation received and how to protect your right to drive.
