Lawmakers put speed limits in place to protect everyone on the road. While 30 miles per hour might seem slow, a winding road up ahead or other conditions might be reasons drivers are directed to drive at a reduced speed. If a police officer pulls you over and issues a speeding ticket, there might be ways to beat the charge in court. However, you should not face a speeding ticket without knowing some strategies for challenging your citation.If you’re facing a citation for speeding in Maryland, the assistance of a skilled Maryland traffic defense attorney, such as Attorney Hillel Traub, can be advantageous to your case. He can present you with solutions for challenging the charge against you and protect your interests throughout the process.
How to Beat a Speeding Ticket in Maryland
When it comes to a speeding ticket, there are numerous actions you can take at the stop scene, before you go to court, at trial, and once a court reaches a verdict. Following these steps may aid your case.
At the Stop Scene
When a police officer pulls you over, there are two primary things you can do that may either reduce your chances of receiving a ticket or aid in your defense later.
- Be polite to the officer: If you are polite and cooperative, the officer may only give you a warning. Conversely, they may lessen the offense. For example, the officer may document you were going only 15 miles over instead of 25. Remember, being courteous does not guarantee the officer will let you off with a warning or reduce the penalty. However, cooperating with them may help your case if you take it to court.
- Document the scene before you leave: If the officer gives you a ticket, you should document the stop scene before you leave. For example, a bush or tree may have obstructed the speed limit sign, so you should photograph it. You should take photos of anything that you think may be beneficial.
Before You Go to Court
Once you receive a speeding ticket, there are many things you must do to increase your chances of beating the ticket.
- Hire a lawyer: You must hire a traffic defense attorney regardless of whether you choose a waiver hearing or trial. Hiring one may be your best chance of possibly receiving a favorable outcome.
- Prepare for court: With your attorney, prepare for the waiver hearing or trial. You will need to make a plan and create a robust defense.
During the Trial
If you take your case to trial, hope that the officer does not appear. If they do not, there is no additional evidence against you. In that case, the judge will likely dismiss the case, meaning you will not receive any fines or points.Follow these tips during the trial.
- Arrive early: Do not arrive at the courthouse at the start of your trial. Doing this may only worsen your case. Instead, arrive between 20 and 30 minutes before your trial begins. It’s always best for you to wait for the judge instead of the judge waiting for you.
- Present your case: Allow your attorney to present your case to the judge. They may raise questions about whether the officer adequately calibrated the radar gun or other issues relating to speed reading instruments.
After Court
Even if a judge convicts you of the ticket during the trial, there may be one more way to beat the ticket.
- Appeal to the Circuit Court: If the judge does not sentence you to probation, you may appeal to the Circuit Court within 30 days. If you appeal, the case will start over again in the Circuit Court before a different judge.
Speak to a Skilled Maryland Speeding Ticket Attorney
It is important to remember that there are ways to beat a speeding ticket in Maryland. However, hiring a traffic defense attorney is almost always necessary. You are likely unfamiliar with Maryland traffic laws, which may negatively impact your case. Instead, contact the Law Office of Hillel Traub.Attorney Hillel Traub is an experienced traffic attorney with more than 20 years of experience. As a former attorney for the Maryland MVA, he brings a unique perspective to cases that may give his clients an advantage. To schedule a free consultation with Attorney Traub, call (410) 709-6786 or complete our contact form today to schedule a free consultation with Attorney Traub.
