traffic-offence

What Happens When You are Charged with a Traffic Offence

What happens when you are charged with a traffic offence usually depends on whether you plead guilty or are found guilty by the court. It also depends on how severe the charge is. Not all orders result in jail time. It is good to consult with criminal lawyers to determine what will happen and whether you need legal representation at the trial.

You may not have to attend court for less serious charges, but then you may be convicted. If you don’t go to court, you must phone the court registry after the hearing to see the verdict. If you get a Notice of the court hearing, you don’t have to attend, but you can if you want to.

Attendance is legally required if you receive a Summons for the court hearing. Also, if you receive paperwork entitled Police Bail or Court Bail, you have to attend court.

It is possible to go to court and represent yourself if the charges are not severe enough to result in jail time. For instance, you might be disqualified from driving for a specific time, lose points from your licence or even be required to do community service of some kind.

However, a criminal lawyer must represent you if it is a serious offence that will very likely attract a jail sentence. You should take advice from the lawyer even before you enter a plea. They will advise you of the best request to enter; guilty or not guilty. They also know legal ways to argue in your favour and may be able to ensure you are given the minimum sentence rather than a harsher one.