If you have been charged with a traffic offence, you may be wondering whether or not you need a traffic lawyer. Traffic lawyers are attorneys who specialize in traffic law. They can help you to understand the charges against you and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced sentence or dismissal of the charges.
In some cases, they may also be able to get your driver's license reinstated. Hiring a traffic lawyer is critical to consult and protect your rights if you face serious traffic charges, such as a DUI.
Things to Consider When Hiring a Traffic Lawyer
When you get a traffic ticket, paying the fine can be easy and moving on. But if you have the means, hiring a traffic lawyer may be worth your while. Traffic lawyers specialize in helping their clients fight traffic tickets and other driving-related offences.
Here are 8 things to consider when hiring a traffic lawyer:
1. Experience
When it comes to traffic law, experience is everything. A lawyer who has been practising for years will have a deep understanding of the law and anticipate a case's likely outcome. They will also be able to navigate the legal system easily, ensuring their clients get the best possible result.
On the other hand, a lawyer new to traffic law may not have the same level of understanding and could potentially miss critical points that could make a difference in the outcome of a case.
As such, it is always worth checking how long a traffic lawyer has been practising before choosing one to represent you.
2. Success Rate
When it comes to traffic tickets and other driving-related offences, the success rate of traffic lawyers varies. In some cases, the lawyer may be able to have the charges ultimately dismissed. In other cases, the lawyer may be able to get the charges reduced or have them deferred so that the person does not end up with a criminal record.
Ultimately, the traffic lawyer's success rate depends on the specific case and the jurisdiction in which it is being tried. However, traffic lawyers typically fight traffic tickets and other driving-related offences.
3. Lawyer's Fee
The traffic lawyer's fee is typically a percentage of the fine that is imposed by the court. For example, if the traffic lawyer can get the fine reduced from $500 to $250, the lawyer may charge 25% of the $250, or $62.50.
In some cases, the traffic lawyer may charge a flat fee regardless of the fine. For example, the traffic lawyer may charge a flat fee of $100 for his or her services. Generally, the fee varies depending on the case and the agreement between the lawyer and the client.
4. Knowledge of Law
When a traffic lawyer is familiar with the traffic laws in your state, it allows them to navigate the legal system and get the best possible outcome for your case.
A traffic lawyer can help you file a claim against the other driver if you have been involved in a traffic accident. If you are charged with a traffic offence, on the other hand, traffic lawyers can also help you negotiate a plea bargain.
5. Ability to Communicate with the Court
An experienced traffic lawyer will know how to effectively communicate with the court on your behalf. They can present your case in a way that is persuasive and convincing.
6. Accessibility
You want to be sure that the lawyer is accessible and responsive to your needs. Unfortunately, many lawyers are not accessible and do not respond to their client's needs promptly. This can be frustrating and can cause you to miss important deadlines.
7. Willingness to Go to Trial
Any traffic lawyer worth their salt will be more than willing to take your case to trial if necessary. This is because they understand that sometimes the only way to get a favourable outcome is by going to court. Traffic lawyers reluctant to go to trial may not have the experience or confidence needed to get you the best possible result.
If your traffic lawyer seems hesitant to go to trial, you may consider finding another attorney more prepared to fight for your rights in court.
8. Research Skills
Traffic lawyers represent clients charged with traffic violations, such as speeding, DUI Offence or hit and run. They represent clients who have been involved in traffic accidents.
Traffic lawyers must be skilled in researching the law to effectively represent their clients. They must be able to find relevant case law and statutes. They should also understand and apply these legal authorities to the facts of their client's case.
If you have been charged with a traffic offence, contact Smith Criminal Law today to discuss your case!
