The stakes of an MVA hearing—potentially losing your driving privileges—remain unchanged, but the virtual format introduces new challenges that can make or break your case. From potential technical glitches to modified rules of evidence presentation, remote hearings conducted via Webex require specialized preparation that many drivers overlook until it’s too late.
At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we guide clients through the complexities of remote MVA hearings. With over 30 years of experience, including a former role as a lawyer for the MVA, attorney Hillel Traub understands both sides of these proceedings and can help you navigate this virtual environment effectively to protect your driving privileges.
- The Remote MVA Hearing Process
- Technical Preparation for Your Remote Hearing
- Preparing Your Case for a Remote Hearing
- Working with an Attorney for Your Remote Hearing
- Contact an Experienced Maryland MVA Hearing Attorney
The Remote MVA Hearing Process
Remote MVA hearings in Maryland operate similarly to in-person hearings but with the added element of video conferencing technology.
The Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) uses Webex for most MVA hearings. Typically, you’ll receive instructions for joining your hearing via email several days before your scheduled date. The hearing will include the administrative law judge, any representatives from the MVA, yourself, and your attorney if you have one.
These hearings follow a formal structure where you’ll be sworn in before providing testimony, the judge will explain the purpose of the hearing and the issues to be addressed, you or your attorney will present your case, the MVA representative may present opposing evidence or question your statements, and finally, the judge will make a ruling either immediately or by mail after the hearing.
Remote hearings carry the same legal weight as in-person proceedings, so treating them with appropriate seriousness is crucial to achieving a favorable outcome.
Technical Preparation for Your Remote Hearing
One of the most important aspects of a remote hearing is ensuring your technology works properly. Technical difficulties can disrupt your presentation and potentially harm your case.
Setting Up Your Equipment
Before your hearing date, make sure you have a reliable computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone, a stable internet connection (wired connections are more reliable than WiFi), the Webex application downloaded or access to Webex through your web browser, a quiet, well-lit location with a neutral background, and a phone as backup in case your video connection fails.
Test your equipment at least a day before your hearing to identify and resolve any issues. The Office of Administrative Hearings often provides testing opportunities or instructions for checking your setup.
During the Hearing
On the day of your hearing, connect to the Webex session at least 15 minutes early. This gives you time to resolve any unexpected technical issues. Keep your microphone muted when not speaking to reduce background noise, and speak clearly when addressing the judge or presenting your case.
Preparing Your Case for a Remote Hearing
The virtual format requires some adjustments to how you prepare and present your case.
Organizing Your Documentation
Documents play a crucial role in MVA hearings, but sharing them remotely requires preparation. Scan all physical documents to create digital versions, organize files in a logical order, use clear file names, be familiar with how to share documents through Webex, have physical copies available as backup, and submit any evidence to the MVA and judge before the hearing if required.
Your documentation might include driving records, medical certificates, completion certificates from alcohol or drug education programs, or evidence showing why your license should not be suspended or revoked.
Presenting Your Case Effectively
When presenting remotely, clear communication becomes even more important. Speak slowly and clearly, as audio may sometimes lag or cut out. Use concise statements rather than lengthy explanations, and reference specific document names when discussing evidence. Address the judge formally and professionally, and avoid interrupting others who are speaking.
Remember, non-verbal cues may be less visible in a virtual environment, so verbal clarity is essential.
Working with an Attorney for Your Remote Hearing
While you can represent yourself at an MVA hearing, having an experienced attorney significantly increases your chances of success.
An attorney familiar with MVA hearings can handle technical aspects of evidence presentation, understand which arguments are most likely to persuade the administrative law judge, prepare you for questions from the judge or MVA representatives, identify procedural issues that might support your case, and provide objective advice about the strengths and weaknesses of your position.
The remote format adds complexity to these hearings, making professional representation even more valuable.
Contact an Experienced Maryland MVA Hearing Attorney
Facing a remote MVA hearing can be intimidating, but proper preparation significantly improves your chances of success. Having professional guidance from an attorney who understands both the technical and legal aspects of remote hearings can make the difference between keeping and losing your driving privileges. Remember, paying your ticket is an admission of guilt, which can have long-lasting consequences for your driving record and insurance rates.
As a former attorney for the MVA with over 30 years of experience, Hillel Traub has represented hundreds of CDL drivers all across Maryland and understands the intricacies of these proceedings from both sides. Don’t risk your driving privileges by facing this complex process alone. For professional guidance through your remote MVA hearing, call us at (410) 220-6976 or reach out through our contact form.
When your license is revoked, it means your driving privileges have been terminated indefinitely, leaving you unable to operate a vehicle legally. Losing your driver’s license can feel like losing a piece of your independence and freedom, especially in Maryland, where the ability to drive is often necessary to get to work, school, and around town.
Regaining your driving privileges after a license revocation in Maryland is a complex and challenging process, and it is imperative you contact a traffic lawyer immediately upon receipt of your revocation notice. Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is here to help. With over 30 years of experience and a background in traffic law and license revocation cases, Attorney Traub can provide you with the guidance, support, and advocacy you need to traverse the reinstatement process.
- Why You Should Partner with a Maryland Traffic Violation Attorney for a Revoked License
- Get Help Reinstating Your Maryland Driver’s License with a Traffic Violation Attorney
Why You Should Partner with a Maryland Traffic Violation Attorney for a Revoked License
In Maryland, license revocation is the most severe penalty for certain traffic offenses, such as driving under the influence (DUI), or vehicular manslaughter. Reinstatement requirements typically include completing a mandatory suspension period, attending alcohol or drug education programs, paying fines, and meeting any other conditions imposed by the court or Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).
Here’s how a Maryland traffic violation attorney can assist you:
Legal Insight
An attorney specializing in traffic law and license revocation cases can provide invaluable legal proficiency and representation. They understand the complexities of Maryland’s traffic laws and the procedures for reinstating a revoked license. With their knowledge and experience, they can guide you through the process, advocate on your behalf, and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Navigating the Reinstatement Process
Reinstating a revoked license in Maryland involves navigating a maze of paperwork, deadlines, and requirements. An attorney can help you understand the steps involved in the reinstatement process and confirm you meet all necessary criteria. They can assist you in gathering required documentation, completing forms accurately, and submitting everything in a timely manner to expedite the process.
Representation at Hearings
If your license revocation case requires a hearing before the MVA or a court, having an attorney by your side is crucial. They can represent you at hearings, present evidence and arguments in your favor, and challenge any allegations or evidence presented by the prosecution. With their advocacy skills and knowledge of Maryland’s legal system, they can work to secure a favorable outcome and get you back on the road as soon as possible.
Negotiating Reduced Penalties
In some cases, an attorney may be able to negotiate with prosecutors or the MVA to reduce the penalties associated with your license revocation. This could involve plea bargaining for lesser charges, securing a restricted license that allows you to drive for specific purposes, or negotiating alternative penalties such as community service or alcohol treatment programs.
Get Help Reinstating Your Maryland Driver’s License with a Traffic Violation Attorney
Navigating the process of reinstating a revoked license is complex. From understanding the legal procedures to meeting strict requirements set by the MVA or the courts, the path to regaining your driving privileges can seem daunting. This is why partnering with The Law Office of Hillel Traub is essential. With Attorney Traub’s knowledge in traffic law and license revocation cases, he has what it takes to guide you through the reinstatement process effectively and work towards reclaiming your freedom on the road.
Contact Attorney Traub to schedule your free consultation today by calling (410) 220-6976 or filling out our contact form.
How an Out-of-State Violation Follows You Home
You might not think much about getting a traffic ticket in another state; however, Maryland is one of 45 states participating in the Driver License Compact, an agreement in which member states exchange information regarding licensing drivers, including information and procedures for reporting traffic offenses, convictions, and license suspensions. For example, if you are a Virginia driver who has received a citation for breaking a traffic law in Maryland, the state of Maryland will report the violation to your home state.
When you receive a traffic ticket in Maryland, ignoring it won’t make it go away and paying the fine is an admission of guilt. An attorney who dedicates his legal practice to resolving traffic charges in Baltimore and surrounding areas can take a number of measures to challenge your traffic ticket and help you minimize the amount of traveling you might have to do between states.
- The Driver License Compact
- The Reporting of Your Out-of-State Traffic Ticket
- How Does My Out-of-State Violation Affect My License?
- Get Help After an Out-of-State Traffic Violation
The Driver License Compact
The Driver License Compact, or DLC, operates under the mantra of “One Driver, One License, One Record.” The DLC aims to simplify licensing procedures between states. DLC member states agree to share licensing information with other member states, including information regarding traffic offenses by, convictions of, and administrative actions against out-of-state drivers.
States have just fifteen (15) days after being notified by the court of a conviction to report the traffic convictions of out-of-state drivers to the drivers’ home states. If the state in which you were charged for a traffic offense recommends the suspension of your license, your home state will likely impose a license suspension.
Because of Maryland’s participation in the DLC, you may face penalties in your home state for a traffic offense you allegedly committed in Maryland, which is why it may be necessary to employ the services of a Baltimore traffic attorney to resolve your out-of-state violation.
The Reporting of Your Out-of-State Traffic Ticket
In the state of Maryland, the Motor Vehicle Administration receives notifications about out-of-state traffic offenses and alerts the licensing authorities of other states about visitors’ violations. The report your home state may receive about your particular violation includes:
- A description of the violation
- The statute violated
- The court handling the violation
- The plea you entered
A Maryland traffic attorney who serves Baltimore and nearby locations will work to get your charges dismissed or reduced. The goal is for your ticket to have as little impact on your out-of-state license and driving record as possible.
How Does My Out-of-State Violation Affect My License?
Drivers from out-of-state who receive tickets in member states like Maryland may or may not incur points against their licenses for payable or minor traffic offenses. It depends on the laws of the particular home state. An attorney who fights traffic tickets in Maryland will make it his primary duty to mitigate the effects of your traffic ticket on your legal ability to drive in your home state.
Get Help After an Out-of-State Traffic Violation
Once the Maryland Vehicle Administration receives notice of your traffic violation, they will notify your home state’s driver license authority. Additionally, your car insurance company will likely discover the violation, which may affect your insurance rates. You can take measures to avoid the worst penalties by working with The Law Office of Hillel Traub, a Baltimore-based law firm resolving traffic issues throughout Baltimore and surrounding communities.
For a free consultation about your traffic violation in Baltimore or a nearby location, contact attorney Hillel Traub. With over 20 years of experience fighting traffic charges and a background as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, he is exceedingly qualified to take your case. Call (410) 220-6976 or complete our contact form.
Summer is a time for college students to catch up with friends and family and prepare for the upcoming school year. However, many college students also spend the summer at parties or bars. While there is nothing inherently wrong with drinking—as long as those drinking are over 21—some may have a lapse in judgment and get behind the wheel after a night of drinking.Driving under the influence (DUI) charges can significantly impact a person’s life, but it may be more devastating for college students. In addition to hefty fines or possible jail time, a DUI for a college student may have additional consequences, such as financial consequences, limited future academic opportunities, or expulsion from the institution. If you’re facing DUI charges in Maryland, protect your future today by contacting the Law Office of Hillel Traub.
Possible Expulsion or Suspension
Most colleges and universities have a code of conduct that all students must follow. In general, academic institutions expect students to follow all state and federal laws, in addition to any campus-specific rules. The penalties for violating the code of conduct may vary depending on the severity. However, your university may suspend you from classes for a DUI charge. For any subsequent charges, college officials may expel you.
Financial Consequences
Many scholarships are contingent upon students following all state laws and university policies. Otherwise, they may forfeit any scholarships, financial aid, or grants. Furthermore, the university may prohibit you from living in on-campus housing, forcing you to pay for an apartment or commute to campus from your home. Long-term, a DUI conviction may negatively impact your ability to find a well-paying job after college graduation.
Ruined Athletic Career
Depending on the university, a DUI may ruin a college athlete’s career. Every school has different policies regarding DUI charges or convictions, but it may lead to the athlete being suspended or kicked off the team. In addition to possibly missing the opportunity for a professional team to recruit them, a college athlete may lose their scholarship, making college unaffordable.
Limited Future Academic Opportunities
Even if your current school does not take disciplinary action against you, a DUI conviction may be a roadblock to your future academic career. Remember, a DUI will follow you for years since you must disclose it on applications to graduate schools and other types of higher education. Depending on the severity of your charge, law, nursing, medical, or pharmacy schools may even deny you admission.
Disqualification from Future Employment
Many employers perform background checks when reviewing applications, and having a DUI on your record may make it difficult to obtain employment after graduating from school. Additionally, some professional licenses require individuals to be free of a criminal record. Without the proper certification, you may not be eligible to obtain a specific job. While employers cannot discriminate against those with a criminal background, they may choose a candidate who does not have a criminal record in a competitive job market.
Contact a Maryland DUI Defense Attorney Today
There is much at stake when a college student faces DUI charges in Maryland. Attorney Hillel Traub is an experienced DUI defense attorney who understands the impacts a DUI conviction can have on your future. You can be confident that he will work hard to protect your academic standing and reputation. Don’t let a one-night mistake ruin your life. Instead, contact the Law Office of Hillel Traub today. To schedule a free consultation, call (410) 220-6976 or complete our contact form.
If you operate a commercial truck, you likely understand the importance of complying with weight restrictions and regulations. In Maryland, trucks that exceed weight limits can be subject to high fines and other penalties. If you have been cited for truck weight violations, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options. A Maryland traffic violations lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
All trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds are required to stop at a weigh station in Maryland. If truckers pass a scale without stopping, they will be required to return to the weigh station, undergo a thorough safety check, and receive a citation from Maryland State Police. Inspections may increase violations, and if the violations are severe, they may even render a truck out of service. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we will assess the details of your case and provide you with your best legal options.
- Why Do Truck Weight Limit Laws Exist?
- How a Maryland Traffic Lawyer Can Help Your Truck Weight Violation Case
- Contact a Truck Weight Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub Today
Why Do Truck Weight Limit Laws Exist?
In Maryland, trucks are subject to weight restrictions on both state and federal highways. The specific weight limits depend on a number of factors, such as the type of road, the number of axles on a truck, and the distance between axles. If a truck exceeds weight limits, it can cause damage to the roads and bridges and pose a safety risk to other drivers. As a result, law enforcement takes truck weight violations very seriously.
Weight violations can cause many more issues, including the following:
- Increased risk of tire blowouts
- Difficulty controlling speed
- Higher risk of rollovers
- Potential for cargo to become loose during transit
Additionally, vehicles such as U-Hauls are required to stop at weigh stations if they believe they are carrying over 10,000 pounds. However, only commercial vehicles are subject to added safety inspections.
How a Maryland Traffic Lawyer Can Help Your Truck Weight Violation Case
If you have been cited for a truck weight violation, a Maryland traffic lawyer can help you in several ways, including the following:
- Reviewing the citation: A traffic violations lawyer can help review the citation to ensure it was correctly issued and accurately reflects the alleged violation.
- Defending your case: If the citation was issued incorrectly or there are other issues with the case, a traffic violations lawyer can defend your case in court.
- Negotiating a settlement: In some cases, a traffic violations lawyer can negotiate a settlement to reduce or eliminate fines and other penalties.
- Helping you avoid future violations: A traffic violations lawyer can advise you on how to comply with weight restrictions and regulations to avoid future violations.
Even the most experienced truck driver may get a truck weight violation. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we know that fighting a citation can be an added stressor to your time and income. However, maintaining a clean CDL is imperative in your line of work, as violations can impede your ability to earn a living. We will help you protect your livelihood by fighting your weight violation on your behalf.
Contact a Truck Weight Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub Today
Truck weight violations can have serious consequences for commercial truck drivers, including fines and other penalties. Speak with the traffic violations lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub to understand your legal rights and options.
As a former lawyer for the MVA with over 30 years of experience, Attorney Hillel Traub may be able to reduce or eliminate fines and keep your driving record clean. Schedule a complimentary consultation by calling (410) 220-6976 or filling out our contact form.
A bench warrant is administered by a judge when a defendant disobeys the rules of the court. Most often, the violation is a result of the defendant failing to show up. There are many reasons why a person may not appear in court. Whether you did not have transportation to get to court or could not get child care for the date you were required to appear, a Maryland lawyer may be able to help with your bench warrant and failure to appear in court by filing a “Motion to Recall the Bench Warrant”.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a Maryland criminal defense law firm dedicated to ensuring that clients stay informed and educated on their best options after they have been issued a bench warrant. Attorney Hillel Traub is dedicated to protecting your rights and interests and will work to appeal the bench warrant put out against you.
- What Is a Motion to Recall the Bench Warrant?
- What Happens If You Ignore a Bench Warrant in Maryland?
- Contact a Maryland Defense Lawyer Today
What Is a Motion to Recall the Bench Warrant?
One way that Maryland lawyers can help with a bench warrant or failure to appear is by filing a Motion to Recall the Bench Warrant. Also referred to as a Motion to Quash, this motion requests that the court rescind the bench warrant and set a new court date in the near future. The best time to file this request after a bench warrant has been issued is before you are arrested. That is why it is important to retain the help of a trusted Maryland attorney as soon as possible.
While your lawyer cannot guarantee that the bench warrant will be repealed after a Motion to Quash has been filed, courts often respond favorably when a person has come forward on their own accord. The court will often opt to grant the motion, especially if your case offers a specific reason for your failure to appear that was out of your control. The reasons can include:
- Defective notice due to the wrong address
- Illness
- Family emergencies
To get help filing a Motion to Recall the Bench Warrant in Maryland, contact a trusted lawyer who has experience helping clients who have been issued a bench warrant due to their failure to appear in court.
What Happens If You Ignore a Bench Warrant in Maryland?
A bench warrant is serious and should not be ignored. Once a bench warrant has been issued, law enforcement has the right to arrest you at any time. When a person has a bench warrant, they may be arrested even if they are pulled over for a simple traffic infraction like speeding or having a tail light out on their vehicle. After being arrested, you will be transferred to the jurisdiction that issued the bench warrant where you may face a serious penalty. These penalties can include:
- A bail decision
- Being held in jail pending the new court date
To avoid facing any penalties or being arrested for a bench warrant, reach out to a Maryland lawyer who can help with your Motion to Recall the Bench Warrant.
Contact a Maryland Defense Lawyer Today
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a former lawyer of MVA and is educated on all matters concerning bench warrants in Maryland. He is dedicated to helping clients file a Motion to Quash in order to help them avoid an arrest or other penalties. To speak about your legal options with a top-rated Maryland lawyer, contact us or call (410) 220-6976 for a complimentary consultation.
How a DUI Can Affect your CDL in Maryland
DUI laws in Maryland are extremely strict for commercial drivers. Those who rely upon a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to make a living must abide by rigid federal regulations due to the nature of their vehicles. Part of these regulations holds them to a higher standard than non-commercial drivers when it comes to receiving a DUI citation.
If you are a commercial vehicle driver, for example, your legal BAC may not exceed 0.04, while the legal limit for everyone else is 0.08. All commercial drivers are treated as such even when they are off-duty; therefore, getting a DUI in your regular car can lead to strict penalties that can impact your job. If you get a DUI when operating a commercial vehicle, you are urged to consult a local CDL lawyer.
The DUI “Double Standard” for Commercial Drivers
Consider this: two friends agree to meet at a bar for drinks. One of them happens to be a semi-truck driver in Maryland while the other one works in construction. The semi-truck driver holds a commercial driver’s license while his friend does not. After their outing, they both head home in their personal vehicles.
On the way home, one of the friends exceeds the speed limit by a few miles per hour, triggering a nearby officer to conduct a traffic stop. During the stop, the officer asks him to blow into a breathalyzer. The result is 0.06. What happens next?
- The construction worker in this scenario would likely be free to go. He might be issued a citation for speeding but not DUI if he was not visibly impaired.
- The officer would likely arrest the truck driver instantly for a CDL violation.
Unfortunately, this is the reality commercial drivers face. A truck driver is treated as such even during his personal time. The fact that he did not drive the commercial vehicle at the time of the DUI stop did not deter the officer from issuing a DUI citation. Whether you are in your work vehicle or personal car, a breath test of above 0.04 will result in a DUI citation, and a DUI with a CDL will result in severe punishment.
DUI/DWI Penalties for Commercial Drivers in Maryland
A DUI is typically a misdemeanor offense that can lead to a period of incarceration, steep fines, community service, DUI school, and other penalties. Although non-commercial drivers may apply for a hardship license to get to and from work, this option does not exist for commercial drivers.
Commercial drivers have a tougher time than others when resolving a Maryland DUI. Extra penalties for CDL drivers include:
- CDL suspension for one full year
- No restricted driving privileges
- A second DUI conviction leads to the permanent loss of your CDL
- Difficulties being re-hired after the license suspension
- Increased insurance rates for all vehicles
A DUI conviction can result in the loss of your commercial driver’s license, but it doesn’t have to. A Baltimore CDL DUI lawyer who handles violations like DUI can fight the charge. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Motor Vehicle Administration, Hillel Traub has over 20 years of experience helping truck drivers in Baltimore obtain favorable results for their DUI cases. Call us today at (410) 220-6976 for a free consultation.
The State of Maryland has a responsibility to keep high-risk drivers off the road. As such, it has developed a point system in which drivers caught committing certain traffic offenses, such as speeding or running red lights, accumulate demerit points that work against their licenses. If a driver hits 12 points on his or her driving record in a two-year period or violates an alcohol restriction, he or she might face a license revocation.
A license revocation is more severe than a suspension, which may create more obstacles to get back on the road. If you’ve had your license revoked in Baltimore or a nearby location, there are certain measures you can take — such as working with a knowledgeable traffic attorney — that can help you regain your legal ability to drive.
- License Suspension vs Revocation in Maryland?
- Steps to Getting Your Revoked License Back in Maryland
- How Attorney Hillel Traub Can Get You Behind the Wheel
License Suspension vs Revocation in Maryland?
Many people often confuse the terms license “suspension” and license “revocation.” A license suspension is a temporary restriction of your driving privilege, meaning that, after you fulfill a specific demand, you can continue to drive with the previously-suspended license. This is much less serious than a revoked license.
Suspended License in Baltimore, MD
You might have had your license suspended for simple traffic offenses, failure to pay traffic tickets, accumulating too many points in a two-year period, or even a DUI charge. A definite license suspension ensures that, once the suspension period ends and you pay the required fees, your license will no longer be suspended. An indefinite suspension relies on you to take a specific action to lift the license suspension. Examples of these actions might be paying traffic tickets or child support.
Revoked License in Baltimore, MD
When your license is revoked, your license is void. If your license has been revoked in Baltimore, you will need to take steps to apply for a brand new license after a specified period of time. The amount of time you must wait varies by the number of license revocations.
- One revocation: 6-month waiting period
- Two revocations: 12-month waiting period
- Three revocations: 18-month waiting period
- Four or more revocations: 24-month waiting period
Working with a Baltimore traffic attorney may help you reduce the number of obstacles standing between you and your Maryland driver’s license.
Steps to Getting Your Revoked License Back in Maryland
The process for applying for a driver’s license after a revocation is a straightforward but lengthy process. You must meet the criteria for having your license reinstated to qualify. If you do, you may then contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration’s Driver’s Wellness & Safety Division (DW&S) and request to have your license reinstated. The DW&S Division will request the following information:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Current address
- Driver’s license number
Next, the MVA will review your driving record to check for any violations that may disqualify you. They will send a denial letter if they find issues with your driving record, or they will send an application form for a new license if they find no issues.
Lastly, you must complete the application and return it to the Driver’s Wellness & Safety Division with the required fee payment.
How Attorney Hillel Traub Can Get You Behind the Wheel
The Driver’s Wellness & Safety Division of the MVA may choose to deny your request to apply for a new driver’s license for a variety of reasons. An attorney like Hillel Traub is a critical asset to ensure the resolution of problems that can stand in the way of your license.
As a former Assistant General Attorney for the MVA, Hillel Traub has the skills necessary to advance your case. As a traffic lawyer in Baltimore, he has over twenty years of experience providing exceptional legal services to clients in Baltimore and surrounding areas. Contact The Law Office of Hillel Traub by calling (410) 220-6976 for a free consultation or complete our contact form.
How to get a Red Light Ticket Dismissed in Maryland
Most Maryland drivers have, at some point, received a citation for violating traffic laws. While some tickets may be warranted, it is not uncommon for traffic citations to result in costly and unexpected fines. Police officers and judges especially have little tolerance for red light offenses, as they endanger other drivers crossing intersections. A red light ticket can have a lasting effect if the driver fails to handle it correctly.
When considering ways to challenge your ticket, remember to work with a knowledgeable Baltimore traffic ticket lawyer who serves Baltimore and surrounding areas. An attorney can put up the ultimate fight to protect your driving record and seek the dismissal or reduction of pesky fines.
- OPTIONS FOR FIGHTING A RED LIGHT TICKET
- FIGHTING YOUR TRAFFIC TICKET IN COURT
- PROTECT YOUR LICENSE AND CONTACT A BALTIMORE TRAFFIC TICKET ATTORNEY TODAY
OPTIONS FOR FIGHTING A RED LIGHT TICKET
After receiving a citation for a Maryland traffic violation, your best chance of keeping a clean record and avoiding court fees is to work with an attorney. Together, you and your attorney may be able to take the following steps to challenge your red light traffic ticket.
- Find out whether you have a clean driving record. Drivers with prior moving violations, parking tickets, or accidents will not be able to fight a red light ticket unless they work with an attorney to resolve previous violations. Contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration to obtain a copy of your driving record.
- Understand the law. In Maryland, a vehicle that is in the intersection at the time the light changes to red is not violating the red light law. It is possible that the police officer witnessed the action from an angle that prevented him from making the right call. It may be possible to dispute the officer’s judgment in court.
- Attend the court date or hire an attorney to do so. A clean driving record shows that you are a responsible driver. Still, even good drivers make mistakes. You are more likely to receive leniency when you can prove that you have consistently maintained a clean record. Your attorney may be able to speak with the prosecuting attorney to seek a dismissal of the charges against you. Likewise, your ticket may be dismissed if the officer who issued it does not appear in court.
- Request a trial. You may not receive the outcome you would like on the date that you appear in court to fight the traffic ticket. In this case, request a trial and work with an experienced traffic ticket lawyer to represent you.
- Provide details of the incident. Is it possible that you had a good reason to run the red light for which the officer cited you? A judge who understands the specifics of the case may be doubtful about whether or not you deserved the citation. Some defenses may include:
FIGHTING YOUR TRAFFIC TICKET IN COURT
- Challenging the officer’s position. It’s possible that, from where the officer positioned himself, he could not correctly view the traffic signal.
- Crossing the intersection after the light changed for safety reasons. A driver who may be threatened by slick roads or a tailgater may state these facts to the judge. Your lawyer may support this defense with a photograph of the scene or witness testimony.
- Having an obstructed view. Large vehicles in front of the driver’s car may block the driver’s view of the traffic signal. It’s possible that the driver could not see the light until he had already moved past the traffic light.
PROTECT YOUR LICENSE AND CONTACT A BALTIMORE TRAFFIC TICKET ATTORNEY TODAY
A red light traffic ticket is a moving violation that may leave points on your license if you fail to take appropriate measures. The first of those measures should be hiring a reliable attorney who has experience challenging citations for traffic violations. Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub has dedicated a significant portion of his career to helping residents of the Baltimore metro area protect their driving privilege.
Having served as a former Assistant Attorney General for the Motor Vehicle Administration of Maryland, Hillel Traub has produced many successful results over his 25-year career. Find out how he can help you preserve your license by calling (410) 220-6976 or completing our contact form for a free consultation.
Fleeing and Eluding Law Enforcement After a Traffic Stop Legal Consequences in Maryland
Fleeing a traffic stop and eluding law enforcement is never a good idea. If you do go through with it, you may be facing serious legal issues when they catch up with you. Fortunately, an attorney may be able to help you with your case.
An attorney from The Law Office of Hillel Traub may be able to fight the charges by building a strong defense and challenging the prosecution. Reach out to our office today to learn more about how we can protect your rights following your charges.
- What is a Traffic Stop?
- Will I Be Arrested for Fleeing a Traffic Stop?
- Can I Lose My License for Eluding Law Enforcement in Maryland?
- Can a Lawyer Help Me After I Flee a Traffic Stop?
- Reach Out to The Law Office of Hillel Traub Today
What is a Traffic Stop?
A traffic stop occurs when law enforcement officers signal a driver to pull over their vehicle, usually due to a suspected violation of traffic laws. This can include speeding, running a red light, or any behavior that raises suspicion. During a traffic stop, officers may approach your vehicle to assess the situation and determine if further action is necessary. It is essential to remain calm and compliant during a traffic stop, as this can significantly influence the outcome.
In Maryland, traffic stops are generally initiated when officers observe a traffic violation or have reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. Once you are pulled over, the officer may ask for your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. It is your legal obligation to provide this information. Failing to comply can escalate the situation, potentially leading to charges of fleeing or eluding law enforcement.
Will I Be Arrested for Fleeing a Traffic Stop?
Whether you will be arrested for fleeing a traffic stop will depend on various factors, including the nature of your actions and the discretion of the law enforcement officer involved. If you choose to flee, officers may initiate a pursuit, and upon apprehension, you are likely to face arrest. The decision to arrest can also depend on the perceived threat level; for example, if you pose a danger to the public during your flight, arresting officers may be more inclined to take you into custody.
However, if you stop your vehicle shortly after fleeing, sometimes officers may exercise discretion and provide a warning rather than making an arrest. It’s important to note that attempting to flee can exacerbate the situation, leading to additional charges or harsher penalties. It is advisable to comply with law enforcement and consult with an attorney if you find yourself in a precarious situation.
Can I Lose My License for Eluding Law Enforcement in Maryland?
Eluding law enforcement can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license in Maryland. The Maryland Department of Transportation has strict policies regarding traffic violations, especially those involving fleeing from law enforcement. If you are convicted of fleeing or eluding, points may be added to your driving record, which can quickly accumulate and result in a suspension of your driving privileges.
The consequences can vary based on the specific circumstances of your case. For instance, if your actions during the pursuit were deemed reckless or endangered others, the penalties may be more severe. In some instances, you may even face an automatic license suspension upon conviction.
Can a Lawyer Help Me After I Flee a Traffic Stop?
Hiring an attorney can significantly benefit you if you flee a traffic stop. An experienced attorney can provide you with valuable guidance on your legal rights and options. They can help you understand the charges against you and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. An attorney can also negotiate on your behalf to potentially reduce penalties or explore plea options that may lessen the impact of the charges.
Having legal counsel can make a profound difference in the outcome of your case, potentially leading to a more favorable resolution. If you find yourself in a situation where you have fled a traffic stop, consider consulting an attorney to protect your rights and interests.
Reach Out to The Law Office of Hillel Traub Today
Running from the police often leads to more problems. Before you do anything else, contact a traffic violations lawyer to make sure that your rights are protected while trying to find the right way to work with the police to resolve this issue.
Give yourself the best chance at overcoming the charges by working with a reputable and skilled traffic violations lawyer. Call The Law Office of Hillel Traub at (410) 220-6976 or use our contact form.
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