Traffic Crimes Law Office in Andover, MA
Some people wrongly assume that traffic crimes are “minor” offenses that they can make disappear by paying a fine. In reality, many traffic offenses carry stiff penalties. A person charged with a traffic offense could face time in jail, heavy fines, and even a license suspension.
Before admitting guilt, contact a traffic crime attorney today. Many of our clients have legitimate defenses to raise to these charges, but they need seasoned legal help.
Violations We Defend
Our experienced attorneys can help with all types of traffic offenses. Numerous, complex traffic laws exist, and there are countless violations a person can be charged with.
Generally, traffic offenses are infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies. Infractions are not criminal, but misdemeanors and felonies can lead to a criminal record and time in jail, among other penalties.
Traffic Infractions
Infractions are not crimes. However, they can still cause headaches, such as increased insurance costs and, depending on a driver’s history, a license suspension. Most traffic tickets for things like speeding and parking violations are infractions.
You should have a hearing date printed on your ticket, and you can fight the charges by showing up and presenting evidence. Many people choose not to fight but instead pay the fine.
Felony Traffic Crimes
Felonies are the most serious crimes. A felony conviction can send a defendant to state prison for more than a year. Defendants also pay steep fines and lose their licenses. The worst part of a felony conviction is losing important civil rights, such as the right to serve on a jury or own a firearm.
Some of the more common felonies are:
- DUI
- Hit and run
- Reckless driving
- Vehicular manslaughter
Defending a Traffic Crime
A good Andover defense lawyer can make all the difference in your case. For example, if you were charged with a misdemeanor, it is sometimes possible to get the charge reduced to an infraction. This means you pay a fine and accept the points, but you critically avoid a criminal record.
If you were charged with a felony, a good lawyer can sometimes get it reduced to a misdemeanor. A person faces lighter penalties as a result.
Other defenses depend on the charge. For example, we can defend a DUI by arguing that the officer did not have legal grounds to stop you, or that you were not intoxicated. Whether you took a chemical test will play a big role in what we can argue.
Sometimes, police stop the wrong car, especially when traffic is busy. Our lawyers can always argue that our clients were not the ones who committed the offense.
Speak with Our Andover Traffic Crimes Lawyer Today
Too many people fight traffic crimes along. Instead, you should hire a seasoned attorney to review whether you have legitimate grounds to fight. Call our firm today to schedule a free consultation.