Top Indianapolis, IN Speeding Ticket Lawyers Near You

How long do you have to attend traffic school?

Many traffic school programs that would keep a traffic ticket off of your record are only a few hours. A program like this can pay big dividends in helping you get out from under having a ticket make your auto insurance premiums skyrocket. Your attorney can help you better understand your options.

How long does a traffic ticket stay on your record?

This depends on the state you live in. Many states will remove tickets for speeding, running a red light, failure to signal, or other minor violations from your record after five years. More serious offenses, like reckless driving, can stay on your record for 10 years or more.

What happens to your ticket if you plead not guilty?

By paying your ticket, you are pleading guilty and admitting fault. If you wish to contest your ticket, it will contain a court date on it, where you will be able to appear before a judge and state your case. You can have an attorney represent you. The officer who wrote the ticket may show up in court and give testimony for why you deserve the ticket.

What sort of issues can I seek legal help with?

Specialized legal help is available for most legal issues. Each case is unique; seeking legal help is a smart first step toward understanding your legal situation and seeking the best path toward resolution for your case. An experienced lawyer understands the local laws surrounding your case and what your best legal options might be. More importantly, there are certain situations and circumstances – such as being charged with a crime – where you should always seek experienced legal help.

The Importance of a Good Consultation

The goal of an initial consultation is to find an attorney you are comfortable working with and someone who can help you understand your options under the law. Seek to understand the relevant legal experience the attorney brings to your case. While it is not realistic to expect an attorney to resolve your legal issue during an initial consultation, you should gain a level of comfort with his/her ability to do so. A good consultation can clarify issues, raise pertinent questions and considerations for your case, and help you make an informed decision towards resolving your legal issue.

How will an attorney charge me?

A reputable attorney will be very upfront about how he/she will charge you. The three most common fee structures that attorneys use to charge for their services are:

• Bill by the hour
• Contingent fee agreement
• Flat fee agreement

Depending on your specific legal situation, it’s possible that only one type of fee structure is available. For instance, criminal defense attorneys almost always bill by the hour. In a flat fee arrangement, an attorney accepts a one-time payment to help you resolve your issue. With a contingent fee agreement, the client pays little to nothing upfront and the attorney receives a percentage of the money recovered if you win your case.

Common legal terms explained

Plaintiff – a person or party who brings a lawsuit against another person(s) or party/parties in a court of law. Private persons or parties can only file suit in civil court.

Judgment – A decision of the court. Also known as a decree or order. Judgments handed down by the court are usually binding on the parties before the court.