Traffic Violations Attorney in Smithfield, NC
Got a traffic ticket in Smithfield or Johnston County? Protect your driver's license and avoid costly points. Experienced attorney defending traffic violations, suspended licenses, and CDL drivers.
Johnston County Courthouse
207 E Johnston St
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Traffic Violation Services in Smithfield
Common Violations
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Failure to stop at stop sign
- Running red light
- Following too closely
Suspended Licenses
- Driving with suspended license
- Limited driving privilege
- License restoration
- SR-22 requirements
- DMV administrative hearings
CDL Drivers
- CDL license protection
- CDL disqualifications
- Commercial vehicle violations
- Hours of service violations
- Livelihood protection
Legal Defense
- Prayer for judgment continued (PJC)
- Charge reduction
- Case dismissal
- Penalty mitigation
- Court representation
Traffic Routes and Highways in Smithfield
Highway 70 (US-70)
The main artery through Smithfield, known for frequent speed stops and heavy traffic. Officers regularly patrol this area, especially near shopping centers and school zones.
- • Variable speed limits (35-55 mph)
- • Mixed through and local traffic
- • Frequent speeding stops
- • Red light cameras at major intersections
Rural Roads
Johnston County has many rural roads where drivers frequently face citations for failure to stop completely, speeding, and failure to yield to farm equipment.
- • Stop signs at rural intersections
- • Slow-moving farm equipment traffic
- • Unmarked speed limits (35 mph)
- • County Sheriff patrols
High Patrol Zones
Smithfield Police officers and Johnston County Sheriff's deputies intensively patrol certain areas, especially during special events, holidays, and rush hour traffic. It's important to know your rights during traffic stops and have legal representation when necessary.
Consequences of Traffic Violations
Point System
- 1 Point
Speeding up to 10 mph
Driving without a license - 2 Points
Following too closely
Driving on wrong side of road - 3 Points
Speeding 11-15 mph
Failure to yield - 4+ Points
Speeding 16+ mph
Reckless driving
Point Consequences
- 8 Points in 3 Years
Mandatory defensive driving course
Possible suspension if not completed - 12 Points in 3 Years
Automatic license suspension
60-day duration - Insurance Increases
Points increase premiums
Remain for 3 years - CDL Drivers
Stricter standards
Disqualification for serious violations
North Carolina Traffic Laws
Mandatory Insurance
North Carolina requires all drivers to have liability insurance. Driving without insurance results in fines, license suspension, and vehicle registration revocation. High-risk drivers must maintain SR-22 insurance.
Speed Laws
- • School zones: 25 mph
- • Residential areas: 35 mph
- • Rural roads: 55 mph
- • Highways: 65-70 mph
- • Construction zones: Posted speed
Special Penalties
- • Speeding 15+ mph: Mandatory court appearance
- • Speeding 25+ mph: Possible suspension
- • Reckless driving: Up to 60 days in jail
- • Fleeing to elude arrest: Felony
- • Driving with suspended license: Misdemeanor
Traffic Defense Process
Citation Review
We review your traffic citation immediately to identify potential defenses, citation errors, or mitigating circumstances. Time is crucial - don't miss your response deadline.
Case Investigation
We investigate the circumstances of your stop, review the evidence, and determine if your constitutional rights were violated during the traffic stop.
Defense Strategy
We develop a customized strategy that may include challenging the evidence, negotiating reduced charges, or seeking dismissal based on improper procedures.
Prosecution Negotiation
We work with Johnston County prosecutors to negotiate the best possible terms, including reduced charges, reduced fines, or alternative dispositions.
Court Representation
We represent you at Johnston County Courthouse, presenting your case before the judge and fighting for the best possible outcome to protect your license and driving record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the fines for speeding on Highway 70 in Smithfield?
Speeding fines in North Carolina vary by speed. Exceeding the limit by 10 mph or less costs approximately $25 plus court costs. Higher speeds result in higher fines, points on your license, and possible license suspension.
What happens if I drive with a suspended license in Johnston County?
Driving with a suspended license is a Class 1 misdemeanor in North Carolina. Penalties include up to 120 days in jail, additional fines, and extension of the suspension period. Repeat cases face more severe penalties and mandatory jail time.
Can I get a prayer for judgment continued for my traffic ticket in Smithfield?
Prayer for Judgment Continued may be available for certain traffic violations in Johnston County. This allows avoiding points on your license, but is limited to once every 3 years per household for insurance and once every 5 years for DMV.
How do traffic points affect my North Carolina license?
North Carolina uses a point system where different violations carry different points. 12 or more points in 3 years results in license suspension. 8 points in 3 years may require completing a defensive driving course to keep your license.
What traffic violations are common on Johnston County rural roads?
Common violations include speeding on state highways, failure to stop completely at rural stop signs, failure to yield to farm equipment, and following too closely behind slow vehicles. Local officers know these problem areas and patrol regularly.
Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a minor traffic ticket in Smithfield?
Even 'minor' violations can have significant consequences including points, insurance increases, and possible license suspension. A lawyer can often reduce or dismiss charges, saving you money long-term and protecting your driver's license.
What should I do if I receive a traffic citation in Johnston County?
Don't ignore the citation - respond within the required timeframe. You can pay the fine, dispute the charge, or seek legal representation. Contact a traffic attorney before taking any action to understand your options and potential consequences.
How can I restore my suspended license in North Carolina?
License restoration requires meeting all suspension requirements, paying restoration fees, providing proof of SR-22 insurance if required, and possibly completing driving courses. The process varies depending on the reason for suspension.
What is a limited driving privilege in North Carolina?
A limited driving privilege allows essential driving during certain types of license suspensions. This can include driving to work, medical appointments, school, and community service. Not all suspensions qualify, and it must be requested through the court.
How much does legal representation for traffic violations in Smithfield cost?
Fees vary based on case complexity, but often cost less than the fines, points, and insurance increases you can avoid. We offer transparent flat fees for most traffic violations and a free consultation to evaluate your case.
Got a Traffic Ticket in Smithfield?
Don't automatically pay that ticket. Points on your license can cost thousands in insurance increases and put your driving privilege at risk. Get experienced defense that protects your license and your future.
Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC - Smithfield
612 S Brightleaf Blvd
Smithfield, NC 27577
Near Johnston County Courthouse
(919) 737-2812
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smithfield@vasquezlawfirm.com
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