If you are facing a traffic ticket in Georgia, you may wonder whether it is worth pushing back. Should you simply pay the fine and move on with your life? Or should you fight the ticket and avoid these needless payments? Fighting a ticket may be easier – and more beneficial – than you realize. These tickets can add points to your license, potentially taking away your right to drive. This can cause problems with your career and your sense of independence. A traffic ticket can also increase your insurance premiums. How do you fight a traffic ticket in Georgia?
Contest the Ticket
The first step is to take a clear stance and “contest” your ticket. You should do this as soon as possible. Avoid delays, and make a decision about how you want to approach the ticket. If you plan to contest the ticket, know that you may need to appear in court. If you do not respond and make a decision (either paying or contesting the ticket) within a certain amount of time, you face additional charges and the potential suspension of your license.
Understand the Burden of Proof
A traffic ticket represents an “offense.” In the United States, the accuser carries the burden of proof. If the accuser cannot prove that you committed the offense, you should not face any consequences. You are under no obligation to present evidence of your guilt, and you could potentially avoid consequences even if you do not present any evidence whatsoever. On the other hand, your accuser must present compelling evidence if they want to ensure your consequences.
In the case of a traffic ticket, the burden of proof lies with the court – and perhaps the police officer. Sometimes, speeding tickets are based on matters of opinion rather than fact. For example, a police officer may believe that you were driving recklessly, but perhaps you were not breaking any specific traffic laws. This could present an opportunity for an effective defense.
The Police Officer Who Issued Your Ticket May Be Present
The officer who issued your ticket may be present at your hearing. If they attend the hearing, they may provide testimony about what happened during the traffic stop. However, these officers are often too busy to attend. Courts cannot simply refer to their written reports to determine what happened during the incident – as this is a violation of hearsay rules. If the officer is not present to testify, this may be advantageous to you.
Can a Traffic Law Attorney in Georgia Help Me?
A traffic law attorney in Georgia may be able to help you fight for your rights and avoid needless fines. Although this might seem like a daunting task, fighting a ticket is easier than many people realize. Experienced lawyers at Lankford & Moore Law can assist with this process, and you may be able to avoid paying your fine in just a few days. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about this process.
