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You might feel inclined to pay a speeding ticket to wrap things up quickly, but have you thought about contesting it instead? Contesting a ticket has numerous benefits, and with the guidance of an experienced traffic law attorney, you can present a formidable defense in a court of law. Rather than succumbing to the frustration of receiving a speeding citation, take a moment to consult with a qualified attorney before deciding to pay the fine.
Understanding the Penalties of Speeding Tickets in California
Base Fines and Additional Costs
In California, the minimum fine for speeding starts at just $35. However, depending on various factors such as the severity of the infraction, previous traffic violations, and applicable fees, the total costs can escalate dramatically. If you’re caught speeding in a construction zone or safety zone, expect additional fines on top of the standard penalty.
Speeding Over 100 mph and Its Consequences
If your speed falls between 100 miles per hour or below while exceeding the limit, you will likely face a base fine ranging from $35 to $100. For speeds that exceed 100 miles per hour, the repercussions grow significantly, as you could be looking at fines between $500 and $1,000, potential suspension of your driver’s license, and even severe legal penalties.
The Impact of Previous Traffic Violations
Having previous traffic violations can complicate matters further. Even a minor speeding ticket could, in such cases, jeopardize your driving privileges and lead to license suspension.
Is Contesting Your Speeding Ticket a Viable Option?
Understanding the Infraction
While a speeding ticket is usually designated as an infraction rather than a misdemeanor, contesting it can make a significant positive impact on your driving record and your license status. Paying the ticket is often seen as an admission of guilt by the state.
The Advantages of Challenging the Ticket
By choosing to hire a traffic law attorney and contest your ticket in court, you might dramatically increase your chances of having the charges dismissed. This approach can translate into substantial savings, including avoiding elevated insurance premiums that often follow a speeding ticket.
Effective Strategies for Contesting a Speeding Ticket
Consult with an Attorney for Tailored Defense Strategies
Once you’ve made the decision to contest your speeding ticket, collaborating with a skilled attorney can provide you with effective defense strategies tailored to your situation. Your approach may range from requesting additional documentation to rescheduling hearings.
Leverage Court Hearings
A proficient defense lawyer might leverage scheduling to your advantage. For instance, if the officer who issued your ticket fails to appear at the court hearing—a possibility given their busy schedules—you may secure a dismissal of the charges against you.
The Burden of Proof
If you plead not guilty, the prosecution carries the burden of proof, obligated to demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the speeding infraction.
Traffic School as a Viable Option
Another potential avenue is attending traffic school, a strategy that could prevent the traffic citation from appearing on your record. Keep in mind, however, that this option requires court approval.
Consult with a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney
Expertise at Your Service
Grasping the complexities of traffic law and gathering acceptable evidence are paramount in successfully contesting a speeding ticket in California. At the Law Offices of Nabiel C. Ahmed, located in Oakland, we have over a decade of experience effectively defending clients against traffic violation accusations, including speeding citations.
Personalized Consultation
We encourage you to reach out to us promptly upon receiving your ticket. This proactive approach enables us to review your unique circumstances and identify suitable defense strategies. Attorney Nabiel Ahmed is dedicated to securing a dismissal of the charges while exploring alternative penalties that may help mitigate points from appearing on your record.
Get in Touch Today
Are you considering contesting a speeding ticket in Oakland or the East Bay area? Don’t hesitate to call the Law Offices of Nabiel C. Ahmed at 510-576-5544 or complete our online form to schedule your consultation today.
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