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Should I Pay a Traffic Ticket or Go to Court?
Traffic tickets can vary greatly in their degree of importance. Some traffic citations are very minor while others may be more serious. Many people wonder whether they should simply pay the ticket or try to fight the charges. Every situation is different and you will need to weigh your decision on many factors. However, it is important to keep in mind that in Florida the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles utilizes the point system to track your driving record. Every time you are guilty of a traffic violation you accumulate a certain number of points on your driver’s license. Too many points will cause your auto insurance rates to increase and your driver’s license may even be suspended or revoked.
Traffic Tickets
Traffic tickets may range from a speeding ticket to more complex charges. Some of the most common types of traffic tickets include:
- Speeding
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Failure to yield
- Running a red light
- Failure to signal
- Driving without insurance
- Drunk driving
Sometimes you may be given multiple tickets during the same traffic stop. For example, if you are stopped for speeding and you aren’t wearing your seatbelt and your insurance is expired you’ll receive several tickets. Each ticket carries certain penalties that may include fines and points on your driver’s license. The more severe the offense the more harsh the penalties will be.
Going to Court
Just receiving a ticket doesn’t mean that you’re guilty of the charges. Once you pay the ticket you are admitting guilt and points and fines will be applied. You have 30 days from issuance of ticket to decide what to do. If you wish to go to court you can fight the ticket and have a chance of being found not-guilty. It’s almost always worthwhile to try to fight your ticket in court. There are many situations where the ticket may end up being resolved in your favor. In order to have the best possible position in court you’ll need representation by an experienced attorney. Your lawyer will review every aspect of your case including the traffic stop itself to determine the best way to defend your case. If you have multiple tickets or tickets with severe penalties it is especially important to seek effective counsel. Most people who are successful in court are those who have a knowledgeable lawyer handling their case. It may be desirable to go to court on a minor ticket because the points on your license could add up and any later infractions could be devastating.
How to Take your Case to Court
When you receive a traffic ticket you will have 3 choices. You may choose to pay the ticket, attend driving classes, or request a court hearing. If you plead not-guilty you will be granted a court date and will receive notice as to when it will occur. Your lawyer will attend court with you and will plead your case in front of the judge. If you are found guilty the judge will impose your penalty including any fines and points on your license. Your attorney will review your case and advise you on your choices – every case is different. When you have received a ticket it’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible so that he can begin to learn the details of your case and give you the best advice about your specific situation.
Decades of Trusted Service. Hundreds of Grateful Voices.
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“David Katz sets the standard by which all other defense attorney's must measure. He not only knows his craft and has the experience to back it up, he relishes forcing his opponents to follow the law towards the best outcome for his clients.”- Karate K.
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“Christine Vazquez took on our case with a 24hr commitment. She put everything on the line to hold the judicial system accountable.”- Phil W.
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“I can’t thank attorneys Christine Vazquez and David Katz enough for the incredible job they did on my DUI case.”- Gabriel H.
Why Hire Katz & Phillips?
Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:
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Board-Certified* Attorneys
Our founding attorneys are two of three board-certified* DUI defense lawyers in the state.
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Former Prosecution Experience
As former prosecutors, we bring an invaluable perspective and skillset to every case.
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High Success Rate in Criminal Defense
With a 90%+ success rate, our proven track record of success speaks for itself.
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Decades of Experience
With more than 10,000 cases handled, our advocates are well versed in criminal law to help you navigate your case with care and efficiency.
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Always Responsive
Our team is available to take your call and address any questions or concerns you have.
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Financing Available
The last thing you need during a criminal case is financial stress. Our firm offers financing with no credit check required.
Meet Your Dedicated Defense Team
Led by two of Florida's Board-Certified* DUI Experts, Our attorneys bring together more than 50 years of success, defending clients across Florida against criminal and DUI charges.
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DUI Charges Reduced
The court deemed all other conditions satisfied so M.A. did not have to go on probation at all and walked out of courthouse with a fine and fees to pay, and the case behind her.
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Case Dismissed
J.A.R. had had a previous DUI conviction and was facing mandatory jail time if convicted of this offense. In reviewing the discovery provided by the state, our team found several issues with the police investigation, and realized that our clients’ rights had been violated.
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All Charges Dropped
In reviewing the evidence provided by the State our team realized that T.R.’s rights had been violated when she was immediately illegally arrested by the Trooper. Further, there were many other errors made by the Trooper which would result in the evidence gathered being suppressed.
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All Charges Dropped
In this case, our client, R.H., was out with friends. A family member who was angry with him tracked his location by tracking his cell phone, called the police, told them he was very drunk, and led the police right to his car. The officers stopped his car and eventually arrested him.
Our Case Results
Two of Florida’s only Board-Certified* DUI Defense experts fighting for you.
- DUI Charges Reduced
- Case Dismissed
- All Charges Dropped
- All Charges Dropped
