Philadelphia Traffic Ticket Attorney
Traffic Tickets for Roadway Offenses
All too often, the Philadelphia criminal defense lawyers at our firm hear of people who unknowning pay the required fine of their traffic ticket, rather than contest the citation in court. When you pay for a ticket, you are also pleading guilty to the offense. A conviction for a traffic ticket can not only increase your insurance rates but also lead to the suspension of your license. This includes tickets such as:
- Speeding
- DUI
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Running a red light
- Reckless driving
- Failure to stop
Under Pennsylvania state law, a driving record accumulates points with each traffic ticket incurred. After six points, you will be required to take a written examination to prevent the loss of your driving privileges. Two points will be deduced from your record when you pass the test. You should consult with a criminal defense attorney from The Benari Law Group if you received a traffic citation. We can help you find out more about how the point system works and how to dispute your ticket in court. Lawyers at our firm are dedicated professionals who will work hard to keep your driving record clean.
Explainting the Point System
Pennsylvania has a point system, with each traffic offense receiving points ranging from two to five. One you receive six points on your record, your license could be suspended. The points you receive depend upon your moving violation:
- Exceeding the speed limit by 31 mph: 5 points
- Failure to stop at a railroad crossing: 4 points
- Careless driving: 3 points
- Illegal U-turn: 3 points
- Failure to stop for a red light: 3 points
Not only are fines inconvenient, if you receive too many points on your record, your insurance premium will be increased. Drastic consequences that are not uncommon include your insurance company dropping you or having your driver's license suspended as a result of too many points on your record.
Our Philadelphia Criminal Attorneys Can Fight Your Ticket
What does fighting your ticket mean for you?
- You will not be able to plead outright to lesser charges
- You will have an attorney represent you
- You will present evidence, testimony and sometimes witnesses
- The officer who pulled you over will present his case too
- Your attorney will be able to cross-examine the officer
If you plan to plead not guilty, you need to inform the court beforehand and then post collateral. If you can't afford to post collateral, you can request a waiver of reduction. In order to have a fighting chance for success, it is crucial you hire a qualified attorney who has a thorough understanding of Pennsylvania's traffic laws. Even if you are not successful in traffic court, we can help you file an appeal with the Court of Common Pleas.
Because there are only two ways to remove points from your record in Pennsylvania (pass a written PennDOT ordered exam or an on-road exam) or stay violation free for 12 months and it only takes six points before your license is in jeopardy, it is often worth it to fight your traffic ticket!
When fighting a traffic ticket, representation by a reliable lawyer can have a positive impact on the outcome of your case. There are many ticket defenses available and your attorney can explain them so that you can make an informed decision regarding your driving record. If you do not pay your fine or appear in court, a judge can issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This can escalate your legal problems and may result in serious penalties including jail time and impound of your vehicle. The goal of our firm when we defend criminal cases is the best possible outcome for our clients. Let us help you with your traffic ticket defense so you can protect your driving record. Contact our office today if you have been cited for a traffic violation and find out how to avoid a conviction!