If you received a traffic ticket in Norfolk, Virginia, you’re not alone. Virginia came in third place in the nation’s top 10 speediest states. Roughly 20,000 speeding tickets are issued every year on Virginia highways. Depending on the ticket, you could be facing severe penalties.
If you have been charged with a criminal traffic violation, you are not alone. A Norfolk criminal traffic attorney may be able to help you get the charges reduced or dismissed. Learn how Christina Pendleton & Associates can assist you by scheduling a free case review.
Understanding Traffic Violations in Virginia
If you have been arrested or issued a citation by a police officer in Virginia, it’s important to know what level of offense you are accused of. You may be charged with an infraction, a misdemeanor, or a felony.
Infractions
Traffic tickets are most commonly issued for minor infractions. This can include minor moving violations such as speeding, tailgating, and rolling stops. Infractions are punishable by:
- Fines
- Points on your license
An infraction will appear on your driving record but will not result in a criminal charge. You cannot be sentenced to jail time for an infraction.
Misdemeanors
If you are stopped for a more serious offense, you may be charged with a misdemeanor offense. Examples include driving without a valid license, reckless driving, and DUI. A misdemeanor traffic violation is a criminal charge and will appear on your criminal record if convicted.
Misdemeanors are punishable by:
- A 90-day suspension of your driver’s license
- Fines as high as $2,500
- Up to one year in jail
Felonies
The most serious traffic offenses in Virginia carry felony charges. Examples include third offense DUI, vehicular homicide, and hit and run accidents resulting in serious injury. A felony traffic violation is a criminal charge with significant consequences.
If convicted, a felony is punishable by:
- A three-year license suspension
- Fines up to $2,500
- Up to 10 years in prison
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What to Expect When You Are Charged with a Criminal Traffic Offense
While criminal traffic offenses are typically charged as misdemeanors, your offense may also be charged as a felony if you have multiple offenses or caused serious bodily harm or death. Both types of criminal traffic offenses have the potential penalties of:
- Fines
- Time behind bars
- Loss of driving privileges
- Vehicle impoundment
- Traffic school
- House arrest
- Probation
You will be required to attend an arraignment in the district where your traffic violation took place. You will hear the charges against you and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. If you choose to plead not guilty, you will plead your case in court before a judge or jury.
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Potential Defenses for Criminal Traffic Violations
Our criminal traffic lawyers in Norfolk can help you build a defense that best fits your case. Our law firm will gather evidence we can use to reduce your charges or get them dropped. Some potential defenses will consider factors, such as:
- Traffic conditions
- Inclimate weather
- Your driving history
- When the officer’s radar gun was last calibrated
At Christina Pendleton & Associates, we will review the details of your case to determine your best defense. Rely on our legal expertise for your criminal defense. We will pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
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Can You Afford to Hire a Criminal Traffic Lawyer in Norfolk?
Our team of criminal traffic attorneys in Norfolk works on a contingency. Our clients pay no upfront fees. We only accept payment after we win your case.
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Contact a Local Norfolk Criminal Traffic Lawyer Today
The Norfolk criminal traffic attorneys at Christina Pendleton & Associates are ready to assist you in creating your defense. Contact us today to request your free consultation. We can get started on your traffic case as soon as you reach out to our experienced legal team.
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