Kings Mountain, NC Traffic Violation Lawyer

Kings Mountain Traffic Violation Attorney

A traffic ticket may feel like just a small setback, but the reality is that even minor violations can lead to lasting consequences. Fines, points on your record, and even rising insurance costs can come from even a single citation. If you’ve been stopped and handed a ticket, you shouldn’t accept the penalties without first consulting with a Kings Mountain, NC traffic violation lawyer.

At The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford, we can defend drivers like you. We understand the local courts, the procedures, and strategies that can make a real difference in your case.

Common Traffic Violations in Kings Mountain

Our team can defend clients against all types of traffic charges, including the most common in Kings Mountain:

• Speeding: Whether it is five miles or 25 miles over, speeding tickets can quickly add up to significant penalties.
• Reckless driving: This can be a serious misdemeanor offense that may come with hefty fines and potential jail time.
• Driving While License Revoked (DWLR): If you are caught driving on a suspended license, the process to get it reinstated can be even more difficult.
• Failure to appear: If you miss a court date for a traffic ticket, you could have your license automatically suspended.
• No insurance or registration violations
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) violations: Professional drivers can face harsher penalties and risk their livelihood.

The Point System in North Carolina

One of the most important reasons you should fight a traffic ticket is the North Carolina point system. When you pay a ticket and move on, you are pleading guilty. Each moving violation that you plead guilty to carries a certain number of points, and once you accumulate too many within a set period, your license can be suspended.

Accumulating 12 points in 3 years will result in the suspension of your license. For example, the most common traffic violations will add these points to your license:

• Speeding 10 mph over the speed limit = 3 points
• Reckless driving = 4 points
• Passing a stopped school bus = 5 points

Many insurance companies even use their own point systems, causing your premiums to increase drastically. What may seem like a quick payment on a ticket may cost you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in the long run.

What to Expect After Receiving a Ticket

If you have received a ticket in North Carolina, here is what usually happens:

1. You’re assigned a court date at the Cleveland County Courthouse.
2. You will decide whether to pay the ticket or fight. If you pay, you are admitting guilt, which can damage your driving record.
3. You hire a traffic attorney who can appear on your behalf and handle any negotiations with the prosecutor.
4. Your case is resolved with the support of your lawyer. This could mean your ticket was dismissed, reduced, or you pleaded guilty for an alternative outcome, such as traffic school.

How a Traffic Violation Lawyer Can Help

The skills to defend a traffic case are more than just showing up to court. Fighting a ticket requires preparation, local knowledge, and an understanding of the law. At The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford, we take the time to learn the details of your situation to build a tailored defense designed to secure the most positive outcome possible.

In many cases, a traffic ticket can be resolved without having to appear in court. This means less stress, less missed work, and more peace of mind.

About Brent D. Ratchford

Brent D. Ratchford is a Kings Mountain criminal defense attorney who focuses on providing dedicated and honest representation. He believes that everyone deserves a strong legal advocate, regardless of their legal troubles. Ratchford’s practice areas include criminal defense, traffic violations, expungements, and probation violations.

FAQs About Kings Mountain, NC Traffic Violation Law

Will a Traffic Ticket Affect My Insurance Rates?

Yes, a traffic ticket will likely cause your insurance rates to go up. North Carolina uses a Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP), which assigns points to a driver’s record for all moving violations and at-fault accidents. The severity of the violation will determine how many points you will have against your license, and the more points you accumulate, the higher your insurance premium may be. Your rates will be affected for three years after a violation.

Do I Have to Appear in Court for My Traffic Ticket?

Some minor offenses are often considered waivable offenses, and you can pay the fine online, by mail, or in person without having to appear in court. For more serious charges like reckless driving or excessive speeding, you might need to appear in court. Your traffic violation lawyer can help ensure you don’t miss any necessary court hearings.

Can a Lawyer Get My Ticket Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes, a lawyer can often help reduce or dismiss a traffic ticket. They can negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf, and you may not even need to appear in court. It is important to keep in mind that this is not guaranteed, but legal representation can have a positive impact on your chances for a more desirable resolution.

What Happens if I Ignore My Ticket or Fail to Appear in Court?

You should never ignore your ticket or miss any court appearances. The court may issue a Failure to Appear (FTA) notice, and your driver’s license can be indefinitely suspended by the DMV until your case is resolved. You could also face increased fines, more court fees, and it could escalate to a warrant for your arrest.

Take Your First Step Today With a Consultation

If you’ve been cited for a traffic violation in Kings Mountain, do not wait. The sooner you act, the more options you have for protecting your record and avoiding any unnecessary costs. A single ticket should not define your driving future, and with the right legal representation, it does not have to. Contact The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford for a consultation and hire a traffic violation lawyer who can fight on your behalf and protect your driving privileges.