Traffic Violation Attorneys in Lawrenceville, GA

How Georgia's License Points System Works

Points are a part of a ticket that sneaks up on people. When you're convicted of a moving violation, the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) adds points to your record.

Speeding earns two points at 15 to 18 mph over the limit, three points at 19 to 23 over, four points at 24 to 33 over, and six points at 34 or more mph over. Reckless driving carries four points, and aggressive driving carries six.

For drivers 21 and older, 15 points within 24 months can lead to a license suspension. Younger drivers face much stricter limits and can face a suspension at far fewer points. DDS also lets drivers reduce up to seven points by completing an approved defensive driving course, but only once every five years.

Georgia's Super Speeder Law

Some speeding tickets come with a bill from the state in addition to the court fine.

Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-189, a driver convicted of going 75 mph or more on a two-lane road, or 85 mph or more on any road or highway, is classified as a super speeder. DDS then collects an extra $200 fee. If it isn't paid within 120 days of notice, the license can be suspended, and a $50 reinstatement fee applies.

Why Paying the Ticket Isn't Always the Easy Way Out

Paying seems simple, and for a minor ticket, it may be the right call. Before you do, it helps to know what a conviction can cost. 

It may mean:

• Points on your license that add up over time
• Higher car insurance rates
• A conviction on your record for more serious offenses
• A possible license suspension
• Extra consequences for commercial drivers, who face stricter rules
• A report to your home state if you're licensed elsewhere, since Georgia generally shares convictions with other states

Where Traffic Cases Are Heard in Gwinnett County

Your ticket tells you where to go, and it matters because the courts work a little differently.

Most traffic citations in Gwinnett County are handled in Recorder's Court, with the Solicitor's Office prosecuting them. Citations written by city officers may go to a municipal court, such as Lawrenceville Municipal Court on South Clayton Street. Some traffic cases can be moved to the State Court of Gwinnett County for a jury trial. Always check your citation for the court name and date.

Ways a Traffic Case May Be Resolved

The right approach depends on the charge, the evidence, and your driving history. Options may include:

• Dismissal, when the officer's case has problems or the evidence doesn't hold up
• A reduction, where a lower charge or a lower speed may carry fewer points or none
• A defensive driving course, which can reduce points on your record when you're eligible
• Pre-trial diversion. The Gwinnett Solicitor's Office has said some minor citations that don't involve an accident or serious injury can be resolved this way
• A plea agreement that limits fines, points, or other penalties
• Trial, where the state has to prove its case

5 Common Issues in Traffic Cases

Tickets rest on the officer's account, which leaves room to ask questions. A lawyer may look at:

1. Speed measurement, since the State has to show the reading was accurate, which can involve radar or lidar equipment, and the officer's training
2. The stop itself, because officers need a legal reason to pull you over
3. Road conditions and signage, such as faded signs, blocked views, or confusing lane markings
4. Dash cam or body camera video, which can help or hurt
5. Mistaken identity, since officers can follow the wrong vehicle in heavy traffic

Commercial Drivers, Young Drivers, and Out-of-State Licenses

A few groups have extra reasons to look closely before paying a ticket.

Commercial drivers face stricter rules, and a ticket that costs most drivers a few points can threaten a CDL and the paycheck that comes with it. Drivers under 21 can face a suspension at far fewer points than adults. And if you live outside Georgia, a ticket here doesn't stay here, since convictions are generally reported to your home state.

What to Do After You Get a Ticket

A few quick steps can protect your options:

1. Read the citation closely. Note the charge, the court, and the date.
2. Don't ignore the court date. Missing it can lead to a bench warrant and a license suspension.
3. Hold off on paying. Paying the fine usually means pleading guilty.
4. Collect details. Take photos of the road, signs, and weather, write down what happened while it's fresh, and save any dash cam footage.

Reach out to a lawyer early. The sooner someone can look at the ticket, the more options there may be.