Miami Traffic Violation Defense Lawyer

Lawyer for Traffic Tickets and Criminal Traffic Violations in Miami, FL

Being pulled over by a police officer is never a pleasant experience. In some cases, these situations may lead to minor traffic tickets, while in others, they may result in serious violations and criminal charges. Many drivers underestimate the impact of a traffic violation until they face increased insurance rates, the threat of license suspension, or the possibility of being labeled a habitual traffic offender.

When determining how to proceed in these situations, it is important to consult with an attorney. At The Hoffman Firm, our Miami traffic violation lawyer can help contest tickets, reduce penalties, and defend against more serious traffic-related charges. Whether you are facing a non-criminal infraction or a misdemeanor or felony traffic offense, having legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Non-Criminal Traffic Infractions

Most traffic stops involve minor violations that may lead to fines and points on a person's driver's license. While these violations usually do not involve criminal charges, they can still have lasting effects on a person's insurance rates, and multiple violations could lead to the loss of a driver's license. Common non-criminal infractions include:

• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits on roads or highways can result in fines and points on a driver's record. Excessive speeding may lead to harsher penalties.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Failing to stop when required can result in fines and points, as well as an increased risk of accidents.
• Improper Lane Changes: Passing other vehicles illegally, changing lanes without using a turn signal, or cutting off other drivers can lead to citations.
• Failure to Yield: Ignoring right-of-way rules at intersections, pedestrian crossings, or when merging can result in a violation.
• Driving Without Insurance or Registration: Failing to maintain proper vehicle registration or insurance coverage can result in fines and potential license suspension.

Repeated infractions can accumulate points on a person's driver's license, potentially leading to a license suspension. Traffic tickets may also lead to increased insurance costs.

Criminal Traffic Violations

Certain traffic offenses are treated as criminal offenses, and convictions can result in more severe penalties, including fines, license revocation, and even jail time. Common criminal traffic violations in Miami include:

• Reckless Driving: Driving in a manner that disregards the safety of others is a misdemeanor offense, and in cases involving serious injury or property damage, it can be charged as a felony.
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident(Hit-and-Run): Failing to stop and provide information or aid after an accident can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of the crash.
• Driving With a Suspended License: A person who is charged with operating a vehicle while their driver's license is suspended may face an increased suspension period, fines, and potential jail time.
• Fleeing and Eluding Law Enforcement: Attempting to evade a police officer during a traffic stop is a felony offense that can carry significant prison time if convicted.
• Street Racing: Participating in or organizing a street race is illegal in Florida. This offense can result in vehicle impoundment, license suspension, and potential jail time.

Criminal traffic violations require a strong defense to avoid harsh legal consequences. Our Miami traffic violation attorney can analyze the details of a case, challenge the evidence presented, and negotiate reduced penalties where possible.

Habitual Traffic Offender Classification in Florida

A driver in Florida may be classified as a habitual traffic offender (HTO) if they accumulate:

• Three or more serious traffic convictions (such as DUI, driving with a suspended license, or vehicular manslaughter) within a five-year period
• Fifteen or more moving violations that result in points on a driver's record within five years.

An HTO designation will result in an automatic five-year driver's license revocation. If a person is charged with driving while their license is revoked due to HTO status, they may be charged with a third-degree felony, and they could be sentenced to up to five years in prison and be fined as much as $5,000.

Our Miami traffic violation defense lawyer can help drivers prevent HTO classification by contesting past traffic convictions, seeking to reduce or dismiss charges, and exploring options for hardship licenses.

Defending Against Traffic Violations

Whether you are facing a minor traffic infraction or a serious criminal charge, our attorney can provide crucial legal support. We can:

• Challenge the Validity of a Traffic Stop: If law enforcement lacked probable cause to pull you over, any resulting charges could be dismissed.
• Fight to Reduce or Dismiss Charges: Our lawyer can negotiate to have a citation reduced to a non-moving violation or dismissed altogether.
• Protect Against License Suspension: By contesting traffic violations and seeking alternative penalties, our attorney can help you maintain your driving privileges.
• Defend Against Criminal Traffic Charges: In cases involving more serious offenses, our lawyer can develop a defense strategy to help you avoid jail time, license suspension, or other serious penalties.

Contact Our Miami, Florida Traffic Violations Lawyer

When you are facing criminal traffic charges in Miami, you will need to make sure you take the right steps to protect your license and avoid penalties that could affect you for years to come. At The Hoffman Firm, we can assess your case, explain your legal options, and provide you with representation in traffic court or criminal courts. Call 305-249-0090 or contact us online to discuss your case in a free consultation and explore potential defenses.