Traffic Violations in Chicago, IL
Chicago Traffic Violation Attorney
Traffic Violation Attorney in Chicago, IL
Speeding offenses, driving on a suspended license, and other traffic offenses can have a halting effect on your driving privileges. If you've received a ticket for speeding, depending on your speed, you could even face a criminal conviction. Many people make the mistake of simply pleading guilty of their offense and paying the fee online. There many ways to challenge the offense, negotiate for a dismissal, ask for an offense to be amended, and other ways that would preserve your driving privileges. Call our firm today to discuss your options.
Charged with Speeding in Chicago, IL?
Speeding in General
Lets face it, most of us speed. Whether we’re late for work, late for our kids soccer game or just enjoying a nice summer day, our foot gets a little heavy. Police officers are of course diligent in ticketing drivers who go over the speed limit. There are multiple ways a police officer can detect your speed. In most common scenarios, the officer is able to detect your speed with a radar. The officer can also be traveling behind you and pace you, or in other words travel at the same speed you are traveling and determine your speed from the officers speedometer. In any case, these methods are not always 100% accurate.
Petty Speeding in Chicago
If you are charged with speeding for going 25 miles per hour or less over the speed limit, you will be charged with a petty speeding offense. Petty speeding is only punishable by a fine and/or traffic safety school. In most situations, a person can be eligible for court supervision. You are only eligible for up to two supervisions within a 12 month time period. Supervision does not have an impact on your driving privileges nor points on your insurance. However, once you are no longer eligible for supervision, you will receive a conviction. Multiple convictions can suspend your driving privileges and raise insurance rates. It is important to note that there are some speeding offenses that are petty but require additional high fines. For example, a Scott’s Law violation (failing to change lanes when approaching an emergency vehicle) can require a minimum of $500.00 plus court assessments. In many cases we can negotiate with the State to avoid minimum fines.
Aggravated Speeding in Chicago
Aggravated Speeding is a great deal more serious than petty speeding. If a person is traveling 26 miles per hour over the speed limit, they will be charged with a Class B misdemeanor which is a criminal offense and carries with it potential jail time. This of course depends on your driving history, the circumstances in the case, and other factors. In fact, the law imposes a maximum jail sentence of 180 days in jail for Aggravated Speeding, going 26MPH and over. If a person is traveling 35 miles per hour over the speed limit, they will be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, a more severe criminal offense. The law can impose a maximum jail sentence of 364 days in jail for speeding in excess of 35MPH over the speed limit. In many cases, our attorneys are able negotiate with the prosecutors to change the ticket so that you are no longer charged with a criminal offense at all. Call our firm to discuss your options.
Penalties of Aggravated Speeding in Chicago
Under Illinois law, if a person travels 26 miles per hour or more over the speed limit, they could be charged with a Class B misdemeanor carrying with it a possible punishment up to 180 days in jail and heavy fines. If a person travels 35 miles per hour or more over the speed limit, a person could face a Class A misdemeanor carrying a possible sentence up to 364 days in jail and heavy fines.
Other Traffic Violations in Chicago, IL
Moving Violations in Chicago, IL
Moving violations are violations that involve some type of offense while your vehicle is in motion. For example, failure to stop at a stop sign, failure to yield, and improper lane usage are all moving violations. If you plead guilty or are found guilty of a moving violence, your driving privileges could be affected. Other types of tickets such as passing a school, failure to stop at a stop sign, driving too fast for conditions and reckless driving can negatively impact your driving privileges and increase insurance rates. At Bernard Law we will fight by persuading the State to amend the ticket or by going to trial. Contact us today.
Driving Without Car Insurance in Illinois
The State of Illinois has harsh punishments for motorists not driving with insurance. If you receive a conviction on your record for driving without insurance, the Secretary of State will likely suspend your license for a period of time. If you receive supervision for driving without insurance, you will likely be required to obtain SR-22 insurance. There are ways to have a no insurance tickets dismissed in certain situations. Contact Bernard Law.
Common Drivers License Issues in Illinois
Driving on a Suspended License in Illinois
The State of Illinois is strict when it comes to individuals who drive on a suspended license. The reason why a person's license is suspended can be the difference between receiving a small fine and receiving 364 days in jail. Don't risk a severe sentence, and call us to help you.
License Reinstatement in Chicago, IL
The Illinois Secretary of State has the authority to suspend or revoke your license under certain circumstances. Not all hope is lost. There are ways in which a person can request a hearing to ask the Secretary of State to reinstate your license. Having a knowledgeable attorney is of the upmost importance if you plan to have good chances at winning a reinstatement hearing. Contact Bernard Law so you get back to driving.
Commercial Driver’s License
Commercial Driver’s License (“CDL”) holders are held at a much higher standard than standard driver’s license holders. Being found guilty or pleading guilty to a moving violation could revoke a CDL license holder entirely. Without a CDL license, a person could be out of a job and incapable of providing for their family. It is paramount that you retain an experienced attorney who can negotiate for you to avoid a negative impact on your CDL license.
Frequently Asked Questions: Traffic Violations
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If stopped for a traffic ticket in Chicago, stay calm and respectful. Provide required documents, such as license and registration. Follow the officer's instructions, and avoid admitting guilt. Remember, you have the right to contest the ticket later in court if you choose.
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Whether you need a lawyer for a Chicago traffic ticket depends on the circumstances. For minor infractions, you might handle it yourself. However, for complex cases or potential license/insurance repercussions, consulting a traffic lawyer could help protect your rights and navigate the legal process more effectively.
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Yes, an Illinois traffic ticket can impact your auto insurance rates in Illinois.. Insurance companies often consider traffic violations when determining rates. Depending on the severity of the violation, your rates could increase significantly, so it's essential to consider the potential consequences of contesting or paying the ticket.
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If you do not pay your traffic ticket or court fines, there could be serious consequences. Your driver's license might be suspended, leading to additional fees for reinstatement. Warrants might be issued for your arrest, and your credit score could be negatively affected. It's crucial to address fines promptly to avoid these complications.
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If you missed your court date, act quickly. Go to the clerk’s office of the courthouse and explain your situation. Even better, call an attorney to explain your issue. Your attorney can act quickly to avoid severe consequences including the suspension of your driving privileges. Ignoring the missed date could also lead to a bench warrant for your arrest. It's essential to address the issue promptly to avoid further legal complications.
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It depends. A red light ticket issued by a red light camera in Chicago, IL can cost around $100.00. If a police officer observes a red light violation in Chicago, IL, it typically costs around $300. However, the exact amount can vary based on the specific circumstances of the violation and any additional fees or penalties associated with the ticket. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your ticket for the exact fine amount.
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The cost of a traffic lawyer in Illinois can vary widely based on factors such as the complexity of your case, the lawyer's experience, and the specific services required. On average, fees can range from $450 to $1,000 or more. It's recommended to consult with potential lawyers to get a clear understanding of their pricing structure and what services are included.
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Hiring a lawyer to fight your traffic ticket in Chicago can be beneficial, especially for complex cases or if the ticket might lead to serious consequences like increased insurance rates or license suspension. An experienced traffic lawyer can navigate the legal system, present potential defenses, and negotiate on your behalf to potentially reduce or dismiss the charges.
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Choose Bernard Law, P.C. as your traffic violation attorney in Chicago for our proven track record of successfully handling various traffic cases. Our experienced team understands local laws and court procedures, enabling us to develop effective defense strategies tailored to your situation. We prioritize your rights, offering personalized attention and dedicated representation throughout the legal process.
