If you're facing a speeding ticket, it is important to consult an attorney familiar with the Illinois Vehicle Code before paying any fine by mail or appearing in court alone. Illinois Traffic Laws have undergone major changes recently, and you may be unwittingly subjecting your license to suspension if you are unaware of the consequences. If you are issued a speeding ticket, it is critical to review your citation and seek advice:
Construction Zone Speeding: Speeding in a construction zone is more serious than a regular, petty speeding offense. A first offense carries a mandatory minimum $250 fine, and a second offense carries a minimum $750 fine. In addition, the second violation in 2 years will lead to the suspension of your driving privileges.
School Zone Speeding: If you are found guilty of Speeding in a School Zone, a first offense carries a minimum $150 fine, and a second carries a minimum $300 fine. More importantly, the law does not allow for a disposition of court supervision for Speeding in a School Zone. A conviction is mandatory.
Aggravated Speeding: If you are issued a ticket for speeding at least 26 miles over the speed limit, you are likely charged with a misdemeanor offense. If you are caught speeding between 26 mph and 34 mph above the speed limit, it is a Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and up to a $1,500 fine. If you are caught speeding 35 miles or more over the limit, you are facing a Class A Misdemeanor charge, which carries up to 364 days in jail and up to a $2,500 fine.
Supervision is not an allowable disposition on an Aggravated Speeding charge, and a conviction will be entered on your record. When defending a speeding ticket, we will examine the circumstances surrounding the case such as the method used by the officer to record your speed and/or if the speed limit was clearly marked (a common point of contention in construction zones). Under certain circumstances, a request can be made to amend the ticket to minimize the impact on your driving record. With certain exclusions, some referenced above, you may be eligible for a disposition of court supervision which will not result in points being assessed on your driving record.
Keep in mind that by simply paying a moving violation or speeding ticket by mail, you may be subjecting yourself to a conviction. Too many convictions can result in the suspension of your driving privileges. Therefore, it is all the more important to consult an experienced traffic defense attorney if you have been issued a traffic citation.
Contact our Dohman Law Group today at 847-359-4005 for a free initial consultation. Our legal team will review your ticket and your driving history to identify the best way to assist you. Our criminal defense law firm represents clients in criminal legal cases, traffic violations, juvenile defense cases, and expungements throughout Wheaton, Rolling Meadows, Waukegan, Elgin, Lombard, Aurora, and throughout Illinois.