Experienced Traffic Ticket Lawyer
in Madison, Georgia

traffic ticket attorney in Morgan County - Georgia

Traffic Violation Lawyer Serving Morgan County, GA

Hiring a traffic ticket attorney in Georgia is crucial if you’ve received a traffic ticket. Points on your license, increased insurance premiums, and even a suspended license are potential consequences, particularly if you’re a repeat offender or under 21. Commercial drivers, such as bus, taxi, Uber, Lyft, and truck drivers, may face the end of their livelihoods. Additionally, traffic tickets may be pretextual, leading to unfounded criminal charges of DUI or drug possession when the police make an unsubstantiated stop and discover drugs or an open container in the vehicle.

If you’re facing a traffic case in Georgia, it’s essential to consult with a traffic ticket attorney. Michael Fulcher Law has over 17 years of experience in traffic, criminal, and personal injury law, serving as a prosecutor, public defender, and defense counsel. We will fiercely defend your driving rights, honestly assess the strength of the case, and advise you on a course of action to protect your license and all your defenses in any criminal actions.

Table of Contents hide
1 Traffic Violation Lawyer Serving Morgan County, GA
2 Why Hire A Georgia Speeding & Traffic Ticket Attorney?
2.1 Georgia Traffic Code Title 50
3 When is a traffic ticket considered a misdemeanor in Georgia?
3.1 Reckless Driving
3.2 Driving with a Suspended License
3.3 Hit and Run
3.4 Aggressive Driving
3.5 Youth drivers traffic tickets
4 Can’t I just plead NOLO in Georgia?
5 Process for contesting a traffic ticket in Georgia
6 How does the license point system work in Georgia?
6.1 Traffic Violations That Have an Impact
7 Consequences of accumulating too many points on your drivers license
7.1 Reducing points on a Georgia driver’s license
8 Michael Fulcher Can Help With Your Traffic Ticket Case
9 Frequently Asked Questions
10 Contact a skilled traffic ticket attorney in Georgia
10.1 What are the most common traffic offenses that result in police pulling over motorists?
10.2 Would it be better if I just paid for my traffic ticket, and avoid the trouble?
10.3 What is the point of hiring an attorney if I still have to pay my fine?
10.4 Can a case be transferred to a higher Court?
10.5 How many points will be added to my driving record for a moving violation?
10.6 How does a DUI and traffic violation affect my commercial driver's license?
10.7 What happens to my out-of-state license with a Georgia traffic conviction?

Why Hire A Georgia Speeding & Traffic Ticket Attorney?

Receiving a traffic ticket in Morgan County, Georgia, can have more serious consequences than just paying a fine. Traffic violations—especially those issued at the scene of an accident—can lead to increased insurance rates, points on your driving record, and even license suspension. In Georgia, fault plays a crucial role in determining liability for personal injury claims, meaning a traffic citation could be used as evidence against you in a civil lawsuit.

If you are found at fault for an accident, you could face financial liability beyond your insurance coverage, including damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. An experienced Morgan County traffic ticket lawyer can help contest your citation, reduce penalties, and protect you from unnecessary legal and financial repercussions.

Before simply paying your ticket, consult a Georgia traffic attorney who understands the local courts and laws. With the right legal defense, you may be able to reduce or dismiss the charges, keeping your driving record clean and safeguarding your future.

Georgia Traffic Code Title 50

Title 40 under Georgia Traffic Law refers to a specific section of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) that encompasses the state’s regulations and laws related to motor vehicles and traffic. Title 40 of the OCGA covers a wide range of topics, including driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, rules of the road, traffic offenses, and penalties for violations. This title provides the legal framework that governs how individuals operate vehicles on Georgia’s roadways and the consequences for non-compliance with traffic laws.

Title 40 of the OCGA is an essential resource for both law enforcement officials and the general public, as it outlines the rules and regulations that help ensure safe and orderly traffic flow within the state. It addresses various aspects of traffic law, such as speed limits, traffic signals, DUI offenses, and more.

At Michael Fulcher Law, our speeding ticket lawyer knows how to approach defending traffic tickets with a broad view of protecting your driver’s license, further liability, and the financial burden of increased insurance premiums. We will defend you against all traffic charges:

A ticket issued at the scene of an accident will need to be contested as an overall strategy in a later criminal prosecution, personal injury, or wrongful death suit. Only a skilled and experienced Georgia traffic ticket attorney understands how traffic law intersects with criminal and personal injury law. We are ready to serve by fully defending your rights and freedoms.

When is a traffic ticket considered a misdemeanor in Georgia?

In Georgia, a traffic ticket is considered a misdemeanor when it involves certain serious traffic violations or criminal offenses. While most traffic violations in Georgia are classified as infractions or minor offenses, some can escalate to misdemeanor charges.

Here are common situations where a traffic ticket may be considered a misdemeanor in Georgia:

Driving Under the Influence (DUI):

One of the most well-known traffic-related misdemeanors in Georgia is DUI. If you are caught operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit, you can be charged with a misdemeanor DUI, which carries significant penalties, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving involves operating a vehicle in a manner that endangers people or property. It is often considered a misdemeanor in Georgia and can result in fines, points on your driving record, and, in some cases, jail time.

Driving with a Suspended License

If you are caught driving while your license is suspended or revoked, you can face misdemeanor charges. The penalties for this offense can include fines and additional license suspension.

Hit and Run

Leaving the scene of an accident without exchanging information or reporting the incident can lead to misdemeanor charges. Penalties may include fines, points on your driving record, and potential jail time, especially if there are injuries involved.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving behaviors, such as excessive speeding, aggressive lane changes, and road rage, can result in misdemeanor charges in Georgia. Consequences may include fines and points on your driving record.

Youth drivers traffic tickets

For drivers under 21 in Georgia, a misdemeanor traffic violation can lead to severe penalties, including a six-month license suspension for any offense carrying four or more points. Drivers under 18 face even stricter consequences, as accumulating just four total points results in the same suspension.

Beyond losing driving privileges, young drivers risk higher insurance rates and long-term impacts on their records. With the right legal defense, it may be possible to reduce penalties, prevent suspensions, and protect their future.

It’s important to note that misdemeanor traffic offenses in Georgia can have more severe consequences than minor traffic violations. If you are facing misdemeanor charges, it’s advisable to consult with Michael Fulcher who specializes in traffic law to understand your rights and options for defense.

Can’t I just plead NOLO in Georgia?

In contrast to popular belief, a “Nolo Contendere” plea does not prevent your ticket from appearing on your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). Anyone who searches your MVR will be able to see a record of your conviction. As long as you have not received similar tickets in the past five years, a Nolo Contendere will save you the points associated with the charge. It is important to note that driving points are not insurance points. A record can be exposed to your insurance company at any time. Typically, a Nolo Contendre plea will not help a commercial driver, out of state driver, or Georgia driver under 21 years old. Consult your Morgan County Traffic Violation Attorney to see if a “Nolo” plea is right for you.

Process for contesting a traffic ticket in Georgia

When contesting a traffic ticket in Georgia with the assistance Michael Fulcher, you can expect a structured and effective process designed to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how a traffic ticket lawyer in Georgia typically handles the situation:

  1. Consultation and Case Evaluation: Your first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified traffic ticket lawyer. During this initial meeting, you’ll discuss with Michael the details of your case, including the nature of the violation, the circumstances surrounding it, and any evidence you may have. The lawyer will evaluate the strength of your case and advise you on the best course of action.
  2. Review of Evidence: If you decide to contest the ticket, your lawyer will thoroughly review all available evidence, including the ticket itself, any photographic or video evidence, witness statements, and any other pertinent documentation. They will use this information to build a solid defense strategy.
  3. Legal Strategy Development: Based on the evidence and the specifics of your case, your lawyer will develop a tailored legal strategy. This strategy may include identifying potential legal defenses, examining procedural errors by law enforcement, or negotiating with the prosecutor to seek a reduced charge or penalty.
  4. Representation in Court: Your lawyer will represent you in court on the assigned date. They will present your case to the judge, argue on your behalf, and provide the evidence to support your defense. They are skilled at navigating Georgia’s traffic laws and court procedures to ensure your rights are protected.
  5. Negotiation: In some cases, your lawyer may negotiate with the prosecutor to reach a favorable resolution, such as a reduced charge or dismissal of the ticket. This negotiation can be crucial in minimizing the impact of the traffic violation on your record and insurance rates.
  6. Court Decision: After presenting your case, the judge will make a ruling. If the judge rules in your favor, the ticket may be dismissed, and you won’t face fines or points on your driving record. If the ruling is unfavorable, your lawyer will discuss the next steps, which may include appealing the decision or exploring other options.
  7. Post-Case Guidance: Your lawyer will provide guidance on any post-case requirements, such as completing defensive driving school, and help you understand the implications of the court’s decision on your driving record and insurance rates.

It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the procedures outlined on your ticket and seek legal guidance from Michael Fulcher, which will greatly improve your chances of a successful outcome.

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Facing legal challenges, whether it’s a DUI, criminal charge, or navigating traffic-related offenses, requires a skilled advocate. Turn to Morgan County’s Michael Fulcher Law for a blend of legal expertise and unwavering client service from a former Georgia prosecutor. Discover the optimal legal solution for your situation by calling our criminal defense law firm at (706) 438-1555 or reaching out online. Schedule your free consultation today and gain a clearer path forward.

How does the license point system work in Georgia?

Traffic Violations That Have an Impact

In Georgia, there is a “point system” that is usually permanent to a driver’s record after a driving offense or traffic ticket conviction.

The points vary based on the cited offenses and the driver’s age and usually, are given by the driver’s insurance company. The more points you have, the higher the premium.

Another factor for a driver’s license points is age. Certain offenses will automatically suspend a young driver’s license. That’s why it is crucial to contact your Morgan County Traffic Violation Attorney if you are under 21 years old.

Conviction Points
Aggressive Driving 6 Points
Reckless Driving 4 Points
Unlawful Passing School Bus 6 Points
Improper Passing on Hill or Curve 4 Points
Speeding 15 to 18 mph over the speed limit 2 Points
Speeding 19 to 23 mph over the speed limit 3 Points
Speeding 24 to 33 mph over the speed limit 4 Points
Speeding 34 mph or more over the speed limit 6 Points
Failure to obey traffic control device 3 Points
Failure to obey police officers 3 Points
Possessing an open container of an alcoholic beverage while driving 2 Points
Failure to adequately secure load, resulting in an accident 3 Points
1st offense of violation of child safety restraint 1 Point
2nd or subsequent offense of violation of child safety restraint 2 Points
Violation of usage of wireless device requirements 1 Points
Operating a vehicle while text messaging 1 Points
Improper use of designated travel lane 1 Points
All other moving violations 3 Points

Consequences of accumulating too many points on your drivers license

If a driver has received too many tickets or driving infractions, it is possible for them to lose their license or even be charged with a crime. In Morgan County, Georgia, a license will be suspended if a driver accumulates 15 points during any period of 2 years.

If the driver decides to continue driving regardless of their points, they can receive a charge for Driving While License Suspended, which can lead to time in jail.

It is important to know that the laws change when a driver is 21 or younger. Georgia’s point system is more restrictive in this case and it is recommended to hire a Morgan County Traffic Violation Attorney.

Reducing points on a Georgia driver’s license

A driver can reduce up to 7 points of their driving records once every 5 years. However, to qualify, the driver must have completed a certified Driver Improvement (defensive driving) course.

Michael Fulcher Can Help With Your Traffic Ticket Case

Hiring a driving ticket attorney in Georgia is essential when facing a traffic case. Experienced lawyers have the skills to contest the sobriety checkpoint, basis for the traffic stop, and analyze the police report. Representing yourself in court is not advisable since you will be up against experienced prosecutors and police officers who are used to testifying under oath.

It’s the role of a defense attorney to challenge the underlying validity of the traffic violations, seeking dismissal or lesser charges. Only seasoned lawyers know how to proceed to protect your driving privileges, your insurance policy, and your liberty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact a skilled traffic ticket attorney in Georgia

At Michael Fulcher Law, we know how to help when you get a traffic ticket. For a free and confidential consultation and to discuss your immediate needs, contact us online or call us at (706) 438-1555.

A police officer can pull over a driver for any perceived traffic law violation. Traffic laws are found in Title 40 of the Georgia Criminal Code. Once police have made a valid stop, they can investigate any crime committed in their presence. Therefore, open containers, firearms, or drugs visible inside a car can lead to further investigation. The most common reasons for a police stop are: speeding, failure to maintain lane, expired license plates or registration, reckless driving, following too closely, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, racing, aggressive driving, running a red light, operating a car while texting, and unlawful passing of a school bus.

Each of these violations can result in points on your license, and depending on the state of your driving record, suspension of driving privileges.

No, paying a traffic ticket in Georgia means pleading guilty to the offense. There are consequences that might be far-reaching, like probation, court costs, and fees, super speeder penalties, revocation or suspension of your driver’s license, points on your license, and information on any background check performed by a prospective employer or lender.

Your attorney can contest any mistakes in the ticket, even negotiating dismissal or reduction in charges. That dismissal or reduction in charges can mean a lot in terms of points on your license, and even your ability to drive. In addition, if there is accompanying criminal or civil liability, such a dismissal or reduction in charges can strengthen your defenses to any of these ancillary claims. An attorney can make appearances for you so that you are not missing work or school or family obligations.

Depending on the county or the offense, it is sometimes advisable to have your traffic ticket transferred to Superior Court. That decision is a complex one. To make the right decision requires an understanding of the local judges, and where you are most likely to get the best break, a realistic assessment of the strength of the prosecutor’s case, and the impact of a guilty plea or conviction on establishing criminal or civil liability. You need a skilled, and experienced lawyer to guide you through this important decision.

The number of points added to your driving record due to a moving violation in Georgia varies based on several factors, including the specific violation and your driving behavior. Here’s a breakdown of common traffic violations and the corresponding points they may incur on your record:

  1. Unlawful Passing of a School Bus: This serious violation can result in 6 points being added to your driving record.
  2. Reckless Driving and Improper Passing on a Hill or Curve: These offenses may lead to 4 points on your record.
  3. Possession of an Open Container of Alcohol While Driving and Failing to Adequately Secure a Load: These violations can result in 2 points being added to your driving record.
  4. Speeding-Related Offenses: The number of points for speeding offenses varies based on how many miles per hour over the speed limit you were driving. It can range from 2 to 6 points.

It’s crucial to understand that accumulating too many points on your driving record can lead to consequences such as license suspension or increased insurance premiums. Additionally, the points associated with each violation may change over time, so it’s essential to consult Michael Fulcher for the most up-to-date information on point values and potential penalties.

Commercial drivers are held to a higher, and stricter standard because of the potential for harm larger vehicles present to the public. Therefore, a DUI or other criminal traffic offense can gravely affect your ability to drive commercially.

Refusing a valid request to submit to breath, blood, or urine testing becomes a separate major traffic violation in Georgia for commercial drivers.

Major traffic violations can seriously affect your ability to drive commercially. A DUI or major traffic offense committed in a personal vehicle can still result in a suspended commercial license, even if the offense occurred outside of Georgia. Upon conviction the penalty is suspension of all driving licenses of all classes for a minimum of 1 year, even if the offense occurred in a non-commercial vehicle or out-of-state. A second conviction can result in lifetime disqualification.

The short answer is, it depends. Some traffic courts transmit every ticket disposition to Georgia’s Department of Driver Services, and they, in turn, may transmit it to your home state’s DMV. Most states, upon receiving evidence of an out-of-state conviction, will apply their rules to that offense, and you will have the same consequences as if you got the ticket there.

Since some states are dramatically stricter than Georgia, this can have serious consequences on your license, and insurance if you happen to reside in one of those states. Other courts will not transmit a disposition for certain reduced offenses, thereby saving you from having to deal with any consequences at home. Determining how to resolve a Georgia ticket so that it doesn’t cause problems back home is key to successfully handling these types of cases.

AMAZING WORK

“Mr. Fulcher has been tremendously helpful with my case. Since hiring him he has consistently returned my calls as quickly as he can. We discussed an ideal outcome, and I set about doing exactly as he said. Following his advice we were able to get a very favorable outcome. He is always quick to answer any questions, and has stayed very engaged with me throughout this ordeal. Michael provides excellent counsel, and I would recommend him to anyone!”

— TOM

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