Getting a traffic ticket is always stressful, and every driver wants to resolve the matter as quickly as possible. They may be tempted to either plead guilty or represent themselves, foregoing legal counsel either way. However, there are good reasons to speak with a lawyer.
At The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers, part of our job is to help drivers understand how our firm can handle their legal matters. Here we take a look at the top four signs that you need to hire a New York traffic ticket attorney and how it can affect the outcome of your case.
You’re Innocent of the Charges
If you know that you did not commit the traffic infraction for which you were ticketed, it’s easy to think about handling the matter on your own. After all, you’re innocent; all you need to do is clearly explain the truth. But this may not be as simple as you assume.
It’s one thing to know you are innocent, but another to defend your innocence in court. Even though the burden of proof rests with the state, the court will give a great deal of deference to the police. However, an attorney can explore ways to contest the ticket, including:
- Questioning the officer’s judgment: A knowledgeable lawyer looks for inconsistencies in officer testimony and ways they can call the officer’s judgment into question. Your lawyer can focus on contradictions, gaps in the story, and other shortcomings.
- Witness testimony: If there are any third-party witnesses who can testify on your behalf, they will prove valuable to your case. Your lawyer will understand what questions to ask them and how to develop their testimony in your favor.
- Challenging traffic equipment: New York law enforcement routinely relies on breathalyzers, radar guns, and other machines to do their jobs. These are prone to mistakes when not properly calibrated or maintained. Your lawyer will understand how to challenge this equipment.
You’re Facing Serious Charges
While some traffic tickets are relatively minor, others can lead to heavy fines, major insurance premium increases, and even jail time. You run the risk of these and other repercussions if you try to defend yourself in court without legal counsel.
Some of the most serious New York traffic tickets include those for:
- Evading law enforcement
- Driving on a suspended license
- Driving without insurance
- Extreme speeding
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- DUI or DWI-related charges
The prosecutors who will try to have you convicted are well aware of what they must prove to win. They also understand criminal procedure, which the judge will expect you to know if you represent yourself. Save yourself the hassle and hire an experienced traffic ticket lawyer.
You Have a CDL or Drive for Work
Losing your license, which is a possible consequence for many traffic tickets, is a serious inconvenience. But for CDL drivers and others who need a license for work, it can mean missed income. Conviction could therefore cost you serious sums of money and threaten your career.
The following professionals need to be particularly wary of how a traffic ticket can negatively impact their livelihood:
- Taxi drivers
- Ridesharing app drivers
- Commercial truck drivers (CDL)
- Ambulance drivers or paramedics
- Government employees
- Delivery drivers
CDL drivers can potentially have their licenses suspended for long periods of time, even permanently. An experienced New York traffic ticket lawyer will understand what is at stake and know how to fight back against the ticket.
Non-CDL drivers facing license suspension should still be concerned if their jobs require them to drive. An attorney can help them obtain a conditional license for purposes of working. But this is not a guarantee, which is why retaining legal counsel is strongly advised.
The Traffic Stop Was Illegal
Police cannot just pull over people for no reason and give them a ticket. They need reasonable suspicion to conduct a traffic stop, and need probable cause for arrests and full searches. Many ticketed drivers are unaware of these basic legal requirements.
They may also not realize that law enforcement may illegally seize evidence, mishandle evidence, and otherwise violate established criminal procedures. These rules are in place to protect drivers, including those who receive traffic tickets in New York.
It is possible that the officer who pulled you over violated these and other norms, which means you could get your ticket dismissed. However, having a knowledgeable attorney is important because your lawyer will know these rules and how they apply in your case.
The Advantage of Seasoned Legal Counsel
Hiring a traffic ticket lawyer improves your chances of obtaining the most beneficial result for your tickets. The right attorney will know how to challenge the prosecution’s case, make a good case on your behalf, and work to avoid the most serious consequences you face.
If you received a traffic ticket, find out how The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers can serve you. Reach out to us today to discuss your legal options.
