5 Reasons to Hire a Lawyer to Fight a Speeding Ticket

Many people assume that traffic tickets are minor nuisances they can handle on their own. The reality is far different. A speeding ticket can have dramatically negative consequences and admitting guilt might end up costing you more money than mounting an aggressive defense.

At Bain Sheldon, our traffic violation lawyers in Virginia have helped countless drivers avoid the expense and hassle that comes with speeding tickets. We provide 5 reasons you should contact us rather than admit guilt for a speeding charge.

You Are Facing a Reckless Driving Charge

Under Virginia Code § 46.2-862, a person can be charged with reckless driving if they were caught going 20 miles per hour above the posted speed limit, or driving 85 miles per hour. This is a misdemeanor offense that carries the possibility of jail, fines, and other penalties. A misdemeanor is also a permanent criminal record, which means that you will need to disclose it any time you apply for a job or try to rent an apartment.

There is no reason to immediately admit guilt for a reckless driving charge. Instead, let a Virginia traffic violation attorney review the relevant information and decide whether you have a defense.

A Ticket Can Cost You More—A Lot More

When you admit guilt for speeding, you end up paying much more than just the fine. Many people will also see their insurance premiums balloon for the next three years, often paying thousands of dollars more in total. According to insurance.com, a regular speeding ticket can result in a 22% bump in premiums. A ticket for reckless driving can see an even larger increase.

You might also have too many demerit points and could be on the verge of losing your driver’s license. Factor in the cost of paying for a taxi and possibly losing your job. Needless to say, losing your license for even a few months can be a financial disaster for a family.

By comparison, the cost of an attorney is reasonable. This does not mean you need a lawyer in every case, but you should check to see if the facts of your case warrant a lawyer’s help.

A Lawyer Can Get the Best Deal Possible

If you are facing a reckless driving charge or other misdemeanor, it might be possible to plead down to a traffic citation. However, few people have the skills or knowledge to do this effectively. Don’t expect the government to help, either. Instead, they might scare you into believing that you will face the maximum penalties.

You Live in a Different State

If you don’t live in Virginia, then it can be a hassle to drive back and forth to appear in court, sometimes multiple times. Factor in the cost of gas, missed work, childcare expenses, etc. Fortunately, a lawyer can appear on your behalf in most cases, which means you do not have to worry about getting back to Virginia. This peace of mind is priceless.

A Judge Might Take You More Seriously

Judges hear all kinds of stories from individuals professing their innocence.  Hiring a lawyer can help ensure that your side of the story gets conveyed in an appropriate and effective manner as lawyers are able to cite not only the specifics of your case, but also case law to support your claim.  Of course, hiring an attorney does not mean that a Judge will automatically accept your version of events.

Contact a Virginia Traffic Ticket Attorney Today

Bain Sheldon can review your case in a free consultation and help you decide whether to go ahead and hire our services. We bring years of experience fighting traffic violations and will happily review your case for free.  We represent clients throughout Central Virginia, including in Petersburg, Glen Allen, Mechanicsville, Henrico, Chesterfield, Hanover, Goochland, New Kent, Dinwiddie, Hopewell, Colonial Heights, Powhatan, Prince George and Ashland.