Traffic Violations Attorney in Ogden
Experienced Legal Representation for DUI, Reckless Driving, & License Suspension
Our attorneys at Stevens & Gailey, PLLC are extremely knowledgeable in Utah traffic laws and will assist and protect clients charged with traffic crimes throughout the Salt Lake City, Utah area. We will work above and beyond on your case to ensure your rights are protected. With offices in Ogden and American Fork, we can help you no matter where you live! Don’t hesitate to call us now and set up your initial consultation.
If you’ve been charged with a driving crime or have been involved in an accident, do not hesitate to call us at (801) 761-2124 or reach out online. With our initial consultation, we can help you know the right path to take.
Understanding Utah's Traffic Violation System
Utah categorizes traffic offenses primarily as infractions or misdemeanors, with penalties varying based on the severity of the violation and a driver's history.
Most traffic crimes are classified as minor infractions (no imprisonment and fines up to $750) or Class C misdemeanors (maximum imprisonment of 90 days and fines up to $750). Some traffic crimes, such as driving under the influence, are classified as more serious wrongdoings, which have penalties such as longer terms of imprisonment and hefty fines.
Common Traffic Violations We Handle
Utah law provides for a wide diversity of felony and misdemeanor traffic offenses, including:
- Driving with a suspended license
- Driving with a revoked license
- Driving without insurance
- Reckless driving & endangerment
- DUI
- Hit and run
- Failure to Yield Right-of-Way
- Running a Red Light or Stop Sign
- Speeding
Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License
In Utah, driving with a suspended or revoked license can happen due to different circumstances. For example, you’re pulled over for a routine traffic stop, and:
- You have a current valid license, but you don’t have it with you. You have a current and valid driver’s license but are unable to show proof. This can be dismissed by going to court and proving you had a valid license at the time of the incident. However, you may still have to pay a fine.
- You never acquired a license, or your license has expired. This is usually an infraction and can have fines of up to $750.
- Your license was canceled, revoked, or suspended by the authorities. For first-time offenders, this can be a smaller violation, like a Class C misdemeanor with a fine of up to $750 and up to 90 days in jail. If your license was suspended or revoked for a worse crime, such as a DUI, it is a worse infraction and can be a Class B misdemeanor. Also, accruing 200 or more points within a three-year time frame can lead to license suspension.
Fighting a charge for driving on a suspended or revoked license can be problematic. Depending on your situation, you may need the advantage and guidance of a skilled and knowledgeable attorney. Don’t put yourself in jeopardy of possibly going to jail merely because you were driving on a suspended or revoked driver’s license.
What Happens if You Ignore Your Ticket
Ignoring a traffic ticket can have serious consequences that extend beyond just the immediate fine. When a ticket is issued, the court typically expects a timely response. Failure to address the ticket by either paying the fine, contesting the charges, or appearing in court can lead to escalating penalties. First, the court may add late fees or increase the original fine amount. These additional costs can quickly add up, making it much more expensive than simply addressing the ticket on time.
Further, ignoring a ticket can result in the suspension of your driver's license. In many cases, the court will issue a "failure to appear" notice, leading to a suspension or revocation of your license until the matter is resolved. This can be especially damaging if you rely on your license for work or personal obligations. A suspended license can also lead to additional charges if you are caught driving without a valid license.
In some instances, ignoring a ticket may even lead to a bench warrant being issued for your arrest. This could result in a criminal charge and possible jail time, depending on the severity of the violation. Moreover, if the matter remains unresolved for a long period, the court may turn the case over to collections, which could affect your credit score and create long-term financial consequences.
For these reasons, it is crucial to take prompt action when receiving a traffic ticket. Consulting with a traffic attorney can help prevent these complications and ensure that you handle the situation appropriately.
Driven by integrity, compassion, & commitment Why Choose Stevens & Gailey, PLLC?
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Trusted AdvisorsWhether facing complex legal challenges or high-value disputes, you need a firm you can trust. With extensive experience and a reputation for excellence, we are here to guide you through every step with confidence and expertise.
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Unwavering CommitmentYour success is our priority. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to deliver the best possible outcomes, offering personalized attention and a strategic approach that’s always focused on your needs.
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Tailored StrategiesHandling complex, high-stakes cases requires a deep understanding of financial intricacies. We specialize in managing high-net-worth cases, crafting personalized legal strategies designed to protect your assets and interests.
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Bilingual Legal ExpertiseWe’re proud to offer legal services in both English and Spanish. Our bilingual team ensures that language is never a barrier to receiving top-tier legal representation, providing clear communication for all our clients.
Why You Should Fight Your Traffic Ticket
Simply paying a traffic ticket is an admission of guilt. While it may seem like the easiest path, it can have far-reaching negative consequences that often outweigh the initial fine.
- Increased Insurance Premiums: Insurance companies frequently raise rates for drivers with moving violations, sometimes for years after the offense. The cumulative cost of increased premiums can be far greater than the original fine. An Ogden traffic violations lawyer works to keep your rates low.
- Points on Your Driving Record: Accumulating points can lead to license suspension, especially for younger drivers. Even if your license isn't suspended, too many points signal a risky driver.
- Driver's License Suspension/Revocation: Serious individual offenses (like reckless driving or DUI) or an accumulation of points can lead to the loss of your driving privileges, which can severely impact your job, family responsibilities, and daily life.
- Criminal Record: Misdemeanor traffic violations become part of your criminal record, which can appear on background checks for employment, housing, or educational opportunities.
- Mandatory Court Appearance: Some violations, like driving on a suspended license or no insurance, require a mandatory court appearance, which you must attend to avoid a warrant for your arrest. A traffic violations attorney in Ogden can guide you through this process or appear on your behalf.
- Future Offenses: Each violation can make future penalties more severe. A clean driving record is crucial for minimizing the impact of any subsequent tickets.
Utah State Penalties
- Driver’s License Suspension: $30 Reinstatement Fee
- Vehicle Registration Suspension: $100 Reinstatement Fee
- Vehicle Impounded: Tow and Impound Fees
- Ticket on Your First Offense: $400 Minimum Fee
- Ticket on Further Offenses: $1,000 Minimum Fee
- At Fault Accident: $30 Minimum Fee
Effective Defense Strategies for Traffic Violations
Building a strong defense against traffic violations in Utah involves thoroughly scrutinizing the officer's actions and the evidence presented. This includes challenging officer observations and testimony by examining the line of sight, speedometer calibration for pacing, officer training, and any inconsistencies in reports. We also dispute the accuracy of speed measurement devices by demanding calibration records, identifying operator error, or citing environmental factors like weather that could affect readings. Crucially, we challenge the legality of the initial stop; if the stop was unlawful, any evidence gathered afterwards may be suppressed, potentially leading to dismissal.
Further defense strategies involve meticulously reviewing evidence such as dashcam/bodycam footage, photos, and videos for crucial details. We may argue a lack of intent for charges where it's an element, or invoke a mistake of fact if signs were obscured or signals misunderstood. In rare instances, a necessity or emergency defense can be raised if the violation was unavoidable to prevent harm. Often, the most effective approach is negotiation with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a non-moving violation or secure a plea in abeyance, which can prevent points on your record and higher insurance premiums.
Choose Stevens & Gailey, PLLC for Your Traffic Violation Defense
Your driving record is a valuable asset, impacting your daily life and financial well-being. A traffic violation, even a seemingly minor one, can have lasting consequences if not handled properly. Don't simply pay the ticket and accept the hidden penalties.
Stevens & Gailey, PLLC is dedicated to providing aggressive and effective representation for individuals facing traffic violations throughout Utah, particularly for those seeking a traffic violations attorney in Ogden. We have a deep understanding of the intricacies of Utah traffic law and a commitment to protecting your rights.
Secure your initial consultation by calling (801) 761-2124 or contacting us online. We'll help you identify the right path forward.
