Do I need to hire an attorney to represent me on my traffic charge?

You do not need to hire an attorney to contest a traffic charge. You may do so if you wish. However, if you cannot afford an attorney, you are only entitled to a court-appointed attorney only if you are charged with a misdemeanor (or jailable) offense. Speeding and most accident charges are not misdemeanors; therefore, you are not legally entitled to a court-appointed attorney for those types of charges. The Assistant States Attorney cannot give legal advice to defendants. If you want legal advice you may consult with your own lawyer. Legal advice should not be provided to you by a Deputy Circuit Clerk. If you need legal advice, secure it only from your own attorney.

Show All Answers

1. Do I need to hire an attorney to represent me on my traffic charge?
2. How can I get my bond back?
3. I cannot make my upcoming court date. Can I change it?
4. I cannot pay my fine. How can I get an extension?
5. I missed my court date. What will happen now?
6. I received an operating uninsured motor vehicle ticket and I had insurance. What should I do?
7. I received notice that I owe a fine, even though I have not been to court. What can I do?
8. I was in an accident with another vehicle which was uninsured. Will I be able to get money from Traffic Court?
9. Is there any way I can keep a traffic ticket off my record?
10. My ticket says $75 and it also says I must come to court. Is my fine $75?
11. What is the difference between a bench trial and a jury trial?
12. What is the difference between a ticket marked must appear and a ticket marked may appear?
13. What should I do If I want to contest my traffic ticket?