Criminal Traffic Violations
More Than a Ticket. More Reason to Protect Your Rights.
Criminal Traffic Violation Attorneys in Peachtree Corners & Metro Atlanta
Focused Defense When Your License Is at Risk
Not every traffic violation is simply a ticket. Certain driving offenses can result in criminal charges that carry consequences beyond paying a fine. Depending on the alleged offense, a conviction may affect your driver's license, insurance rates, employment, criminal record, and ability to continue driving.
At Bair Wilson Sharma LLC, our criminal defense attorneys represent individuals facing criminal traffic violations and help clients understand the difference between an ordinary traffic citation and an offense that can carry criminal penalties.
Criminal traffic cases may involve allegations such as reckless driving, driving with a suspended or revoked license, hit and run, fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, and other serious traffic-related offenses. The classification and potential penalties depend on the specific charge and circumstances.
For many clients, a driver's license is essential for getting to work, caring for children, attending school, and handling everyday responsibilities. A traffic-related criminal conviction can therefore have consequences that reach well beyond the courtroom.
Our attorneys take these charges seriously. We review the circumstances surrounding the traffic stop or alleged incident, explain the potential penalties, and develop a defense strategy based on the specific facts of the case.
Call Bair Wilson Sharma LLC at 678-250-6095 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
Examining the Traffic Stop and Evidence Against You
A criminal traffic charge does not automatically result in a conviction. The prosecution must establish the required elements of the alleged offense, and the circumstances surrounding the traffic stop or investigation can be an important part of the defense. At Bair Wilson Sharma LLC, our attorneys may review police reports, body-camera footage, dash-camera recordings, traffic or surveillance cameras, witness statements, photographs, accident reports, and other available evidence.
For example, a reckless driving allegation may depend heavily on an officer's observations and the circumstances surrounding the alleged driving behavior. Georgia law generally defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle with reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property. Whether particular conduct meets that standard depends on the facts.
Driving with a suspended license can raise different questions, including the driver's license status and the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense. Hit-and-run or leaving-the-scene allegations may require a close examination of what occurred after an accident and whether the legal requirements associated with the charge can be established.
Cases involving allegations of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement may involve additional questions about what the driver knew, the officer's instructions, and the driver's conduct during the encounter. Our attorneys also examine whether law enforcement acted lawfully. Depending on the circumstances, questions may arise regarding the reason for the traffic stop, the length and scope of the detention, searches conducted during the encounter, or statements obtained from the driver.
Every case presents different issues. Our role is to look beyond the citation or police report and determine whether the available evidence supports each element of the charge.
Keeping You Moving Forward After a Traffic Charge
Criminal traffic violations can carry a combination of criminal and driver's license consequences. Depending on the charge, a conviction may result in fines, probation, possible incarceration, points on a driving record, license suspension or revocation, and other court-ordered requirements.
For individuals who drive professionally, the consequences can be especially significant. Commercial drivers and others whose employment requires a valid driver's license may face employment-related consequences in addition to the penalties imposed by the court or licensing authorities. Even for drivers who do not operate a vehicle professionally, losing or restricting driving privileges can make everyday life substantially more difficult. That is why our attorneys consider both the criminal case and potential licensing consequences when evaluating available options.
Depending on the offense, evidence, driving history, and other circumstances, there may be opportunities to challenge the charge, dispute the prosecution's evidence, negotiate an appropriate resolution, or proceed to trial. We explain the available options and potential consequences so our clients can make informed decisions rather than simply resolving a citation without understanding how it could affect them later.
Drivers should also avoid assuming that ignoring a citation or missing a court date will make the matter disappear. Failure to properly address a traffic-related criminal case can potentially lead to additional complications. Understanding the court requirements and responding within the appropriate timeframe is important. Criminal traffic allegations may also arise alongside other charges. A single traffic stop or accident, for example, can potentially result in multiple citations or criminal allegations. When that occurs, we evaluate the entire situation rather than addressing each charge in isolation.
For non-U.S. citizens, the potential consequences of a criminal case should also be considered carefully. The immigration impact, if any, depends on the specific offense, circumstances, and ultimate disposition. Because our firm also handles immigration matters, we recognize the importance of considering a client's broader circumstances when evaluating defense options.
At Bair Wilson Sharma LLC, our clients receive hands-on representation throughout the criminal traffic process. We review the evidence, explain what to expect in court, evaluate potential driver's license consequences, negotiate when appropriate, and advocate for our clients when litigation is necessary. Our firm provides multilingual legal services in English, Spanish, French, Ukrainian, and Russian, helping clients clearly understand their charges and legal options.
We proudly represent drivers throughout the Metro Atlanta Area who are facing criminal traffic violations. Whether you have been charged with reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, hit and run, fleeing or attempting to elude, or another criminal traffic offense, our attorneys can help you understand what is at stake and work toward protecting your license, record, and future.
Criminal Traffic Violations FAQs
What is a criminal traffic violation in Georgia?
A criminal traffic violation is a driving-related offense that can carry criminal penalties rather than simply being handled as a routine traffic ticket. Depending on the charge, consequences may include fines, probation, possible jail time, and driver's license penalties.
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Georgia?
Yes. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense in Georgia. The law generally prohibits driving with reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property.
What happens if I am caught driving with a suspended license?
Driving with a suspended or revoked license can result in criminal and additional licensing consequences. The potential penalties depend on factors such as the reason for the suspension and whether there are prior offenses.
What is considered hit and run in Georgia?
Georgia law generally requires drivers involved in certain accidents to stop and fulfill specific legal duties. Leaving the scene without meeting those requirements can potentially result in criminal charges, with the seriousness depending on the circumstances.
What does fleeing or attempting to elude mean?
A driver may face this charge when accused of willfully failing or refusing to stop after being directed to do so by law enforcement or attempting to escape or avoid an officer. The potential penalties can vary significantly depending on the alleged conduct.
Can a criminal traffic conviction affect my driver's license?
Yes. Depending on the offense, a conviction may result in points, suspension, revocation, or other restrictions on your driving privileges in addition to criminal penalties.
Can criminal traffic charges be reduced or dismissed?
Potentially. The available options depend on the specific charge, evidence, driving history, and circumstances. An attorney can review the traffic stop or incident and determine whether there are grounds to challenge the allegations or pursue another resolution.
What happens if I miss court for a criminal traffic charge?
Missing a required court appearance can create additional legal and driver's license complications. If you have already missed court, addressing the situation promptly can help you understand what steps may be available.
Facing Criminal Charges?
Facing criminal charges can be stressful and overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Contact Bair Wilson Sharma LLC for clear guidance and personalized representation focused on protecting your rights and future. Our multilingual attorneys serve clients in English, Spanish, French, Ukrainian, and Russian. Call 678-250-6095 today to speak with one of our criminal defense attorneys.