Driving a vehicle on Illinois’ various roadways inherently puts a person at risk of being cited for a traffic violation. No one can drive perfectly all of the time, and sometimes a driver may not even be aware that their vehicle may somehow not be in compliance with the relevant “non-moving” regulations. As a result, many of us who drive will at some point receive a traffic ticket for some type of violation. Because they are so common, many drivers believe that traffic tickets are simply a minor annoyance that is best dealt with by simply paying the fine and moving on with their lives. In reality, traffic tickets can result in serious legal and financial consequences, particularly when a driver receives several in a relatively short period of time. Consequently, it is important for anyone who has been issued a traffic citation to discuss their situation with an experienced Chicago traffic ticket attorney. In the meantime, the information below is intended to provide drivers with some answers to frequently asked questions regarding traffic tickets.

What are the potential penalties associated with a traffic ticket?

Generally speaking, the penalties associated with pleading guilty to a traffic ticket include fines and points1 being added to your driver’s license. If you accrue too many points in a given period of time, it can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. In addition, points on your driver’s license may also result in an increase in your car insurance premiums.

Should I handle my traffic ticket myself?

Generally speaking, an attorney will be able to obtain a much better outcome in your case that you would be able to acting pro se2 (without an attorney). Often, prosecutors will work with defense attorney to reduce the severity of a traffic ticket in return for the payment of a larger fine, thereby avoiding points being added to your license. More information can be found in the official Illinois Vehicle Code available here3.

Will I have to appear in court if I hire an attorney?

In many cases, people who are represented by an attorney will not have to personally appear in court.

Is hiring an attorney expensive?

Of course, the attorney’s fees associated with representation for a traffic ticket will depend on several factors, including the offense with which you are accused, the complexity of the matter, and the amount of time it will take your attorney to successfully resolve the matter. Generally speaking, people who choose to hire an attorney to handle their traffic ticket save a significant amount of time and money in the long run.

Contact a Chicago traffic ticket lawyer today to schedule a free consultation

Chicago criminal defense attorney Nenye Uche represents clients across a wide variety of cases in the Chicagoland area, including traffic tickets, DUIs, white collar crime, and sex crimes, among others. To schedule a free consultation with Mr. Uche, call our office today at (888) 251-4438.

1 http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/092/092010400000200R.html
2 http://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/pro_se
3 http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ChapterID=49&ActID=1815

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