Traffic Offenses
Traffic offenses can have serious repercussions, affecting your driving record, insurance rates, and even leading to jail time. At Mark Caldwell Law, we understand the complexities of traffic laws and are committed to defending clients against a wide range of traffic offenses they may be charged with. Common infractions that could be deemed as traffic violations include:
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Driving without a valid license or with a suspended license
- DUI/DWI (Driving Under the Influence)
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Failing to yield
- Improper lane changes
- Texting while driving
This is attorney Mark Caldwell and I’m here to discuss with you your options if you’re charged with a traffic offense. Now there’s misdemeanor and there’s civil infraction traffic offenses. The typical misdemeanor traffic offense that I represent would be a driving while licensed suspended. The typical civil infraction offense would be a speeding ticket.
Now with the driving while licensed suspended, usually someone’s suspended because they have two drunk drivings within seven years or they have three drunk drivings within 10. If that’s the case with you, and you want to get your license back, then I have to get that charge reduced to a zero point non abstracted offense, which would be allowing an unlicensed person to drive.
If I cannot get that reduced, then it kicks out your eligibility to get your license by one year or five years, depending on how many drunk drivings you’ve had. And usually a prosecutor is willing to give me the reduction if I tell the prosecutor that you’ve hired me to get your license back. And if that’s the case and we get the reduction to allowing an unlicensed person to drive there’s typically no probation involved with that. No jail, it’s just a $200 fine.
If it is a speeding ticket, then the goal would be trying to get the ticket reduced down whatever point, So it’s a four point speeding ticket, the goal would be trying to get zero to two points. If it’s a two point speeding ticket, the goal would be to try to get it to zero points. Zero point civil infraction that I really like to get it down to would be impeding traffic. That’s zero points, like I just said, and it’s not sent over to the Secretary of State. It’s not abstracted, so your insurance will never find out about it. And unless there’s an accident, if there’s an accident and you make a claim, then your insurance will find out about it and your insurance will go up.
These offenses can quickly escalate from minor infractions to significant legal issues, making it essential to have a skilled traffic offense lawyer on your side.
The Criminal Defense Process for Traffic Charges in West Michigan
Navigating the legal system for traffic violations in Michigan requires specialized knowledge and a strategic approach. Here’s how the process works when you choose Mark Caldwell as your traffic offense lawyer:
We start with a free, confidential consultation to discuss the details of your traffic violation. This meeting helps us understand your case and provide an overview of your legal options.
Our team conducts a thorough investigation of your case, including reviewing traffic tickets, police reports, and any available evidence. This detailed evaluation enables us to build a strong defense strategy.
From court appearances to negotiating with prosecutors, we represent you throughout the entire legal process. Our deep understanding of the legal landscape in Kent, Ottawa, Allegan, Mecosta, Muskegon, Newaygo, Ionia, Oceana, Osceola, and Barry County ensures effective advocacy.
Whether negotiating reduced penalties or defending you aggressively in court, our priority is to achieve the most favorable outcome. We keep you informed at every stage, ensuring clear communication and transparency.
How Mark Caldwell Helps His Clients Succeed
Choosing Mark Caldwell as your traffic offense lawyer provides numerous benefits. Here are four key ways we help our clients succeed:
If you’re facing traffic violations and need a traffic offense lawyer in Michigan, Mark Caldwell Law is here to help. Contact us today at (616) 915-6576 or email mark@markmcaldwell.com. Our office is conveniently located at 161 Ottawa Ave NW Suite 403 A, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and work towards a brighter future.