Anne Arundel County Traffic Lawyer
In Anne Arundel County, there are many driving offenses that can result in a person accumulating points on their license, paying hefty fines, or even going to jail. Many of these offenses are the result of a simple mistake, yet they can have disastrous consequences. For example, you could potentially be forced to spend an entire year in jail if you are convicted of driving with a suspended license. Having a criminal record could also prevent you from being able to rent an apartment, get a job, or secure a loan. An Anne Arundel criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and help protect you from these harsh penalties if you are charged with a traffic-related offense.
Anne Arundel Traffic Lawyers Handle These Cases
In Maryland, traffic offenses are divided into two categories: payable and must appear. “Must appear” offenses are those that are punishable by a jail sentence, such as driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or driving on a suspended license. Payable traffic offenses are mostly speeding violations. An Anne Arundel traffic lawyer can help with both types of traffic citations. The list below contains the most common must appear infractions:
- Reckless driving
- Driving with suspended/revoked driver’s license
- Driving without insurance
- Following too closely
- Leaving the scene of an accident (also known as a hit and run)
- Habitual offender charge
- DUI/DWI
- Vehicular assault or vehicular manslaughter in connection with a drunk driving arrest
Most frequently ticketed traffic violations in Maryland:
- Driving While License Suspended or Revoked – this offense carries the risk of significant jail time (one year for a first offense and up to three years for subsequent offenses). Up to 12 points may be assessed to your driving record along with a fine of up to $1,000. In some instances, your Anne Arundel traffic lawyer may defend you by challenging the original suspension.
- Speeding Tickets – the penalty for a speeding ticket depends on how fast you allegedly were traveling. You may be eligible for probation before judgment.
- Reckless Driving – examples include: racing, failing to signal, passing a school bus, driving with faulty brakes, and passing in emergency lanes.
Penalties for Traffic Violations
How long a conviction stays on your record depends on the severity of the violation. If you are found guilty, you could suffer revocation, suspension, disqualification, or cancellation of your driving privileges from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration – the state agency that regulates drivers. The MVA can apply demerit points to your driving record for traffic violations. The amount of points assessed and how long they remain on your record depends on the severity of the offense. Some violations are considered serious enough that the MVA can revoke or suspend your driver’s license the moment you are charged, before you even have a chance to appear in court to defend yourself. Demerit points are a very serious matter. For example, getting a ticket for driving at an excessive speed can cause you to receive five points on your driver’s license. If you accumulate too many points on your license you may possibly lose your driving privileges.
You may also experience repercussions from your motor vehicle insurance company if you are convicted of a traffic offense. Insurance companies could hike up your rates or even drop their coverage of you by branding you as a habitual offender.
An Anne Arundel Traffic Lawyer Can Help
By paying the fine for a traffic ticket, you are automatically pleading guilty to your charge, and will suffer the consequences. Consulting with a skilled defense attorney before making that decision will give you the opportunity to explore alternate options regarding the charge. An attorney can also assist you if you are required to appear in court for the traffic violation.
Maryland defense attorney Seth Okin has years of experience handling criminal matters, including various traffic violations. He will fight passionately to protect you from the potential negative consequences associated with a conviction so that you can move on with your life. Contact his law office today to speak with a seasoned defense lawyer who can help defend you against traffic violation charges.