Though traffic offenses are the most common in the criminal court system, they can result in inconvenience and considerable expense. The hours spent waiting in court are an inconvenience to the average person's work schedule. Also, a resulting increase in insurance rates can pose economic hardship to some. For instance, speeding tickets may result in up to four insurance points, giving the driving a 90% increase in automobile insurance rates. A charge of Driving While Impaired typically results in a 400% insurance rate increase.
Don't make the mistake of ignoring your impending court date. Failure to appear in court can result in a bench warrant for arrest. You are entitled to represent yourself in court, but there are several advantages to having legal representation. First, many people simply don't know what is appropriate to ask of the Assistant District Attorney in regards to a specific traffic infraction. Also, having an attorney lends credibility to your side of the story. Assistant District Attorneys usually give greater weight to extenuating or mitigating circumstances when they are conveyed by someone they recognize in a professional capacity. Third, hiring an attorney shows you take the charge seriously and respect the legal process. Finally, you won't have to waste a morning or afternoon waiting to speak the Assistant District Attorney and/or going before the judge.