Traffic Violation
It starts with the red and blue lights flashing in your rearview mirror. You are uncertain as to how this traffic violation will affect your future. Almost every driver has disobeyed a roadway law at one point, and of course, some get caught.
If law enforcement recently stuck you with a traffic violation, it’s crucial to explore your options. Having legal counsel to represent your best interest in traffic-related violations can help you avoid costly fines or losing driving privileges.
Scott W. Sheen & Associates have a vast amount of experience representing clients charged with a wide variety of traffic offenses. We have the skills and knowledge needed to advocate on your behalf. We will significantly improve your chances of a desirable outcome when fighting a traffic violation ticket or other penalties.
An Attorney Can Help You Challenge Unforeseen Costs and Charges
Our traffic violation attorneys will thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case to build the most compelling possible defense on your behalf. We examine any evidence or argument that could turn the case in your favor.
We believe that there is nothing more important than your constitutional rights. If we find a constitutional violation, we will take swift action to challenge the charges or evidence against you. If a dismissal is not an option, we persistently work to minimize the impact of the charges against you.
Aggravated Speeding
Class A Misdemeanor—Driving 35+ mph above the limit
These drivers may face up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500 plus court costs.
Class B Misdemeanor—Driving 26 to 34 mph above the limit
This traffic violation can be punished by up to six months in jail and a maximum fine of $1,500 plus court costs.
Major Traffic Offenses
- Too fast for conditions
- DUI
- Improper lane usage
- Disregard traffic counts
- Reckless driving
- Reckless homicide
- Hit and run
- Failure to reduce speed
- Failure to yield right of way
right of way
In Illinois, there are a variety of offenses that can result in a license being revoked or suspended:
- Multiple speeding violations
- Failing to satisfy traffic citation terms
- Having ten or more unpaid parking violations
- Failure to pay child support
- Passing a stopped school bus
- Driving without valid insurance
If you are above 21, your license may get suspended if you get three convictions in a year. If you are younger than 21, your license may get suspended for two convictions in 24 months.
25 MPH OR LESS
Not a criminal offense and are not punishable by jail time
SPEEDING IN A SCHOOL ZONE
A minimum of $150 fine and are excluded from court supervision
SPEEDING IN A CONSTRUCTION ZONE
Carries a minimum $375 fine plus court costs
Driving While License Suspended or Revoked (DWLS/DWLR)
- Usually charged as a Class A misdemeanor
- Carries a penalty of up to 364 days in the county jail
- Can carry a fine up to $2,500.00
- DWLR can be charged as a felony
- You are entitled to a trial by jury or a trial before a judge without a jury
- You are not required to go to trial
- May enter a negotiated plea with the prosecutor or a “blind” plea before the court
It is vital to obtain court supervision when available or amend the charges against you to lessen the offense. A lesser offense will give you fewer consequences. Court supervision is a favorable outcome. However, it is not available for every traffic-related charge.
Through court supervision, the case is continued, but there is no conviction against you. During this time, you must fulfill conditions set by the court. The case is dismissed at the end.