A traffic Misdemeanor is an offense that is considered a level above a traffic infraction. Misdemeanors would encompass actions that were both intentional and could have affected either personal property or the personal safety of those nearby. For example, acts of speeding that result in an accident could result in a Misdemeanor, same as knowingly driving with an expired or suspended license or registration.
Misdemeanor traffic offense are far more serious than normal traffic charges since they may include a jail sentence of at least 60 days. As a result, those who have been charged with a criminal moving charge should speak with one of traffic defense Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert for assistance with avoiding these serious consequences. If you have been charged and would like to learn more, get in touch with a West Palm Beach Traffic Misdemeanor Lawyer today.
What Factors Can Elevate an Infraction to a Misdemeanor in West Palm Beach
There are several factors which could elevate a traffic violation to a Misdemeanor. For example, if a person is driving with a suspended license, but it was unknown to them that their license was suspended to begin with, that infraction may be payable and the driver would probably elect to got to driver’s school as a penalty. However, is a driver knowingly drives on a suspended license, the offense would rise to a Misdemeanor.
If a person was pulled over with an expired license, they may simply receive a ticket. However, if the expiration date exceeds six months, they could be charged with a traffic Misdemeanor since they must have known by then that their license was expired. Additionally, if a person without a license or with an expired license causes an accident that resulted in a death, they could be charged with a Felony. Anyone in need of advice about the basics of traffic Misdemeanors should speak with one of our dedicated West Palm Beach attorneys.
Misdemeanors Related to Speeding
While there is no specific speeding Misdemeanor, a charge of this level related to speeding might include reckless driving. If an accident was caused by another person’s reckless conduct, the driver could very well be charged with a Misdemeanor. Speeding alone is rarely a justified cause for a Misdemeanor offense, unless they were driving double the speed limit. Even so, the offense would not be charged as a Misdemeanor unless nearby individuals were in extreme danger. Regardless of the cause of a speeding misdemeanor, our tenacious lawyers in West Palm Beach could analyze a case and offer a defense strategy.
Penalties for Traffic Misdemeanors
The possible penalties for a traffic Misdemeanor could vary. For a second-degree Misdemeanor, drivers could be sentenced for up to 60 days in jail and face a $500 fine. The penalties for a first-degree Misdemeanor could be punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000.00-fine. The court would consider the details of the accident and whether the defendant is a repeat offender when determining when to issue a first or second degree Misdemeanor. A seasoned West Palm Beach attorney could also help minimize the impact of a traffic misdemeanor charge.
Contact a West Palm Beach Traffic Misdemeanor Attorney Today
Being charged with a traffic misdemeanor is more than just paying off a ticket and getting the matter over with. Since the offense is elevated to misdemeanor-level, you could face jail time if convicted. As a result, you need to do everything in your power to avoid having this type of criminal conviction on your record. Failing to mitigate this offense could have a significant impact on your future. However, with the help of a West Palm Beach traffic Misdemeanor lawyer, you may be able to keep your future intact. To begin discussing your case, schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys at Leifert & Leifert.
