Criminal Traffic

Criminal Traffic Offenses and Your Future
Criminal traffic charges involve more than simple tickets because offenses such as reckless driving, driving while the license is suspended, and leaving the scene of an accident are prosecuted as crimes. Lawson and Simmons offer criminal traffic defense to help protect your driving privileges, freedom, and record.

Penalties for Criminal Traffic Offenses
Depending on the charge and prior history, criminal traffic convictions can bring jail time, probation, fines, community service, and driver’s license suspension or revocation. Long-term consequences can include higher insurance premiums and limited job options, especially for those who drive for work.

Defenses in Criminal Traffic Cases
Defenses may involve challenging the basis for a traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of speed measurements, or disputing whether your license was actually suspended. In hit-and-run cases, your attorney may focus on whether you knew an accident occurred or whether you fulfilled legal duties at the scene. Careful review of dashcam footage, officer body cameras, and witness accounts is central to traffic crime defense.

Why Early Criminal Traffic Representation Matters
Deadlines for addressing license suspensions and court dates are short. Early representation allows your defense lawyer to seek modifications of driving restrictions, appear at arraignments, and negotiate with prosecutors before your case escalates. Waiting can lead to warrants, additional charges, or deeper license problems.

How a Criminal Traffic Lawyer Can Help
Lawson and Simmons can evaluate the citation, review the evidence, and explain the consequences of pleading guilty versus fighting the charge. With our thorough strategy sessions, you can discuss goals such as keeping your license, avoiding jail, or minimizing points, and your attorney can build a plan with those goals in mind.

What We Do

Reckless and Aggressive Driving Cases

Defense for charges involving alleged willful disregard for safety on the road.

Driving While License Suspended or Revoked

Representation in DWLS cases, including accusations of habitual traffic offender status.

Hit-and-Run / Leaving the Scene Allegations

Defense for drivers accused of failing to remain at an accident scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a civil ticket and a criminal traffic charge?
   Civil tickets typically involve fines and points, while criminal traffic offenses can lead to jail, probation, and a criminal record. The stakes are higher in criminal traffic cases, which is why legal help is so important.
2. Can I go to jail for driving while my license is suspended?
   Yes. Repeated DWLS offenses or cases involving accidents or injuries can result in jail sentences and longer suspensions. Your attorney can work to reduce penalties and explore options that may help you regain lawful driving status.
3. Should I plead guilty to avoid multiple trips to court?
   A quick plea might seem convenient, but it can lead to serious long-term consequences for your license and record. A confidential strategy session with our criminal traffic attorney helps you understand the full impact before making any decision.