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Navigating the complexities of traffic laws in San Diego can be a daunting experience, whether you’re dealing with a minor infraction or a serious violation that could impact your driving privileges or even result in criminal charges. At Bernal Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with traffic violations. From speeding tickets to DUI offenses, our approach is tailored to meet each client’s needs, ensuring personalized and effective legal counsel.
Led by Pedro Bernal, Esq., we offer comprehensive legal defense in San Diego for various traffic violations and beyond. Our background, which includes significant experience as both prosecutors and defense lawyers, allows us to bring a well-rounded perspective to defending those accused of traffic violations. Our practice areas span from drug crimes to white-collar crimes, ensuring our clients receive solid and principled legal representation across a broad spectrum of charges.
Potential Penalties for Traffic Violations
Generally speaking, the potential penalties for traffic violations will vary based on the specific behaviors exhibited and the laws broken. Depending on the law and whether or not someone is a repeat offender, those convicted may face the following consequences:
- Fines
- License suspension
- Community service
- Points on their driving record
- Jail time
- Vehicle impoundment
These consequences will likely increase if the individual is a repeat offender or has a history of similar violations. Penalties are also more serious if they are committed within a certain time. For example, suppose Party A is guilty of speed racing more than once in the last five years. Compared to Party B, who has only taken part in speed racing one time over 10 years ago, Party A would likely face more severe penalties.
Defenses for Traffic Violations in California
Depending on the violations you have been charged with, you may have access to several helpful defenses. Whether you were guilty of the accusation or not, we can help recommend a handful of arguments that might be helpful.
Police Opinion is Incorrect
In some cases, police will have to make a quick judgment call to determine whether someone deserves a charge. For example, if an officer decides you were driving at an unsafe speed, this is subjective. Depending on what the officer could see, they may have made an incorrect assumption.
Necessary Elements Cannot Be Proven
The court must demonstrate that you were committing the crime law enforcement has accused you of. For example, if someone has been charged for not wearing a seatbelt, it must be demonstrated that you were both in a vehicle and your seatbelt was not on. You may not be convicted if there is insufficient evidence for one or both of these.
Your Behavior Was Necessary
In some cases, police officers may not notice that you were attempting to avoid unsafe conditions. If you swerved to avoid hitting a pedestrian, police might try to claim you were driving recklessly. However, you will know that you needed to keep the pedestrian safe.
Additional arguments may also be helpful during your case, so we recommend you work with an attorney from Bernal Law. We can assist in finding more robust defenses that work in your favor and reduce the severity of your penalties.
How Can a Traffic Violations Lawyer Support You?
If you have been charged with a traffic violation in San Diego, you will need to participate in the legal process. However, we strongly recommend that you work with an attorney during your traffic violation case, as this can help reduce stress during litigation.
When you retain support from an attorney at Bernal Law, we can support you in the following ways:
- Collecting evidence
- Assuring that all documents are filed correctly and promptly
- Communicating with the other parties on your behalf
- Organizing and presenting the evidence
- Accessing research methods and tools only available to legal professionals
- Providing an understanding of the legal system and how to make it work for you
- Interviewing witnesses
- Helping formulate a plea
- Evaluating potential sentences
- Reviewing search and seizure procedures
Bernal Law can help reduce your stress, decrease the severity of potential consequences, and lower the time spent in litigation. Feel free to contact us to retain our services, and we’ll gladly provide you with more information.
Fight to Protect Your Rights: Contact Bernal Law to Retain Invaluable Legal Support During Your Traffic Violation Case
If you’re grappling with the weight of a traffic violation in San Diego, you don’t have to handle legal matters alone. At Bernal Law, we are committed to navigating the complexities of traffic law to defend your rights and aim for the best possible outcome. Whether it’s speeding, red light infractions, DUI, or more severe charges, our team, led by Pedro Bernal, Esq., is here to offer experienced legal counsel and representation. We’re also fluent in English and Spanish, so you can feel confident communicating with us.
Leveraging our comprehensive knowledge of San Diego’s traffic laws and court procedures, we’re committed to ensuring you receive personalized and effective legal assistance. You can call us at (619) 736-9092 or complete our contact form. With a unique blend of experience as both a prosecutor and a defense lawyer, Pedro Bernal, Esq. is well-equipped to handle your case with the attention and diligence it deserves.