What Driving Ticket Offenses Do You Have To Go To Court For?

Not all traffic tickets are equal. While some offer easy court-free resolutions, others need you to attend court. These court-required offenses are more serious and carry heavier penalties—possibly even criminal charges.

Benavides Law Group wants to clarify what driving ticket offenses you must go to court for, the potential penalties you could face, and how our criminal defense lawyers in Houston can help make the process as hassle-free as possible.

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When Do I Have To Appear In Court For Driving Ticket Offenses?

Driving Under the Influence or While Intoxicated

Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense that requires a court appearance.

Depending on the level of intoxication and any previous offenses, an individual may face fines, license suspension, community service, and even jail time.

More courtroom appearances will likely be required if the ticketed driver wants to fight the charges with the help of a DWI defense lawyer.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is when a driver operates with a «willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others.» You can get a ticket for reckless driving that requires a court appearance when:

• You’re driving 25 mph or more over the speed limit, commonly known as excessive speeding
• You were involved in an accident that resulted in serious injury or death
• You were evading law enforcement
• You were drag or street racing

The court takes these and other reckless driving actions very seriously. They can result in steep fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

Hit-and-Run

Fleeing the scene of an accident doesn’t mean never getting caught. Even if the driver isn’t initially found, the victim or witnesses may have identified the car, and law enforcement can issue a ticket that requires a court appearance.

In addition to facing penalties for leaving the scene of an accident, the driver may also face additional charges if injuries or fatalities result from the incident.

Driving On A Suspended or Revoked License

Driving with a suspended or revoked license can land you with a driving ticket that requires a court appearance. This is the case, even whether or not you realize that the license was suspended.

The court takes this offense seriously as it demonstrates a flagrant disregard for traffic laws and can result in further suspension or revocation of your license, fines, and even jail time.

Violating School Zone Traffic Laws

School zones are designated to protect the safety of students and anyone else in the area. As such, the police strictly enforce traffic laws in school zones, and any violations may result in a ticket that requires a court appearance. This can include speeding, passing or overtaking a stopped school bus displaying flashing lights, or not yielding to pedestrians.

The penalties for these offenses can vary depending on the severity of the violation. For example, in Houston, passing a stopped school bus can result in a fine of up to $1,250 and six points on your driver’s license.

Committing Traffic Offenses in High Risk Zones

In certain protected areas you may have to appear in court for tickets that wouldn’t normally require it. These zones can include construction zones, work zones, or maintenance areas.

Offenses committed in these high-risk zones come with increased penalties, such as higher fines and longer license suspensions.

Can I Hire A Lawyer For My Traffic Ticket?

Tickets for driving offenses requiring a court appearance are often complex. They may require the assistance of a defense lawyer to help mitigate the severity of or challenge the charges. Ways a lawyer can help in various court-required traffic citations include:

• Advocating for a reduced penalty or sentence

• Gathering evidence and witnesses to support your case

• Negotiating for alternative sentencing options such as community service or traffic school

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop or citation

Without a lawyer helping to combat the charges, you may end up with a criminal record, hefty fines, and other serious consequences. Hiring a traffic ticket lawyer can help alleviate the stress and uncertainty of navigating the legal system for court-required driving offenses.

What To Expect In Court For A Driving Ticket Offense

Traffic court isn’t like the dramatic trials you see in movies or TV shows. Instead, it is typically a formal proceeding where the judge will hear your case and make a judgment based on evidence and testimony presented by both parties.

In some cases, traffic court may also offer an opportunity for plea bargaining, where the defendant can plead guilty to a lesser offense in exchange for reduced penalties. Your lawyer can advise whether this option is viable for your case.

Once a decision has been made, you may have the option to appeal the verdict if you believe there were errors or injustices in the proceedings. If you choose not to appeal, you will be expected to fulfill any penalties or sentences imposed by the court.

Failing to comply with the court’s decision or completing the required penalties can result in further consequences, such as increased fines or even jail time, not to mention more court appearances. It is best to take any court-ordered requirements seriously and fulfill them as soon as possible to avoid further legal issues.

Benavides Law Group | Traffic Ticket Lawyers Ready To Help You

Going to a Houston court for any type of traffic offense is an overwhelming and anxiety-inducing experience for most people. The legal team at Benavides Law Group understands this and is here to offer comprehensive and compassionate legal support that helps your case toward a favorable outcome.

If you are unsure what your traffic ticket offense requires, have doubts about its validity, or want experienced legal support to help combat any charges, schedule a confidential consultation at 713-222-2828 with our award-winning criminal defense law firm.

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