What to do if You get a Ticket in New Orleans
Getting a ticket can be a confusing process with unclear instructions that differ state to state or even parish to parish. You’re upset and angry, but don’t put the ticket in the glove compartment and forget about it. The easiest thing to do if you have gotten a ticket is to call a lawyer. Hiring an attorney can help you with the ticket, the process, and the anxiety.
After the police officer writes the ticket, the ticket is sent through the channels until it reaches the Courthouse. On all tickets, there is a deadline at the bottom of the ticket that requires you to contact the Court and either plead guilty or not guilty by that date. If you call the Court before that date, you can either plead guilty and pay a fine or plead not guilty and get a court date to dispute the ticket or charge. This is important because normally you cannot handle the ticket without going to Court and speaking with the prosecutor about the ticket. If you plead guilty then you are admitting you were guilty of the charge and you are responsible for the fines and fees as well as the repercussions that come along with that guilty plea. Often times your insurance will increase or you might possibly end up with an additional suspension of your driving privileges.
If you plead not guilty, you are given a new court date, and you speak with the prosecutor. Depending on what you are charged with, sometimes you might be able to convince the prosecutor to reduce or dismiss your charges. This is important because often times you can stop any increase in your insurance or suspension of your driving privileges by agreeing to a reduced charge. Sometimes, before the prosecutor will agree to reduce or dismiss your charges, you will need to submit certain paper work. This will depend on the reason you were given the ticket. Hiring a lawyer is often a good idea because we know what paperwork we need to bring the prosecutor to increase the chances that your ticket will be reduced or dismissed.
If you meet with the prosecutor and they still will not offer a deal, then you will be faced with either pleading guilty or going to trial. In Louisiana, traffic tickets are considered misdemeanor offenses and guarantee you the same rights you would be afforded for any other criminal charge. You have the right to have a full trial and the prosecutor will have to present witnesses and evidence. Hiring a lawyer can be important on certain charges because we are prepared to try a case and understand the rules and procedures for trial.
Bottom line—HIRE A LAWYER! The worst thing you can do is not deal with the ticket at all. The second worst thing you can do is plead guilty and pay without exploring other options that will protect your car insurance rates and driving privileges. Hiring a lawyer will ensure you get the best possible outcome for your case, and often save you money. We will help reduce negative consequences for the ticket, save you time from having to take off of work and go to Court, and usually get a better deal than you would be able to if you tried to handle the matter yourself. I have been handling tickets for my clients for over 10 years. I know the Judges and the Prosecutors and I have a proven track record of keeping my clients records free from insurance increases or unnecessary fines or fees. Save yourself the headache and contact me today if you have received a ticket. 504-300-8338. When No One’s Carin’… Call McLaren!