Traffic Lawyers in Greenville, North Carolina

If you find yourself facing charges for traffic violations in the state of North Carolina, the potential impact on your driving privileges, insurance rates, and finances can be significant. At The Graham, Nuckolls, Conner Law Firm, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to representing your interests throughout the legal process in order to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Potential Consequences of Traffic Violations

Traffic violations encompass a wide range of offenses, including speeding, DUI/DWI, reckless driving, and failure to comply with child restraint laws. The severity of the offense and other mitigating factors play a critical role in determining the potential penalties you may face. When it comes to traffic violations, the most common penalties are:

Monetary Penalties: Depending on the nature and severity of the traffic violation, you may be subjected to substantial fines. Some offenses, like drunk driving, carry a fine of up to $10,000. Even relatively small fines can add up after factoring in court costs, license reinstatement fees, and other financial penalties associated with a conviction.

License Suspension and Defensive Driving Classes: In certain cases, you may be required to surrender your driver’s license for a specific period and attend defensive driving classes as part of your sentence. This means you won’t be legally allowed to drive until you have fulfilled the terms of your sentence. In cases involving multiple severe offenses, your license may be permanently revoked.

Potential Incarceration: For severe traffic violations, such as DUI/DWI or reckless driving, may carry the possibility of jail time. It’s crucial to understand the potential consequences of these offenses. The determination to minimize the likelihood of incarceration involves a careful examination of the evidence and utilizing legal strategies to protect your rights.

The specific penalty for traffic violations depends on a number of factors, including the nature and severity of the offense, your prior driving record, any aggravating or mitigating circumstances, and the discretion of the court.

If you are facing traffic violations in North Carolina, do not face the legal system alone. Let our skilled legal team at The Graham, Nuckolls, Conner Law Firm, fight for your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards protecting your future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do points stay on my driving record?

For most traffic violations in North Carolina, points stay on your record for three years after the date of your conviction. If you accumulate 12 or more points within a three-year period, your license may be suspended.

If you’ve accumulated 4 or more points on your license, you can enroll in a DMV-approved driver’s course to reduce the number of points on your license.

What happens if I fail to appear in court for a traffic violation?

If you fail to appear in court for a traffic violation in North Carolina, it can lead to various consequences. These consequences may include:

1. Issuance of a Failure to Appear (FTA) charge: The court may issue an additional charge against you called “Failure to Appear.” This charge carries its own penalties and can further complicate your legal situation.

2. Bench warrant issuance: The court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This means that if you come into contact with law enforcement in the future, such as during a routine traffic stop, you may be arrested and taken into custody.

3. License suspension: The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may be notified about your failure to appear. As a result, they may suspend your driver’s license, which can lead to further complications and additional fees to reinstate your license.

4. Increased fines and penalties: Failing to appear in court can result in increased fines and penalties for the original traffic violation. Additionally, the court may impose additional fines and costs related to your failure to appear.

It’s crucial to take a failure to appear seriously and address the issue promptly. If you have missed a court date, it is advisable to consult with an experienced traffic violations attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help minimize the potential consequences.

Can I contest a traffic violation if I believe I was wrongly cited?

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully cited for a traffic violation, you can fight the charge in court. Some circumstances where you might have a stronger chance of winning your case include:

1. Errors or inconsistencies on the citation: If there are mistakes or discrepancies in the citation, such as incorrect information about your vehicle or the circumstances of the violation, it can weaken the prosecution’s case against you.

2. Faulty equipment or improper calibration: If the ticket was issued based on the readings of radar, laser, or other speed measuring devices, you may challenge the accuracy and calibration of the equipment. You can question whether the device was properly maintained and operated by the officer.

3. Lack of evidence: If the prosecution fails to provide sufficient evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, you may have grounds to contest the violation. This could include inadequate witness testimony, missing or unreliable evidence, or procedural errors.

4. Violation of your rights: If your constitutional rights were violated during the traffic stop, such as an unlawful search or seizure, you can challenge the validity of the citation.

5. Necessity defense: In certain situations, you may have a valid defense if you can demonstrate that you committed the traffic violation out of necessity to avoid harm or injury. This defense often applies in emergency situations or cases where following the traffic laws would have caused greater danger.

It’s important to consult with an experienced traffic violations attorney who can evaluate the specific details of your case and advise you on the best course of action. Our team can help assess the strength of your defense, gather evidence, and guide you through the legal process to maximize your chances of contesting and potentially winning your traffic violation case.

Is it worth fighting a traffic ticket in court?

Yes, it can be worth fighting a traffic ticket in court. Contesting a traffic violation gives you the opportunity to challenge the charges against you and potentially mitigate or dismiss the penalties associated with the ticket. By presenting a strong defense, you may be able to avoid fines, license points, increased insurance premiums, and other consequences that can arise from a conviction. However, the decision to fight a traffic ticket should be based on the specific circumstances of your case, such as the evidence against you, potential defenses, and the potential costs involved. It’s advisable to consult with an experienced traffic attorney who can evaluate your case and provide personalized guidance on whether fighting the ticket is in your best interest.

Can I get my driver’s license reinstated after a suspension or revocation?

When your license is suspended or revoked, you will need to meet specific terms in order to be eligible for license reinstatement. These terms typically include serving the suspension period, resolving any outstanding fines or fees, completing any required driver improvement courses or programs, and providing necessary documentation to the relevant authorities. Once these terms have been fulfilled, you will need to apply for a new license with the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.

Resources

North Carolina Department of Transportation: License Suspension

North Carolina General Assembly: Motor Vehicles

North Carolina Judicial Branch: Traffic Violations

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