St. Petersburg Traffic Ticket Lawyer

When you have been pulled over by a police officer and issued a traffic ticket in St. Petersburg, you will usually have two options. You can pay the ticket and deal with the penalties, or you can choose to fight the ticket with the help of a traffic ticket lawyer.

At The Law Place, we have over seventy-five years of collective experience when it comes to investigating traffic tickets and defending the rights of clients in St. Petersburg and across the State of Florida. Our law firm has successfully won many traffic ticket-related cases, including driving under the influence, reckless driving, speeding, and more.

Our team of criminal defense lawyers has the necessary knowledge and resources to guide you through the legal system and develop your case accordingly. We have helped hundreds of clients to get their tickets dismissed and keep their driving records clean. If you put your trust in us, our law firm will handle every aspect of your case and fight to get your ticket dismissed against all odds.

Contact The Law Place to schedule a free consultation today, and a criminal defense lawyer will fight your traffic ticket in St. Petersburg.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fighting a Traffic Ticket in St. Petersburg

Contesting a traffic ticket in St. Petersburg involves a systematic approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Review Your Ticket – Carefully read the traffic ticket for any inaccuracies and note the violation you’re charged with. Understand the deadline by which you must respond to the ticket.
2. Decide to Contest – Make a decision to either pay the ticket or contest it. Remember, paying the ticket is an admission of guilt.
3. Gather Evidence – Collect any evidence that supports your case. This could include photographs of the scene, witness statements, or any other relevant information that contradicts the violation.
4. Hire a Traffic Ticket Lawyer – Consider consulting with a traffic ticket lawyer, especially if the violation is serious. A lawyer experienced in St. Petersburg traffic laws can provide valuable guidance and representation.
5. File a Not Guilty Plea – If you decide to contest, file a not guilty plea with the court mentioned on the ticket. This can typically be done by mail or in person.
6. Prepare for Court – Work with your lawyer to prepare your case for court. This may involve practicing your testimony and understanding the legal arguments in your favor.
7. Attend the Court Hearing – On the scheduled date, attend the court hearing. Be punctual, dress appropriately, and be respectful to the judge and court staff.
8. Present Your Case – During the hearing, present your evidence and testimony. Your lawyer will argue on your behalf, questioning any witnesses and making legal points.
9. Await the Judge’s Decision – After hearing both sides, the judge will make a decision. If found not guilty, the ticket will be dismissed.
10. Follow Up – If the ticket is dismissed, ensure that the court notifies the DMV to remove the violation from your record. If found guilty, discuss further options with your lawyer, including an appeal if justified.

The Differences Between Moving and Non-Moving Traffic Tickets in St. Petersburg, FL.

Depending on the type of traffic ticket that you have been issued by a police officer, you could have committed a moving or non-moving violation in St. Petersburg. It is important to know the distinction between a moving and non-moving citation. First of all, they are both recognized as traffic violations, but they are different in nature. A moving violation involves a driver breaking the rules of the road while in motion, and a non-moving violation is usually based on paperwork and parking.

The most common types of moving violations tend to include:

• Reckless driving.
• Careless driving.
• Speeding.
• Racing.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Aggressive driving.
• Distracted driving.
• Causing an accident.
• Improper lane changing.
• Stop sign violations.
• Failing to obey a traffic control device.
• Failing to signal.
• Driving too fast for weather or road conditions.

The most common types of non-moving violations tend to include:

• Parking in a restricted area.
• Parking in a handicapped spot.
• Driving without a license.
• Driving without insurance.
• Driving with a suspended license.
• Leaving the scene of an accident.
• Habitual traffic offender.
• Driving a motor vehicle without authorization.
• Improperly displayed license plate.
• Failure to show proof of insurance.
• Unlawful use of a driver’s license.
• Driving with an expired tag or vehicle registration number.
• Having illegal tint.

Every traffic case is different from the next, and they all require an investigation into the facts and circumstances surrounding each one. It is imperative that you seek legal counsel with a traffic ticket attorney from The Law Place. Call us today to set up a free consultation, and we will answer all of the questions that you have in regard to your case.

Options After Receiving a Traffic Ticket in St. Petersburg, FL.

You will usually have three options after receiving a traffic ticket in St. Petersburg.

• Pay the ticket – You can pay the ticket either online, in person, or through the mail. However, it will count as an adjudication of guilt. You will receive points on your license if it was a moving violation, and your insurance rates will increase.
• Go to driving school – If you are eligible, you can go to driving school and complete a four-hour course which means that adjudication will be withheld, and you will not receive any points on your license. However, you cannot go to driving school if your traffic ticket requires a mandatory appearance in court. Furthermore, you can only go to driving school once within a 12 month period and five times in a single lifetime. In addition, commercial license drivers will not be given the option of going to driving school at all.
• Fight the ticket – If you do not agree with the traffic ticket that you were issued, then you will always have the option to fight the ticket. Call a traffic ticket attorney from The Law Place today to set up a free consultation. We will appear in court on your behalf and fight to avoid you getting points on your driver’s license.

What to Do After Receiving a Traffic Ticket in St. Petersburg, FL.

• Step one – You were pulled over by a police officer, and you received a traffic ticket.
• Step two – You must call a traffic ticket attorney at The Law Place in order to get immediate legal advice and start your defense.
• Step three – Our team of traffic ticket lawyers will take your case to court and fight to get your ticket dismissed or resolved as soon as possible. In most cases, you will not even have to go to court, as we will attend court on your behalf.
• Step four – Your case has now been closed or dismissed, and points were not added to your license.

How We Will Fight Your Traffic Ticket in St. Petersburg, FL.

The Law Place will start your case by:

• We will investigate the nature of your traffic ticket. If there is a discrepancy, the traffic ticket will most likely get thrown out.
• We will discuss the facts and circumstances surrounding your case with you directly. We will also discuss your driving history, which will help us to decide if we need to plea bargain.
• We will explain the possible outcomes that will help you decide the best way to proceed with your case.
• We will deal with the related paperwork and file the documents on your behalf so that we can keep your driving record clean.
• We will keep you up to date in regard to the status of your case, and we will let you know if we need to go to trial.

Types of Driving Penalties in St. Petersburg, FL.

There are often more consequences than you think when you commit a moving violation in St. Petersburg. You will receive penalties that will be attached to your driving record, such as:

• Points against your driver’s license.
• A license suspension, revocation, or cancellation depending on the nature of your violation.
• An increase in auto insurance rates.
• Surcharges (like DUI charges).

Fines for Speeding Tickets in St. Petersburg, FL.

The most common type of moving violation is usually speeding in the State of Florida. Points tend to accumulate more quickly for speeding compared to any other type of violation. However, the fines that drivers will have to pay for their ticket often varies depending on how fast they were traveling.

• 6 to 9 mph over the speed limit – The driver will have to pay a fine of up to $129.
• 10 to 14 mph over the speed limit – The driver will have to pay a fine of up to $204.
• 15 to 19 mph over the speed limit – The driver will have to pay a fine of up to $254.
• 20 to 29 mph over the speed limit – The driver will have to pay a fine of up to $279.
• 30 mph or more over the speed limit – The driver will have to make a mandatory appearance in court.

The Points System in St. Petersburg, FL.

You should know that the costs and consequences of your traffic ticket will not end once you pay the fine, as you will also need to consider the points that will be added to your driving license in St. Petersburg.

The State of Florida works according to a points system, which means that every moving violation has a certain value of points. For instance, if you have been pulled over for failing to yield, then you will receive three points on your license if you were to plead guilty and simply pay the fine. Points tend to range from three to six points for careless driving to failing to leave your contact information following a crash in the State of Florida.

When points add up, they will have many future consequences. For example, if you receive twelve points within one year, then your license will be suspended for up to thirty days. If you receive eighteen points in the span of eighteen months or twenty-four points in the span of thirty-six months, then your license will also be suspended in the State of Florida.

Points for Common Traffic Violations in St. Petersburg, FL.

The points that you will receive often vary depending on the nature and severity of the traffic violation in question. The most common examples of points are specified in the list of violations below:

• Speeding – 3 points.
• Careless Driving – 3 points.
• Failure to Stop at Steady Red Signal – 3 points.
• Too Fast for Conditions – 3 points.
• Reckless Driving – 4 points.
• Failure to Obey Traffic Control Signal – 4 points.

If you would like to see a complete list of traffic violations and the associated points, check out Florida’s Uniform Traffic Citation Manual.

Speeding Tickets in St. Petersburg, FL.

There are two types of speed limits recognized by the State of Florida: basic and absolute. An absolute speed limit is known as a posted maximum, while a basic speed limit restricts drivers from traveling at speed higher than what is considered reasonable under certain conditions and circumstances.

The penalties for a speeding ticket often vary by county, and it will normally depend on the speed of the driver and the type of violation that they committed.

Basic Speeding Violation

• A fine between $125 and $370 ($500 maximum).
• A judge can order you to attend traffic school.
• 3 points on your driver’s license.

Absolute Speeding Violation

• A fine between $125 and $370 ($500 maximum).
• A judge can order you to attend traffic school.
• 3 or 4 points on your driver’s license (more than 50 miles per hour over the speed limit).

Speeding in a Construction or School Zone Violation

• A fine between $150 and $620 ($1,000 maximum).
• A judge can order you to attend traffic school.
• 3 or 4 points on your driver’s license (more than 50 miles per hour over the speed limit).

It is also important to note that you cannot go to traffic school in the event that you are caught speeding at 30 miles per hour or more above the speed limit in the State of Florida.

Why Choose The Law Place for Your Traffic Ticket in St. Petersburg?

When facing a traffic ticket in St. Petersburg, choosing the right legal representation can make a significant difference. The Law Place stands out as a premier choice for several reasons:

• Extensive Experience – With over seventy-five years of collective experience, our team at The Law Place has a deep understanding of traffic law nuances and court procedures in St. Petersburg.
• Proven Track Record – We pride ourselves on a high success rate, having successfully defended numerous clients against various traffic violations, from speeding to more serious offenses like DUI.
• Personalized Attention – Each case is unique, and we provide personalized legal strategies tailored to the specific details of your case.
• Client-Centric Approach – Our commitment to client satisfaction is unwavering. We keep you informed at every step and ensure that your rights are vigorously defended.
• Local Knowledge – Our familiarity with St. Petersburg’s traffic laws and local court system gives us an edge in effectively navigating your case.

Choosing The Law Place means opting for a law firm that combines experience, skill, and a client-focused approach to deliver the best possible outcome for your traffic ticket case.

Understanding Traffic Laws in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg’s traffic laws are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all road users. Here’s an overview of key regulations:

• Speed Limits – These vary depending on the area, with specific limits set for residential zones, school zones, and highways.
• DUI Laws – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited, with severe penalties for offenders.
• Seat Belt Laws – Wearing a seat belt is mandatory for all drivers and passengers.
• Cell Phone Use – Texting while driving is illegal, and St. Petersburg enforces distracted driving laws to prevent accidents.
• Right-of-Way Rules – These laws govern how drivers should yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles in various traffic scenarios.

Understanding these laws is crucial for all drivers in St. Petersburg to avoid violations and ensure road safety.

Types of Traffic Violations and Penalties in St. Petersburg

Traffic violations in St. Petersburg range from minor infractions to severe offenses, each carrying specific penalties:

• Minor Violations – These include offenses like minor speeding or failing to signal. Penalties typically involve fines and points on your driving record.
• Major Violations – These are more serious and include reckless driving, DUI, or hit-and-run incidents. Penalties can include heavy fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
• Non-Moving Violations – These usually involve parking violations or issues with vehicle documentation. Penalties generally include fines.
• Points System – Florida’s points system adds points to your license for various violations. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension.
• Insurance Impact – Certain violations can lead to increased insurance premiums.

Understanding the types of violations and their corresponding penalties is essential for drivers in St. Petersburg to make informed decisions and seek appropriate legal assistance when needed.

Stop Sign and Red Light Tickets in St. Petersburg, FL.

A driver must come to a complete stop before the marked line, entering the crosswalk near the side of an intersection or entering the intersection itself when they are at a stop sign or a red light. The penalties will vary depending on the type of stop sign or red light violation.

Running a Red Light

• A fine between $250 and $280 ($500 maximum).
• 3 or 4 points on your driver’s license (depending on the circumstances).

Running a Stop Sign

• A fine between $150 and $190 ($500 maximum).
• 3 points on your driver’s license.

Distracted Driving Tickets in St. Petersburg, FL.

The distracted driving law restricts drivers from texting while on the road in the State of Florida. Distracted driving is considered a secondary violation, which means that a police officer must have another reason (such as speeding) in order to pull you over.

Distracted Driving First Offense

• A fine between $100 and $200.
• No points.

Distracted Driving Second Offense

• A fine between $100 and $200.
• 3 points on your driving license.

Distracted Driving Second Offense in a School Zone

• A fine between $100 and $200.
• 3 points on your driving license.

Driving Without a License Tickets in St. Petersburg, FL.

Every driver must have a valid license in their name when they are on the road in St. Petersburg. The penalties will depend on the circumstances surrounding the violation:

Driving Without a Valid License

• A fine between $100 and $120 ($500 maximum).
• No points.
• No jail time.

Driving Without a License in Possession

• A fine of $10 (dismissal fee with proof of valid license).
• No points.
• Spending up to 60 days in jail.

Driving With a Suspended or Revoked License First Offense

• A fine of $500 maximum.
• No points.
• Spending up to 60 days in jail.

Driving With a Suspended or Revoked License Second Offense

• A fine of $1,000 maximum.
• No points.
• Speeding up to 1 year in jail.

Driving With a Suspended or Revoked License Third or Subsequent Offense

• A fine of $5,000 maximum.
• No points.
• Speeding up to 5 years in jail.
• This is classed as a felony offense.

Traffic Ticket Requiring a Mandatory Court Appearance in St. Petersburg, FL.

You might have to make an appearance in court, even though a police officer issued you a civil infraction in St. Petersburg. If you are ordered to make an appearance in court following a traffic violation, then be aware that it is a serious traffic infraction.

Florida Statute 318.19 explains the traffic infractions that require people to make a mandatory appearance in court:

• A traffic infraction that resulted in an accident that caused ‘serious bodily injury.’
• A traffic infraction that results in an accident that led to the death of another person.
• A traffic infraction for a failure to stop near a school bus where children are present.
• A traffic infraction for loads from vehicle dropping, falling, shifting, or blowing away.
• A traffic infraction for a speeding ticket above 30 miles per hour over the speed limit.

The Most Common Traffic Tickets Issued in St. Petersburg, FL.

Police officers can issue traffic citations for a number of different offenses in the State of Florida. The Annual Uniform Traffic Citation Report revealed the most common traffic tickets issued in the year 2018 as:

• Speeding violation tickets.
• Careless driving tickets.
• Stop sign violation tickets.
• Improper lane change tickets.
• Toll violation tickets.
• Red light camera tickets.
• Driving with a suspended or revoked license tickets.

How to Fight a Traffic Ticket in St. Petersburg, FL.

You will always have the option to challenge a traffic ticket in the State of Florida. It is ultimately up to you to decide if you want to fight the ticket or not, but it is worth checking the status of your ticket. There will be a list of instructions on your ticket that will tell you how to initiate a dispute. If you are ready to fight the traffic ticket, then we strongly recommend that you seek legal advice from a top-rated traffic ticket attorney from The Law Place. We will help you to develop a strong case and get your ticket dismissed no matter what.

The Impact of Traffic Violations on Your Record

Traffic violations can have a lasting impact on your driving record, affecting you long after the incident. Each violation, especially moving violations like speeding or reckless driving, typically adds points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to consequences such as increased insurance premiums, license suspension, or even revocation in severe cases.

Insurance companies often view drivers with multiple traffic violations as high-risk, which can lead to higher insurance rates. Some violations, like DUIs, can dramatically increase your insurance costs and may require you to carry SR-22 insurance, a policy for high-risk drivers, which is more expensive than standard coverage.

Moreover, a history of traffic violations can affect your future employment opportunities, especially if driving is a significant part of the job. Employers often check driving records and may be hesitant to hire someone with a history of traffic infractions.

The Importance of Legal Representation in Traffic Cases

Legal representation in traffic violation cases is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, an experienced attorney understands the complexities of traffic laws and can navigate the legal system more effectively than someone without legal training. They can identify legal technicalities and defenses that may not be apparent to the average person.

Secondly, legal representation is vital in minimizing the potential consequences of a traffic violation. A skilled lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, lower fines, or even get the ticket dismissed, depending on the circumstances. This is particularly important in cases that could result in significant fines, points on your license, or even jail time.

Lastly, having legal representation can alleviate the stress and uncertainty of handling a traffic case on your own. An attorney takes on the burden of managing your case, allowing you to focus on your daily life without the added pressure of legal proceedings.

FAQ Section

What are the common traffic offenses in St. Petersburg?

Traffic offenses in St. Petersburg range from minor infractions like speeding to more serious offenses such as reckless driving or DUI. Each offense carries its own set of penalties and implications.

How do traffic infractions differ from criminal charges?

Traffic infractions are typically minor violations like speeding or running a stop sign and usually result in fines or points on your license. Criminal charges, on the other hand, are more serious offenses like DUI or hit-and-run and can lead to arrest, significant fines, and even jail time.

What role does the state attorney’s office play in traffic cases?

The state attorney’s office represents the state in prosecuting traffic cases. They work with the state prosecutor to bring charges against individuals accused of traffic offenses and criminal charges in traffic court.

Can you help with Pinellas County traffic cases?

Yes, our attorneys have extensive experience in handling Pinellas County traffic cases, including both minor infractions and more serious offenses. We understand the local traffic court system and can provide effective legal representation.

What should I expect in traffic court?

In traffic court, your case will be heard by a judge or magistrate. The state prosecutor from the state attorney’s office will present the case against you. With legal representation, you can contest the charges, present evidence, and argue for reduced penalties or dismissal.

Why is legal representation important in traffic cases?

Legal representation is crucial as attorneys understand the legal system, can negotiate with the state prosecutor, and can present possible defenses on your behalf. This can lead to better outcomes, such as reduced penalties or case dismissal.

How can traffic offenses lead to increased insurance premiums?

Convictions for traffic offenses often result in increased insurance premiums as insurance companies view these as indicators of risky driving behavior. This can significantly raise your insurance rate over time.

What should I do if I receive a ticket for passing a school bus?

If you receive a ticket for improperly passing a school bus, it’s important to seek legal advice. This offense is taken seriously due to the safety risks involved, and legal representation can help in reducing the penalties or contesting the charge.

Are office visits necessary for hiring an attorney for a traffic ticket?

While office visits can be helpful, they are not always necessary. Many law firms, including ours, offer consultations over the phone or virtually, making it convenient for clients to get legal advice.

What are some possible defenses for a traffic ticket?

Possible defenses for a traffic ticket can include challenging the accuracy of the evidence, proving a lack of intent, or demonstrating extenuating circumstances. Each case is unique, and the defense strategy will depend on the specific details of your case.

How can a conviction impact my insurance rate in Hillsborough County?

In Hillsborough County, as in other areas, a conviction for a traffic offense can lead to insurance rate increases. This is because convictions are recorded on your driving record, which insurance companies review when determining rates.

What are the possible outcomes of a Petersburg traffic ticket case?

The possible outcomes of a Petersburg traffic ticket case can range from a complete dismissal of charges to reduced penalties or a conviction. The outcome will depend on the nature of the offense, the evidence presented, and the effectiveness of your legal representation.

Contact The Law Place Today in St. Petersburg, FL.

If you were issued a traffic ticket and you do not agree with it, then you can decide to challenge the ticket in St. Petersburg. The first step will be to get in touch with a traffic ticket attorney who can help you to beat the charges.

At The Law Place, we have over seventy-five years of combined experience and knowledge when it comes to tackling traffic violations in St. Petersburg and all over the State of Florida. Our law firm has helped hundreds of clients to get their tickets dismissed for a wide range of traffic violations.

If you want to avoid the fines and consequences that come with traffic tickets, then you should let us step in to do the work and handle the case. Our team of criminal defense lawyers will investigate your ticket, gather facts and information, challenge the legitimacy of the police officer’s actions, and build a strong defense strategy that will win your case in St. Petersburg.

If you call us today, a traffic ticket attorney will discuss the details of your case and explain how we can help you to get your ticket dismissed. The phone lines to our office are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week so that you can call us at a time that suits you.

Contact The Law Place to schedule a free consultation today, and a criminal defense lawyer will fight your traffic ticket in St. Petersburg.