Winston Salem Traffic Tickets Lawyer

Winston Salem Traffic Tickets Attorney

A traffic ticket may seem like just a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to serious consequences like fines, license points, insurance hikes, and even a suspended license. Whether you are ticketed for speeding, reckless driving, running a red light, or driving without insurance, fighting it can pay off. At The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, our Winston-Salem traffic ticket lawyer is on your side.

We know North Carolina’s traffic laws and can work to reduce the effects on your driving record. Through negotiation, we achieve lower charges while representing you in court, helping you save time and money while reducing your stress. Don’t just pay the ticket until you know your options.

Why Hire The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith for Your Traffic Ticket Defense

Paying a North Carolina traffic ticket might be the easiest course of action, but it also means you are pleading guilty to the offense and having points added to your driving record. When you hire a traffic ticket lawyer from The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, we handle traffic tickets and citations smartly.

Our Winston-Salem traffic ticket lawyer analyzes your case to find possible reductions or dismissals to maintain your clean driving record. This includes everything from speeding and reckless driving tickets to license and registration offenses. Responsive communication, honest representation, and experience in court can help reduce the long-term consequences so you can get back to your life.

Common Traffic Violations in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem drivers receive tickets for various offenses. These tickets carry more severe implications than many people are aware of. From speeding tickets to running red lights and stop signs, to reckless driving, charges can pile up quickly. Other common violations in Winston-Salem include driving without insurance, having expired registration, and failing to yield.

Aggressive driving or driving at high rates of speed can even land you with suspended licenses or criminal charges. All these tickets add points to your record. The accumulation of points could get you higher insurance rates or even suspended driving privileges.

It’s essential to understand what you’re up against and how to effectively counter it. We can help you fight these charges and keep you from suffering long-term consequences if possible.

What Happens if You Ignore a Traffic Ticket in North Carolina?

Ignoring a traffic ticket in North Carolina leads to more serious consequences beyond a late fee. You may also be issued a Failure to Appear (FTA), which carries additional fines, the potential for a suspended license, and even a warrant for your arrest in some cases.

The DMV could also flag your license, making it difficult or impossible to renew or reinstate. What started as a minor violation can turn into a major headache with legal consequences. Consult with a lawyer now or hire one to represent you in fighting the ticket.

Can You Get a Traffic Ticket Dismissed or Reduced in North Carolina?

Most traffic tickets in North Carolina can be dismissed or reduced. First offenders or those who commit relatively minor infractions may be eligible for reduction to a lesser speed, prayer for judgment continued (PJC), or dismissal by attending driving school. Occasionally, the issue can be resolved by simply providing proof of insurance or registration.

Negotiation on behalf of a client can often result in a lesser plea if the attorney first inquires about court policies and meets directly with the prosecutor. An attorney can ensure that your side of the story is heard and possibly help you avoid trial and minimize the potential negative consequences with the least effect on your driving record and auto insurance.

FAQs

Can I Fight a Traffic Ticket in Winston-Salem Without Going to Court?

In Winston-Salem, you have the option to handle your case without personal court appearances. Your attorney can often attend court proceedings in your place when dealing with traffic tickets. Speeding violations and expired registration tickets are typical examples of non-criminal infractions.

A lawyer can help you avoid court appearances and achieve more favorable results. By hiring a lawyer, you can potentially reduce or dismiss your charges without needing to take time off from your work.

Will a Traffic Ticket Affect My Insurance Rates?

Insurance companies look at your driving record to determine the risk of insuring you. A traffic ticket is often all it takes to increase your insurance rates. A conviction for a traffic violation, even a single one, can mean higher premiums.

For example, under North Carolina’s Safe Driver Incentive Plan, any speeding conviction resulting in traveling 10 mph over the speed limit leads to a 55% increase in insurance rates.

Can a Lawyer Get My Traffic Ticket Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes, a lawyer may be able to get your traffic ticket reduced or dismissed. Alternatives to tickets in North Carolina may include a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC), driving school, or speed reductions, particularly in first-offense or minor cases. A proficient traffic lawyer can negotiate with the DA and identify legal defenses to help clients avoid license points or higher premiums.

What Is a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC)

A Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) is a special option in North Carolina that permits the court not to enter a conviction against you even though you plead guilty. A PJC can be used to avoid license points and insurance increases for certain traffic violations. Keep in mind, you can only use it once every three years for insurance purposes per household. It’s a great option, but individuals must use it wisely.

Contact a Winston-Salem Traffic Tickets Attorney

Although many people view a traffic ticket as a minor issue, it can have long-term effects that persist for several years. It can affect your license, insurance, and wallet. At LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, our Winston-Salem traffic ticket lawyer can help you fight back, avoid unnecessary points, and keep your driving record clean.

If you’re facing a speeding ticket or a more serious citation, don’t go it alone. Hire a traffic tickets lawyer and let us fight for you. Book a consultation today.