Bigger & Harman - August 2023

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE MISSION

Thanks to your 61 referrals in July, we were able to donate $1,220 to fight human trafficking. To learn more about International Justice Mission, please go to IJM.org. MISSION: To protect the poor from violence by rescuing victims, bringing the criminals to justice, restoring survivors to safety and strength, and helping local law enforcement build a safe future that lasts. Our long-term vision is to rescue millions, protect half a billion, and make justice for the poor unstoppable.

When we work with clients, we want to know every detail about their situation. As we discover more about the events leading up to the traffic citation, we also learn about myths many people believe about the law. We’ve heard a handful of misconceptions about traffic tickets over the years, many of which have caused confusion and unnecessary legal trouble.

Let’s shed some light on the top four traffic ticket misconceptions that could be causing unwanted stress.

MYTH NO. 1: SIGNING A TICKET IS AN ADMISSION OF GUILT. Many believe you’re admitting guilt if you sign a traffic ticket — but it’s not true! By signing your citation, you promise to appear in court to resolve your ticket. It’s a legally binding agreement with serious consequences if you fail to appear in court to settle your case. MYTH NO. 2: A RADAR DEVICE MALFUNCTION WILL LEAD TO AN AUTOMATIC DISMISSAL. In our article about fighting speeding tickets, we mention a strategy we use, arguing the radar gun wasn’t calibrated correctly or didn’t work properly. While this method can work in some cases , it doesn’t mean it works for all cases . The strength of this argument depends on the other evidence surrounding your circumstance. Furthermore, you also don’t want to argue this point alone — it’s best to have a traffic attorney use this defense because we understand how to use the records in your favor and address the court. MYTH NO. 3: IT’S YOUR WORD WILL NEVER PREVAIL AGAINST THE POLICE OFFICER’S. While it may be uncomfortable to challenge what law enforcement says, you have a right to challenge their version of events in court. With the help of an attorney, they can usually find flaws in the officer’s testimony or evidence that can help your case. Although the judge may consider the officer’s statements more credible than yours, your attorney may still be able to create reasonable doubt regarding your guilt. MYTH NO. 4: HIRING AN ATTORNEY IS TOO EXPENSIVE. If you calculate how much you will spend if you pay the fine, cover court fees, and the amount your insurance will go up, you’re better off hiring an attorney!

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

–PHILIPPIANS 4:13

When you use Bigger & Harman, we can help you save time and money. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for all your traffic court needs.

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