30 Nov Criminal Traffic Tickets in Arizona
Criminal traffic tickets are different from civil traffic tickets (like speeding) and hold more intense consequences. Unlike civil traffic tickets in Arizona, you usually can’t take a class to have your ticket dismissed.
What qualifies as a criminal traffic ticket in Arizona?
The two categories of criminal traffic tickets are misdemeanors and felonies.
Felony charges occur when a driver tries to escape or out-run the police, when someone is killed in a DUI-related accident, when a hit & run occurs, or when a person is charged with an aggravated DUI.
A criminal traffic ticket will most likely require you to appear in court. Examples of criminal traffic tickets include:
- aggressive or reckless driving
- fleeing the scene of an accident or failure to stop
- racing on highways
- operating a vehicle while intoxicated with alcohol or drugs
- driving with a suspended/revoked license
Can I get a criminal traffic ticket for speeding in Arizona?
Yes, this is a possibility. Most likely if you’re caught speeding you’ll receive a civil traffic ticket. However, there are a few circumstances where criminal traffic tickets are issued:
- driving 35 mph over the speed limit in a school zone
- driving 20 mph over the speed limit in a business or residential area
- driving in any area over 85 mph
The penalties for criminal speeding will vary by county and courtroom in Arizona. Typically it’s a class 3 misdemeanor charge. You could receive 3 points on your license, a fine of $500, or even be sentenced to 30 days in jail—although having to serve jail time is highly uncommon.
Where can I find help for my criminal traffic ticket?
In Arizona there are strict DUI laws. Being convicted of a DUI can severely impact your life. Repercussions from the charge could carry over into your education, employment, insurance, and general life. It’s best to know your defenses for a DUI and to have professional representation in court.
Todd Coolidge has helped many Arizonans when it comes to criminal traffic tickets. J. Clark who was charged with a Super Extreme DUI faced consequences of jail time, probation, and insurance penalties. With Mr. Coolidge’s skilled representation in court, the charge was changed to a DMV Reckless Driving. “No jail time, no DUI, no probation, and no change on my insurance…Nothing,” Clark said.
For the same help, don’t hesitate to contact Todd Coolidge. He services Maricopa county, including Tempe, Chandler, Phoenix, and Scottsdale.
Image used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/30/2020) Robert Couse-Baker (Flickr)