Traffic Violations Defense Lawyers in Maryland
Traffic tickets may seem minor, but in Maryland, even a simple citation can have lasting consequences. At Timothy A. Dachille & Associates, we represent clients facing all levels of traffic violations—from speeding tickets to criminal traffic offenses. With decades of experience defending Maryland drivers in both court and administrative hearings, our legal team works to keep points off your license, avoid insurance hikes, and in many cases, get charges dismissed altogether.
Understanding Traffic Violations in Maryland
Traffic violations in Maryland are divided into two primary categories: minor infractions (such as failure to signal or speeding under 10 mph over the limit) and serious offenses (including reckless driving, DUI, and driving on a suspended license). While some violations result in fines and points, others carry the risk of jail time and license suspension. Regardless of severity, any citation on your driving record can affect your insurance rates and your future driving privileges.
Our Maryland traffic violations lawyers handle a wide variety of offenses. Whether you've been pulled over for excessive speeding or accused of driving without a valid license, we can investigate the circumstances of your case, challenge the evidence, and represent you in both District Court and MVA hearings. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome—from PBJ (probation before judgment) to full dismissal.
Examples of Traffic Offenses We Handle
Common traffic violations we defend include:
- Speeding tickets (including excessive speeding 30+ mph over the limit)
- Failure to obey traffic control devices
- Driving without a valid license or insurance
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Unsafe lane changes and failure to signal
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license
- Accumulating too many points on your record
- Commercial Driver License (CDL) violations
- School zone or construction zone speeding
Points, Fines, and MVA Hearings
Maryland's point system can quickly lead to license suspension if violations stack up. Accumulating 8 or more points results in suspension, while 12 points means revocation. Every ticket carries a fine and a potential point penalty—and for certain violations, you must attend a hearing with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Timothy A. Dachille & Associates can represent you at these hearings and advocate for PBJ, dismissal, or point waivers when appropriate.
Speeding Tickets
Even low-level speeding violations can add points to your license. We fight to keep your record clean.
Driving With a Suspended License
This charge can lead to arrest, jail time, and long-term license issues. We aim to avoid convictions and restore your driving privileges.
Failure to Obey Traffic Devices
Camera-based tickets or officer citations may be challenged if signs were unclear or malfunctioning.
Red Light & Stop Sign Violations
These often carry higher fines and insurance impacts. We'll assess the stop's legality and argue for dismissal or reduction.
CDL Traffic Violations
Commercial drivers face stricter penalties. We protect your livelihood by minimizing points and avoiding disqualifications.
Repeat Traffic Offenders
If you're facing a second or third violation, courts are less lenient. Our team builds strong defenses for repeat offenders.
Why You Shouldn't Just Pay the Ticket
Paying a traffic ticket is equivalent to pleading guilty. That means points on your license, potential insurance increases, and a lasting record of the violation. In many cases, we can get charges reduced or dismissed without you ever needing to appear in court. With our help, you may avoid a conviction entirely—especially if the officer made an error or the stop was unjustified.
Defending Out-of-State Drivers in Maryland
If you're an out-of-state driver who received a Maryland traffic citation, you're not alone. Maryland's traffic convictions may transfer to your home state and affect your license, insurance, or employment—especially for CDL holders. We regularly defend clients who reside in Virginia, D.C., Pennsylvania, and beyond. In many cases, we can appear in court on your behalf, sparing you the trip. Let our team handle your Maryland ticket while you stay focused on work, travel, or family obligations.
Maryland Traffic Violations FAQs
Facing a traffic violation in Maryland can result in points, fines, license suspension, and more. Below are detailed FAQs prepared by our Maryland traffic ticket defense attorneys to help you understand your rights, consequences, and legal options.
What are the most common types of traffic violations in Maryland, and how are they penalized?
Common Maryland traffic violations include:
Speeding
Running a red light or stop sign
Improper lane changes
Failure to yield
Driving without insurance
Driving with a suspended or revoked license
Failure to obey traffic control devices
Penalties for these violations can range from fines of $80 to $1,000, 1 to 12 MVA points, and in some cases, license suspension or jail time (for more serious charges like driving on a suspended license). Our Maryland traffic defense lawyers help contest these charges, reduce points, and protect your record.
How does the Maryland MVA point system work, and when do points lead to license suspension?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) assigns points to your driving record for each violation. Examples include:
2 points for minor speeding tickets
3 points for failure to stop at a red light
5 points for reckless driving
12 points may trigger license revocation
If you accumulate 8 points, the MVA may suspend your license. At 12 points, your license may be revoked. Hiring a Maryland traffic violations lawyer can help you avoid these consequences through dismissal or reduction of charges.
Should I plead guilty and just pay my Maryland traffic ticket?
While paying a traffic ticket may seem like the easiest option, it’s equivalent to pleading guilty and accepting all penalties, including:
Points on your record
Fines
Increased insurance premiums
Risk of license suspension for repeat offenses
In many cases, our traffic defense attorneys can appear in court on your behalf, reduce the violation to a no-point offense, or even get the charge dismissed entirely. Always consult a lawyer before paying a ticket—especially if your driving record is at risk.
Can I fight a traffic ticket without going to court in Maryland?
Yes, in certain cases, your attorney can appear on your behalf and fight your traffic ticket without you needing to go to court. This is especially helpful if:
You live out of state or far from the court
You hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
You face multiple violations and want to avoid further penalties
Our attorneys handle everything from requesting a court date to negotiating with the prosecutor and presenting your case before a judge.
Will a traffic violation affect my insurance or job?
Yes, depending on the severity of the offense, a traffic violation can significantly affect your insurance premiums and employment prospects, particularly if your job involves driving. Insurance companies may see traffic convictions as a sign of risky behavior, resulting in:
Higher monthly premiums
Loss of safe driver discounts
Policy cancellation or denial of renewal
For commercial drivers or those with government clearances, violations may put your job at risk. Protecting your record with legal representation is one of the best ways to avoid these long-term consequences.
Free Consultation With a Maryland Traffic Violations Lawyer
If you've been cited for a traffic offense in Maryland, time is critical. Contact Timothy A. Dachille & Associates today to schedule a free consultation. We help drivers across Baltimore and surrounding counties fight tickets, protect their licenses, and minimize penalties.