Receiving a traffic ticket can be confusing and stressful, especially when you’re unsure what type of citation you’ve been issued. In Florida, traffic violations fall into two distinct categories: civil traffic citations and criminal traffic citations. The difference between these two can significantly impact your driving record, insurance rates, and even your freedom.
At The Wiseman Law Firm, our Orlando traffic ticket lawyer helps clients navigate both civil and criminal traffic matters. With more than 25 years of trial-tested experience, Attorney Simon Wiseman understands the nuances of Florida traffic law and can provide the aggressive representation you need to protect your rights.
What Is a Civil Traffic Violation Citation?
A civil traffic citation is issued for non-criminal traffic infractions that typically result in fines and points on your driving record. These violations are considered less serious and don’t carry the threat of jail time. Common examples include speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield right of way. When you receive a civil citation, you have several options for responding:
- Pay the fine indicated on the ticket or imposed by the court.
- Ask the court for an informal hearing where you can explain to the judge or magistrate what occurred. The officer can also explain his or her observations. No attorneys can be present.
- Request a formal hearing where the prosecution must present evidence you violated a traffic law. You may retain an attorney to represent you.
- Attend traffic school.
Choosing the right response to a civil traffic citation depends on your driving record and the specific circumstances of your case. While paying the fine may seem like the easiest option, it results in an automatic conviction and points on your driving record. A formal hearing allows you to challenge the citation and potentially avoid these consequences.
What Is a Criminal Traffic Ticket/Citation?
Criminal traffic violations are far more serious offenses that can result in criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. These charges require you to appear in court and, in many cases, it’s crucial to have legal representation. Criminal traffic offenses in Florida include:
- Reckless driving
- Driving with a suspended license
- Driving without a valid license
- Being a HTO or habitual traffic offender
- Vehicular homicide or manslaughter
- Careless driving
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Attempting to elude law enforcement
If you’re charged with a criminal traffic offense, the stakes are significantly higher than a civil citation. A criminal conviction can affect your employment opportunities, professional licenses, and personal reputation. You have the right to legal counsel, and exercising this right is often critical to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Key Differences Between Civil and Criminal Traffic Citations in Florida
Understanding whether you’ve received a civil or criminal citation affects how you should respond. The primary differences include the severity of penalties, the legal process involved, and the long-term impact on your record.
Civil citations typically carry fines ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars and add points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension. However, civil violations don’t result in criminal penalties or jail time, and they won’t appear on background checks as criminal convictions.
Criminal traffic offenses in Orlando and throughout Florida carry much harsher consequences. Penalties may include substantial fines, probation, community service, mandatory driver improvement courses, license suspension or revocation, and incarceration. These convictions become part of your permanent criminal record, which can affect future employment, housing applications, and professional licensing.
Why You Need an Orlando Traffic Ticket Lawyer
Whether you’re facing a civil or criminal traffic charge, having experienced legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A traffic violation attorney can review the circumstances of your stop, examine the evidence against you, identify potential defenses, and negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf.
For civil citations, an attorney may be able to get the charges reduced or dismissed, help you avoid points on your driving record, or negotiate for traffic school instead of a conviction. For criminal traffic offenses, legal representation becomes even more critical as you’re facing potential jail time and a criminal record.
Contact The Wiseman Law Firm for Orlando Traffic Ticket Defense
If you’ve received a traffic citation in Florida, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. At The Wiseman Law Firm, Attorney Simon Wiseman brings more than 25 years of proven, trial-tested experience to every case. As a former prosecutor who has successfully handled high-profile cases in criminal courts, he now uses this insider knowledge to craft the strongest possible defense for his clients. We make ourselves available 24 hours a day and are top-rated by our clients for the personal attention and results we provide.
Whether you’re facing a civil traffic citation or serious criminal traffic charges, our Orlando criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights, your driving record, and your future. Don’t let a traffic citation derail your life. Fill out our contact form to schedule your consultation today.