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 Many people don't realize that traffic citations can
have more severe implications than points on their
driver's license and fines. Even one ticket can result
in significantly higher insurance premiums. Depending
upon the charge, you may also face jail, traffic school,
and license suspension. The good news is that if you
have a clean driving record and have just received a
ticket, you may be able to save your driving record and
avoid higher insurance rates by fighting the ticket. We
have successfully helped clients contest their traffic
tickets, and experience has taught me that the best plea
arrangements are reached in cases where people have
clean driving records. In these cases, we have often been
able negotiate a deal with the prosecutor that results
in zero points and no report of the ticket being sent to
the Michigan Secretary of State. By investing your time
and retaining an experienced attorney to contest your
traffic ticket, you may save your permanent driving
record and avoid skyrocketing insurance premiums.
An estimated 34 million people nationwide receive traffic citations each year, yet only 4% - 10% of all tickets are contested.
Some basic speeding tickets result in four
points on your driving record. Careless driving is a
three point offense and reckless driving brings six
points and an automatic suspension with possible jail
time. For out of state drivers, the Michigan Secretary
of State will share any conviction records with their
home state. Driving with a suspended license is a
serious misdemeanor offense and punishable by jail time,
an additional six points and added suspension time to
your license. Many courts routinely require jail as part
of a sentence for drivers with prior convictions. This
is a politically charged topic, and no judge is happy
with the prospects of a local news station appearing in
their courtroom to question the reasons that a chronic,
suspended driver was let off easy if that driver just
injured someone in an accident. If you have been charged
with driving while license suspended or restricted,
you
need an experienced attorney to help prepare and present
your case before court. Our ability to help clients
avoid jail is invaluable.
Did you know that fighting a ticket does not always
require a court hearing?
We have
been representing truck drivers and other driving
professionals for years. We know the value and
importance of keeping a clean record. Our understanding
of the court system and rapport with the prosecutors,
judges and police officers helps to pave the way for
plea arrangements. In cases where there is no
alternative but to fight, we are prepared to accept the
challenge and fight the case from every angle. However,
if we evaluate your case and determine there is little
opportunity to win, we will be honest with you and
explain all of the options available.
Remember, if you
intend to fight a traffic ticket you need to respond
immediately. Failure to respond and demand a hearing
within the specified time, usually ten days, will result
in a default against you and your loss of the right to
fight. Don't Delay!
Some of the common traffic
violations and their penalties are listed
here.
Do not hesitate to
contact the office of Paul J. Tafelski
at 248-451-2200 or email us at
ptafelski@michigandefenselaw.com.
Traffic
Matters Resources
For the fastest response at night and on weekends please
email me. I check my Blackberry frequently and will
respond as soon as I see your message. |
