Traffic Offense Lawyers in Pikesville, MD Assisting Individuals With All Types of Traffic Violations
In Maryland, traffic offenses, even those that may seem minor such as speeding, running a red light, or improper lane change, can end up being expensive due to the fines that may be levied against you.
DUI/ DWI, driving while license suspended, and reckless driving charges can be even more expensive and are also criminal charges that could potentially lead to jail time, steep fines, and possible suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
Regardless of the traffic citation that you may have received, you need a qualified traffic offenses lawyer who fully understands Maryland traffic laws and can determine the best legal strategy to defend your case.
Contact the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A., by calling (410) 484-0400 and scheduling a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
Can You Go to Jail For Traffic Violations in Maryland?
Under the rules of Maryland State law, there are two kinds of traffic offenses: those that are considered to be payable and those labeled as “must appear”.
Payable offenses are the least serious of Maryland traffic violations. They include running a stop sign, improper lane changes, and speeding tickets. In these types of infractions, an individual may plead guilty and pay the fine and is not required to appear in court. Traffic tickets that are termed “payable” are not punishable by jail time.
“Must appear” offenses are traffic violations that are also considered to be criminal in nature and, as such, can be punishable by jail time if convicted. Examples of such traffic violations include DUI/DWI, reckless driving, fleeing to elude, or driving while your license is suspended. You are not allowed to simply pay a fine to resolve these types of traffic offenses. Just as with any other criminal offense, you are required to appear in court and answer the charges.
No matter what type of traffic violation you may be charged with, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can assist you. Even speeding tickets, which are considered to be payable, can have lasting consequences, such as points assigned to your license or increased insurance premiums. Because more serious traffic offense convictions could cause you to spend time in jail, you need an attorney to help protect your future. Contact our attorneys for a free consultation to review your case.
What Happens If I Just Ignore a Payable Traffic Ticket in Maryland?
Failing to pay a traffic ticket or appear in court in Maryland will give the District Court just cause to notify the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). The MVA will then take action by notifying you by mail that your driver’s license will be suspended unless you meet the necessary requirements by the suspension date that is included on the notice.
If for some reason, you feel that you cannot afford to pay the ticket, you can make an arrangement to pay your fines through regular monthly payments rather than in a lump sum. Once this agreement has been approved, The MVA cannot suspend or revoke any of your driving privileges for the traffic violations that have been outlined in the agreement.
In order to qualify for the monthly payment plan, the following criteria must be met:
- You must owe at least $150 in tickets.
- You must agree to make regular monthly payments of 10% of the ticket(s).
- You agree to immediately notify the clerk of any change of address during the term of this agreement.
If you have previously ignored a payable traffic ticket and have had your license suspended or revoked, it is imperative that you speak with a traffic offense attorney who can aid you in possibly having your driver’s license reinstated.
How Can A Traffic Offense Lawyer Help Me in Maryland?
Hiring a traffic offenses lawyer is in your best interest no matter what type of violation you have received. Even speeding tickets can negatively affect you, as they will remain on your record for two years. This is especially problematic if your employment involves driving for a living. Many employers, especially those who self-insure, are hesitant to employ those who have accumulated speeding tickets in their driving history.
No matter what your traffic violation is, our attorneys are committed to fighting for your legal rights and will work to negotiate an outcome that is favorable to you. Contact the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A., by calling (410) 484-0400 to schedule a free initial consultation with a member of our legal team.