If you’ve been issued a traffic ticket in DC, you should consider contacting an experienced traffic attorney. This is because traffic offenses can result in points on your driver’s license and insurance rates could increase.
A recent ruling by the DC Court of Appeals has made it easier to dispute traffic tickets. Specifically, it will now be easier to argue that a speed limit sign was not properly posted and should be dismissed.
Infractions
When you receive a traffic ticket in DC, it can seem like an unfair and confusing process. However, a qualified attorney who understands the traffic laws and penalties in DC can be of great help to you.
The District of Columbia follows a point system to track moving violations, which can lead to a license suspension or revocation, and the addition of points to your driving record. A conviction of a traffic violation could also impact your job and even your career.
Many different moving violations, including speeding, running a red light and driving while impaired, can result in a license suspension or revocation. In addition, if you receive multiple violations within a short period of time, you may have to pay a higher fine and be subject to additional fees in DC traffic court.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are crimes that can be punished by a fine or jail time. They are different from felonies, which can be punished by up to one year in prison.
DC traffic court deals with both infractions and misdemeanors, and it is important to hire a lawyer if you are facing any type of traffic charges. An experienced attorney can explain the penalties that you could face and help you understand how to avoid them.
In some cases, a DC traffic lawyer can get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether. They can also help you keep a clean driving record.
DC also has a diversion program for misdemeanors and traffic offenses that may divert the case from a trial calendar. This can be a great way to reduce the punishment and get your case resolved without having to go through the lengthy judicial process.
Felonies
DC traffic court cases are handled in a variety of ways depending on the nature of the offense. For example, moving violations such as speeding and parking tickets are handled in the DC DMV while other types of criminal traffic misdemeanors and felonies are resolved in the DC Superior Court.
Regardless of the type of criminal charge you face, it is important to have an experienced attorney representing you from start to finish. That includes a thorough investigation of the evidence against you, negotiations with the prosecutor, and possible motions to exclude illegally obtained evidence.
Felonies are the most serious of all crimes, and they carry severe penalties. They can include long-lasting consequences, such as incarceration and loss of driving privileges. In addition, a felony on your record can make it difficult to find work or qualify for government benefits. Contact an experienced DC criminal defense lawyer today to learn more about your rights and legal options.
Points
If a person is convicted of a DC traffic violation, they will accrue points on their license. These points can have serious consequences for insurance rates, or they can even lead to a license suspension.
When a person receives a DC traffic ticket, they should fight it right away by contesting the ticket in court. A DC traffic lawyer could help them by requesting an administrative hearing, appearing on their behalf, and advocating for the best possible result.
A DC traffic lawyer may also be able to get the DC traffic ticket dismissed or reduce the fine. They can do this by requesting that the hearing examiner waive all or part of the DC traffic points.
Another way to avoid points is to complete a defensive driving course in DC. This can be done online and will remove points from an individual’s DC driver’s record. However, individuals must get approval by a hearing examiner before completing the course.