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The average person is more likely to appear in Municipal Court than any
other court in our judicial system since municipal courts have jurisdiction
over motor vehicle, traffic, fish and game violations as well as disorderly
person offenses. Municipal Courts can also issue temporary restraining
orders in the event of Domestic Violence. Municipal Courts can impose
penalties including incarceration, fines, restitution, community service,
probation, revocation of driver's licenses and other serious sanctions.
Whether you've been to law school or not, all people coming before any
court of law are bound by its rules and procedures, whether you are familiar
with them or not. What is admissible evidence and what is not; what is
the standard of proof that the complaining party must meet. Is "guilty
with an explanation" the same as "guilty with a reservation"?
What is a "declaration against penal interest"? Legal representation
in court is advisable.
Drunk Driving
One of the more serious offenses under Title 39 involves driving while
under the influence of alcohol. Being found guilty or pleading guilty
to a drunk driving charges mandates, among other things, a loss of your
driver's license and the imposition of significant fines and surcharges.
Beginning with the initial stop by a police officer through the trial
of a drunk driving case, there are important issues to be examined and
explored, like whether due process was applied and whether the stop and
arrest was fairly made. Drunk driving is wrong, but people who have been
arrested for driving under the influence are entitled to a defense. We
have handled hundreds of cases involving individuals accused.
Motor Vehicle Point System
Any representation of a defendant who is charged with a traffic offense
involving motor vehicle points must evaluate the impact that the points
will have if found guilty and whether there is anything that can be done.
In todayÕs society, we all commute longer and drive further than
ever before for work and for families. Although driving is a "privilege"
in the perspective of the law, it is a necessity in modern life. The accumulation
of points affects that "privilege" and costs money in surcharges.
People accused of quasi-criminal offenses like traffic violations are
entitled to a defense in municipal court. Was the speed detection device
working right? Did the officer know how to use it? Was the offense the
fault of some other motorist? Did the Division of Motor Vehicles send
out the proper notices? Was the charge made the appropriate charge under
the circumstances or do the facts warrant reduction to a lesser offense?
We can represent your interests when contesting motor vehicle charges.
This information should not be considered legal advice
and is not intended as a substitute for consultation with an attorney
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