Even a simple traffic ticket can ruin someone’s day and put a significant dent in their budget. A major violation can carry severe penalties, and most people aren’t equipped to deal with the process. However, a local traffic lawyer in Orange, VA can fight on a client’s behalf and recommend the appropriate course of action. In this brief guide, drivers will learn why it’s important to hire a traffic attorney.
It Saves Time
When a client hires an attorney immediately after receiving a traffic citation, they can greatly simplify the process. Local attorneys can work on a client’s behalf and save them time that would otherwise be spent in court. As most people know, the legal process moves slowly at times, and a self-representing driver will usually be put near the back of the queue. That’s enough of a reason for a driver to have legal representation when fighting a traffic ticket.
Local Attorneys Know Judges and Prosecutors
Attorneys have long-standing relationships with the local legal community. Although the courtroom relationship can be adversarial, they often become friends outside of court. Over the years, an attorney will familiarize with those who handle local traffic cases, as this puts them in a better position to reduce or eliminate a client’s charges.
Police and Prosecutors Don’t Negotiate with Defendants
In most cases, police only give drivers the option to reduce their fines by pleading guilty. While this can help, it can still leave a driver with higher insurance premiums and points on their license. A traffic lawyer in Orange, VA can often negotiate a better deal than that offered by the police and the prosecution.
Consequences Could Be More Severe Than Expected
A first DUI in Virginia can come with a license suspension of one year, and other offenses carry harsh penalties as well. However, local attorneys are prepared for the worst-case scenario, and they can often negotiate shorter sentences and less harsh punishments for first offenders.
While many believe a traffic ticket is a relatively minor matter, the truth is that they can have lasting effects on a driver’s life. When a person hires an attorney with us, they’re assured of getting the best possible representation for all traffic matters.
