Every time you get behind the wheel of a car or truck, you are bound by the state’s traffic laws and vehicle regulations. If you fail to comply with them, it could cost you dearly. While this usually involves monetary fines, some of these violations could even result in jail time.
If you have recently been ticketed, you do not have to simply pay the fine and move along with your life. You are entitled to put up a defense, and a skilled traffic attorney can help. Let the legal counsel at Parks Zeigler, PLLC, help you defend against traffic violation penalties in Elizabeth City.
Monetary Fines
The penalty most commonly associated with traffic violations in Elizabeth City is monetary fines. The amount of the fine can vary substantially depending on both the specific offense and the relevant facts.
There are traffic infractions and there are traffic misdemeanors. Infractions result in the imposition of a cost and fine only. A misdemeanor traffic offense carries costs, fines, and potential jail time and would be a criminal conviction if a person pleads guilty or is found guilty. At the higher end of traffic violation penalties is a fine of up to $1,000. This is generally reserved for more serious offenses, like reckless driving.
Jail Time
Serious offenses also come with the prospect of time behind bars. These cases, which are considered misdemeanors, are often treated differently due to the potential for incarceration. For example, a person facing these charges has the right to an attorney.
The amount of a jail time for a traffic violation in Elizabeth City can vary. For example, reckless driving could include a jail term of as much as 60 days. A conviction for driving while impaired could result in as much as 36 months in jail, depending on the circumstances.
Suspension of Driving Privileges
One of the most common penalties associated with moving violations is the loss of driving privileges. The law provides different circumstances that can lead to a suspended license. North Carolina—like many other states—operates a points system, where a conviction for certain moving violations places a set number of points on a person’s license. Enough of these points within a set period of time can lead to a suspension. Other causes of license suspensions include the following:
- DWI convictions
- Failure to appear in court
- Failure to pay ordered child support
Depending on the circumstances, any traffic violation in Elizabeth City could result in penalties like license suspensions. Strong legal counsel can help a driver evaluate the strength of the state’s case and fight back against a potential suspension.
Talk to an Attorney in Elizabeth City About Traffic Violation Penalties
If you received a ticket for a moving violation, a conviction could prove to be costly. You have the right to defend yourself in court. Call today to discuss your options during a private consultation with one of our attorneys.
