Traffic Violation Penalties

Traffic Violation Penalties in Islip

Traffic violation penalties in Islip can be both expensive and inconvenient. Of course, you have to pay a fine if you are convicted, but you can also have your license suspended and potentially be required to attend a driver’s education class. If you successfully defend yourself against the charges, it can make your life easier both today and in the future. Let a skilled traffic defense attorney at the Law Office of Michael A. Schillinger defend your rights and protect your record in traffic court.

Common Penalties for Traffic Tickets

Outside of fines, the most common penalty for moving violations is points on your license. Under the New York State Driver Point System, even a simple speeding violation can put you one ticket away from a license suspension. Both the fine and the number of points a person receives depend on how much over the speed limit they were accused of going. For example, a conviction of traveling 21 to 30 miles per hour over the limit may result in six points, placing you in danger of a potential license suspension.

In Islip, other types of traffic violations also carry significant fines and points that could raise your insurance rates and put your license in jeopardy. Many moving violations, such as running a stop sign or not yielding to a pedestrian when required by law, carry three points.

Can You Fight a Traffic Ticket?

You can fight a ticket, and many drivers do so successfully. The money and potential inconvenience of moving violation penalties make it a worthwhile investment to hire a traffic defense lawyer from the Law Office of Michael A. Schillinger for your case in Islip.

Most traffic matters are handled through the Suffolk County Traffic & Parking Violations Agency (SCTPVA). The first step after you receive a traffic summons is pleading not guilty. It is critical not to simply plead guilty, because if you do, you will be agreeing to allow the Court to impose whatever fines and penalties it deems fit. Instead, by pleading not guilty, you are able to fight the ticket. Mike Schillinger is an experienced traffic court attorney who can then conference with the prosecutor and the court, and try to work out a favorable resolution for you. If, for some reason, a favorable resolution cannot be reached, then we could discuss potentially going to trial.

How Can a Lawyer Help You Fight a Traffic Offense?

Having an experienced attorney often improves your chances of a favorable outcome and can sometimes spare you from having to appear in court.

A lawyer brings legal knowledge, negotiation skills, and familiarity with the local court system, and can help you in many ways, including:

  • Protecting your driving record to help prevent insurance rate hikes
  • Appearing on your behalf in court, saving you time and avoiding missed work
  • Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges, minimize fines, or avoid license points
  • Spotting weaknesses in the case, such as faulty radar readings, incomplete officer notes, or procedural errors
  • Advising on long-term consequences, like the Driver Responsibility Assessment fee, or a potential license suspension or revocation

In short, a lawyer can help reduce the potential costs and damage to your license, sometimes even getting the ticket dismissed entirely. Attorneys are trained to spot things you can easily miss when facing Islip traffic charges, and are often able to find creative ways to get you a better resolution.

Contact an Islip Lawyer About Traffic Violation Penalties Today

Do not face traffic violation penalties in Islip alone. Whether it is points on your license, raised insurance rates, or threatened driving privileges, The Law Office of Michael A. Schillinger is ready to fight for you. We know how to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and work toward reduced charges or outright dismissal. Let us protect your rights and driving record. Call today for a consultation and put a knowledgeable local defense attorney on your side.