Wake County Traffic Ticket Lawyer
Experienced and Straightforward Legal Assistance to Resolve Your Ticket
There are several ways you can resolve your traffic ticket, depending on the outcome you’re looking for. An experienced traffic ticket lawyer can explore ways to reduce your ticket, argue for a dismissal, or otherwise help you circumvent the penalties if possible.
Attorney Lawrence J. Kissling III, PLLC has been practicing law for 33 years, and he focuses exclusively now on traffic tickets. Most tickets can be resolved quickly and efficiently, and Attorney Kissling will provide the straightforward answers you need to get out of your ticket and back in the driver’s seat.
Schedule a free initial consultation with Lawrence J. Kissling III, PLLC online to get started. Advocating for drivers in Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Wake Forest, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina.
How to Resolve Your Ticket in NC
Traffic tickets can be issued for a range of driving-related offenses, such as speeding, failing to stop at a stop sign, running a red light, and tailgating.
If you have received a traffic ticket, you can resolve the matter in a few different ways:
- Pay the ticket outside of court. For certain “waivable offenses” (below), you can choose to pay the ticket (which includes the fine and court costs). However, paying a ticket without going to court means you are pleading guilty to the charge, and you will incur all the penalties listed in the ticket. It will be more worthwhile to explore the below options instead.
- Ask the court for a reduction or dismissal. You and your attorney can go to trial to argue for a dismissal or reduction for less severe penalties. This is particularly useful for speeding tickets, as fines and insurance points are based on how much faster than the limit you were allegedly driving. So, if you could prove that you were driving not as fast as law enforcement claimed, you might be able to get a reduction of your ticket and incur fewer points on your driver’s license as well.
- Request a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC). This is harder to obtain, as only a judge can grant this to their discretion. However, if a judge does grant you a PJC, you will plead guilty to the ticket but will not receive the standard penalties of driver’s license points and insurance points.
Note that if you choose to pay your ticket without going to court, you “waive” your right to plead not guilty and contest your ticket. That is, you admit to the offense and will be treated as though you were declared guilty. Only some traffic violations are eligible to be waived (“waivable offenses”), including speeding violations and minor moving violations. Your ticket will also likely state whether your offense is waivable.
What Is Considered a Moving Violation?
A moving violation is a traffic offense that occurs while a vehicle is in motion. These violations typically involve actions or behaviors that are dangerous or unlawful while driving on the road.
Moving violations can result in traffic tickets, fines, points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and, in some cases, even license suspension.
Common examples of moving violations include:
- Speeding:
- Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
- Reckless Driving
- Following Too Closely (Tailgating)
- Failure to Yield
- Texting or Distracted Driving
- Driving Without Insurance
- Driving in a Carpool Lane Without Carpooling
- Driving Without a Valid License or with a Suspended License
- Running a School Bus Stop Arm
- Failure to Yield to Pedestrians
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI
The specific consequences for moving violations vary by jurisdiction and can depend on factors such as the severity of the violation, the driver's previous record, and local traffic laws.
Accumulating too many points on your driving record from moving violations can lead to license suspension or revocation, so it's essential to drive safely and follow traffic laws. If you receive a ticket for a moving violation, you may have the option to contest it in court or take defensive driving courses to reduce penalties in some cases.
Commonly Asked NC Traffic Questions
What are the potential consequences of pleading guilty to a traffic ticket in Wake County?
Pleading guilty to a traffic ticket in Wake County, NC, by paying the fine without going to court, can result in various penalties. These include the full fine and court costs, as well as points on your driving record, which can lead to increased insurance premiums. In some cases, it may also affect your driving privileges. It's important to consider all options, such as seeking a reduction, dismissal, or a
Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC), to potentially mitigate these consequences.
What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in Wake County?
If you receive a traffic ticket in Wake County, it's important to read it carefully and understand your charges. You can either pay the fine, which is an admission of guilt, or contest the ticket. If you choose to contest, consider consulting a traffic ticket lawyer to understand your options and the potential impact on your driving record.
Can a lawyer help reduce or dismiss my traffic ticket?
Yes, a skilled traffic ticket lawyer can often negotiate a reduction in fines or points, or even have the ticket dismissed. They will leverage their knowledge of traffic laws and court procedures to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
How does the process work for contesting a traffic ticket?
To contest a traffic ticket, you or your attorney will need to notify the court of your intent to contest. A court date will be set where you can present your defense. A traffic ticket lawyer will prepare your case, gather evidence, and advocate on your behalf to challenge the ticket’s validity or negotiate a favorable settlement.
Understanding the Long-Term Impact of Traffic Violations in NC
Traffic violations may seem minor at first glance, but they can have significant long-term consequences on your driving record, insurance rates, and overall legal standing. It's essential to understand these implications before deciding how to proceed with your case.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Points on Your License: Accumulating points can lead to license suspension or revocation, affecting your ability to drive legally.
- Increased Insurance Premiums: Insurance companies often raise rates for drivers with traffic violations, which can add up to substantial costs over time.
- Employment Consequences: Certain jobs require a clean driving record. A violation may jeopardize your employment or future job opportunities.
- Legal Record: Traffic violations can become part of your permanent legal record, which may impact future legal matters.
At Kissling Law, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge about the potential repercussions of traffic violations. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate these challenges and work towards minimizing the impact on your life. Let us help you protect your driving record and your future.
Why Do You Need a Traffic Court Attorney?
If you have committed a moving violation and want to protect your rights, it is wise to hire an experienced traffic ticket lawyer to help you get the most favorable result in traffic court. Our firm has handled a wide range of moving violations and understands what it takes to fight for our clients.
Here are several benefits of hiring our traffic court attorney:
- Understanding of traffic laws and regulations, allowing for better knowledge and understanding of your case
- Ability to review the case and advise you on the best course of action
- Access to legal strategies that can help reduce fines or penalties associated with your ticket
- Professional representation that follows through with all proceedings until completion
- Handle the details and paperwork on your behalf
- Negotiation skills to get more lenient outcomes in certain cases
- Increased chances of success in court
How can Attorney Lawrence J. Kissling III help with my speeding ticket in Raleigh or surrounding areas?
With over 33 years of legal experience, Attorney Lawrence J. Kissling III can provide valuable assistance with your speeding ticket in Raleigh and surrounding areas. He can review your case, advise on the best course of action, and represent you in court. His goal is to reduce fines, minimize points on your license, and negotiate for more lenient outcomes, leveraging his understanding of local traffic laws and regulations.
Need a traffic ticket lawyer in Wake County, NC? Contact us today at (919) 346-7927 to discuss your case with our skilled legal team!
