Brown & Crouppen does not handle traffic tickets but we put together some information you might find helpful.
People frequently want traffic tickets to stay off of their record. This is usually for two reasons. First, it keeps your insurance rates down and second, with driving convictions come points. If you accumulate too many points you can lose your license. In some circumstances, even a single ticket could result in the loss of your license.
If You are Pulled Over
First, if you are pulled over by a police officer, don't admit to any violation. Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty. It's not uncommon for a law enforcement officer to ask, "Do you know why I pulled you over?" Don't fall for this trap. Answer politely, "No, officer, how may I help you?"
Next, be polite. Don't give a police officer a reason to recall your encounter with him or her. Hostility towards the officer could lead to additional charges including your arrest.
After you receive the ticket, you can either contact a traffic lawyer or you may attempt to handle the matter on your own. Either way, NEVER IGNORE your violation or a warrant may be issued for your arrest.
Why Get a Lawyer At All?
Remember, even a single ticket may increase your insurance rates. Generally, the hiring of a traffic lawyer is usually not very expensive and a good use of your money. Also, know that if you just pay your fine the conviction will remain on your license for 3 years and may only be removed after 3 years with no other violations.
Hiring an attorney has advantages. Lawyers understand the law. They can go to trial if you are contesting the ticket. They can negotiate with the prosecutor to try for a favorable outcome for you. In many (but not all) instances, they can go to court in your place, so you will not need to appear.
Representing Yourself
Representing yourself without an attorney is called "pro se." ("for oneself.") Should you do it yourself? That is up to you. Generally speaking, the more serious the violation, the more you should consider hiring an attorney. Keep in mind that many courts do not allow pro se defendants to speak to the prosecutor to request a plea bargain.
If you go to your first court appearance without an attorney, the judge will ask you if you plan to hire an attorney. If you say yes, the court will continue the case to give you the time to get a lawyer.
If you answer no, you will be asked if you plead guilty or not guilty. If you plead not guilty you will likely be given a date to return for trial. Generally speaking, unless you plead guilty, the court will not take the time during your plea to hear your explanation of the case. Your side of the story is reserved for trial.
How to Find an Attorney?
- Talk to friends and family.
- Call a referral service. Missouri has three lawyer referral services:
- In St. Louis, call the St. Louis Metropolitan Bar Lawyer Referral Service at 314-621-6681.
- In Springfield, call the Springfield Metropolitan Bar at 417-831-2783.
- For the rest of Missouri, call the Missouri Bar Lawyer Referral Service provide at: 573-636-3635.
- For another state, the Missouri Bar has contact information available for other states' referral services at 573-636-3635.
Whether you have an attorney or not, always dress appropriately for court and get there early.
