Expert Legal Help from a Skilled DC Traffic Arrest Attorney

Need a skilled DC Traffic Arrest Attorney? Get expert legal representation for traffic offenses in Washington, DC. Contact us today for a consultation.

Experienced DC Traffic Lawyer

 

In our nation’s capital, the District’s Office of the Attorney General or “OAG” prosecutes traffic offenses, all considered misdemeanor crimes. For violations that do not result in arrest, the Department of Motor Vehicles or “DMV” adjudicates these infractions. Judges in the Superior Court adjudicate criminal traffic offenses.

A skilled DC traffic arrest attorney can help defend those charged with criminal offenses relating to traffic laws in Washington, DC.

At Scrofano Law, we understand that a criminal record of a traffic offense can have serious consequences. That is why it is essential to fight the reckless driving charge, obtain an acquittal or downgrade in penalty, and have the record sealed from public view.

Our experienced attorneys know the intricacies of DC traffic laws and will work to obtain the best outcome for your case. We have represented clients in a variety of criminal traffic offenses, including:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

• Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)

• Speeding

• Reckless driving

• Hit and run

• Driving without a license

• Driving on a suspended or revoked license

• Red light violations

• Stop sign violations

Contact Scrofano Law today for an experienced DC attorney to help you fight traffic arrest charges.

What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Traffic Offense and a Ticket?

 

These charges are different from a speeding ticket, for example, where the police give a citation that must either be paid or contested with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Traffic offenses that do not warrant an arrest typically involve some moving violation. This could include speeding or running a red light.

Other offenses include using a cell phone while driving, failing to use a blinker, and failing to control speed to avoid a collision. The list of potential traffic infractions causing a DMV ticket is countless and based on Municipal Regulations.

Criminal traffic violations are different because police can arrest if they have reason to believe the person committed these crimes. Criminal traffic offenses involve either a regulatory violation (like driving with a suspended or revoked license) or some type of bad driving offense (like reckless driving or speeding over 30).

The OAG offers a wide range of diversion options for first and sometimes second-offenders in some cases. If you’re arrested for a criminal traffic offense, you must consult a DC traffic lawyer who can advise you and defend your rights.

 

What Are Some Examples of DC Criminal Traffic Offenses?

 

In addition to DUI, OWI, and leaving after colliding (“hit and run”), and fleeing, there are five primary traffic offenses that the police can arrest people:

• Speed over 30

• Reckless Driving

• No Permit

• Operating after a Suspended or Revoked License

The OAG also prosecutes minor traffic crimes involving counterfeit or altered vehicle tags.

 

Are There Diversion Options for DC Criminal Traffic Offenses?

 

The OAG often offers diversion options for criminal traffic offenses. These options typically include having the person charged remedy their license and/or completing community service in exchange for dismissing driver’s license-related charges.

Other diversion options include a Deferred Sentencing Agreement or “DSA,” where the person pleads guilty, completes some combination of classes, community service, and/or fines, and then returns to court for sentencing.

If the person completes all the agreement requirements, the OAG will not oppose a withdrawal of the original guilty plea and then dismiss the criminal case. Also, the OAG may offer a Deferred Prosecution Agreement or “DPA” similar to a DSA but does not require the defendant to plead guilty to the offense.

 

Does the OAG Prosecute Camera Tickets?

 

No. Both DMV tickets and arrestable traffic crimes are different from camera tickets. The government permits private companies to maintain speed and red-light cameras throughout the city. These tickets usually come in the mail after an alleged offense and do not involve an officer pulling you over and giving the traffic ticket.

 

Does the Firm Defend Camera Tickets?

 

No. These tickets are notoriously difficult to defend because the law tickets the vehicle—not the driver. That means that someone else was driving your car when they got a camera ticket is not a defense to the actual ticket. Because they are almost impossible to contest, there is no real value we can offer clients who are frustrated and wish to contest camera tickets.

 

Does the Firm Handle DC DMV Tickets?

 

At Scrofano Law PC, we do handle DMV matters but typically charge about $750.00 per hearing. We must charge at this rate because DMV matters usually take at least a few hours of the attorney’s time traveling to DMV, waiting for the hearing to be called, and defending the hearing.

For many people, paying $750.00 to defend against a ticket that costs less than that is not worth it. However, in some situations, it makes sense where the ticket recipient may have a commercial driver’s license or their insurance company has encouraged them to contest the ticket to avoid an “at fault” designation in an accident.

A conviction for a traffic violation can have serious consequences, including loss of license or driving privileges, probation, or even jail. Having an experienced traffic attorney can make all the difference if you’re facing a criminal traffic offense. Contact Scrofano Law PC now and get expert legal help to protect your rights and driving record.

When you work with us, you’ll receive dedicated and personalized attention from a skilled DC traffic attorney who will fight hard for the best possible outcome in your case. We’ll take the time to understand your situation and craft an effective defense strategy tailored specifically to you. With our help, you can fight for reduced or dismissed charges — and get back on the road again.

Don’t let a traffic infraction ruin your life. Contact Scrofano Law for a full consultation today. We’re here to help you get the best result possible.