MVA Hearings / Traffic Court / Traffic Violations
Carroll County, MD, Defense Attorney
Were you pulled over for a traffic violation? Did you recieve a traffic ticket? Were you involved in an accident? Are you worried about going to court alone? Most people feel more comfortable going to court knowing they have a lawyer who will represent them and stand up before the judge with them. In some cases, traffic stops can result in criminal charges. Even if you are innocent, you may feel intimidated by the court system and get tongue tied when it comes to speaking up for yourself. As an experienced attorney in the Maryland court systems, I can assist you with handling traffic violations and charges issued.
Traffic Stops / Traffic Violations & Tickets
There are many types of moving violations, traffic tickets, warnings or citations you could be issued.
Serious Traffic Charges
Traffic stops can also result in criminal charges against you. Criminal charges issued as a result of a traffic stop may necessitate that you have your own lawyer. If you aren't sure if the ticket you received is serious enough to hire a lawyer, give us a call and I would be happy to advise you. Call to schedule a consultation and I can help you decide if you need an attorney or not. The first 30 minutes is free for new clients. Please note that the first 30 minutes are provided to determine whether we think we can help you and let you know what you will need to do to retain our services should you desire to do so. The first 30 minutes is not intended for free legal advice.
Safety Equipment Repair Orders (SERO)
For minor vehicle repairs, such as a head light that is burnt out or turn signal not working, you probably won't need an attorney. These tickets are called Safety Equipment Repair Orders (SERO). Instead of hiring a lawyer for this, have the repair work done within 10 days and then follow the instructions on the MVA website (SERO page) within 30 days.
DUI / DWI Charges
If you are charged with driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), and possesion of alcohol during a traffic stop these are much more serious charges and you should have a lawyer represent you.
Possession of Drugs, Alcohol, or Firearms while Driving
If you are stopped by a Maryland State Police trooper, or other law enforcement officer, and are charged with possession of drugs, alcohol, or firearms, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Driving while Uninsured
In Maryland, all drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of insurance. It is against the law in Maryland to drive uninsured. For more information about Maryland's vehicle insurance requirements and the fines and penalties for driving uninsured, visit the MVA website Insurance Requirements for Maryland Vehicles page. Give us a call if you have been charged with driving while uninsured in Maryland and would like an attorney to represent you.
Driving with a Suspended License
The duration of your license suspension and your reinstatement requirements will vary depending on your violation. If you are stopped while driving with a suspended or revoked license this is a serious offense carrying with it 12 points (Maryland Courts pdf), jail time, and a fine for the first offense. The possible jail time and fines go up for subsequent offenses. For more information on driving with a suspended license in Maryland, visit the MVA website Suspended License in Maryland page.
Driving without a License
Maryland laws require that everyone have a valid license or learner's permit before driving a vehicle in Maryland. Driving without a license is a serious offense. Driving without a valid driver's license is a criminal offense. It is a misdemeanor and not a felony and is still a jailable offense, even if you don't have a criminal record. Any person convicted of a misdemeanor for the violation of any of the provisions of the Maryland Vehicle Law is subject to a fine of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to 2 months, or both. See Code § 16-101 / § 27-101 for more information.
Using Handheld Devices While Driving
Unless you are involved in an accident, you probably won't receive any points for this type of violation. Unfortunately, this is considered a moving violation and your insurance may still be impacted. If you received a ticket for using a handheld device while driving, give us a call and find out how I can help you decide which options would be best for your particular circumstances.
If you are charged with "Driver using hands to use handheld telephone while motor vehicle is in motion" you could be facing a fine ranging from $83 to $160 depending on whether this is your first, second, or third offense. Court costs and insurance rate increases could be even more costly.
Speeding Tickets
Whether this is your first speeding ticket, or you received others in the past, you may feel better having your own attorney represent you. Give my office a call and I will setup a time to meet with you. On your hearing date, I will be standing beside you in court, representing your interests and guiding you through the process. If the ticket was issued in Carroll County, you can park in our lot and we can walk over to the courthouse together.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving citations are issued when an officer sees someone driving in a manner that endangers other people or property. Behaviors include a variety of dangerous driving maneuvers such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, speeding, running red lights, running stop signs, improper passing, failing to yield the right of way, and driving on a roadway emergency lane.
Negligent Driving / Reckless Driving
Negligent or reckless driving charges are serious offenses. Contact us to setup an appointment and find out why it would be in your best interest to have an experienced attorney represent you.
Traffic Accidents
Charges resulting from traffic accidents are difficult to deal with on your own due to personal injuries and property damage that may have occurred. The sooner you hire your own attorney the better you will feel. Your attorney will carefully listen to your side and then be able to put together a case that best represents you and your family.
Moving Violations
If you are issued a ticket for any type of moving violation, give us a call. You may need legal counsel in order to prevent having your license suspended or revoked. In Maryland, the MVA can take action once you are convicted of a vehicle-related law violation. (Read More)
MVA Driver Record Expungements
If you have been convicted of violating certain traffic laws, you may be entitled to have some violations expunged from your driving record. Expungement refers to the removal of points and violations from a driver's record. For more information on having your records expunged, give us a call.
Contact the Law Offices of Gary W. Desper
If you need an experienced attorney to represent you with a serious traffic offense, motor vehicle charge, traffic ticket, or citation, give Gary W. Desper a call today at 410-876-4646 for your initial consultation.
The Law Offices of Gary W. Desper, Westminster, MD, Traffic Violations, Attorney at Law, Carroll County, MD, Westminster Lawyer
We represent clients facing a variety of traffic violations and traffic charges such as DUI charges, DWI charges, traffic tickets, traffic stops, traffic violations & tickets, citations, serious traffic offenses,
possession of drugs, alcohol, or firearms while driving, driving on a suspended or revoked license, driving without insurance, reckless driving charges, speeding tickets, and more.
Testimonials:
Gary did a great job for me today. I was in a very bad spot about to possibly lose my license but Gary really helped me out and now I can live my life and support my family. He was very nice and explained everything very well. He took care if everything. If I ever need another lawyer I will definitely be back. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
---Cory D.
With my situation I had 3 different tickets all with 3 different cops. Gary was able to to set up a court date therefore the 3 officers would be able to appear on the same day. Was willing to work with me on my finincial situation. Gary strongly recommended things out of me that I should do to appear very nice in the court. Needless to say I am very happy with the ending resuslts and thankful for all the hardwork Gary and his secretary do.Highly highly reccomend!
---Brandy Z.
My son (who is 18 ) and I were extremely pleased with the outcome of my son's case. He did everything that Gary suggested to receive a lighter sentence for what could have possibly ruined his adult driving record. Gary's fee is very reasonable.
---Alisha R.
I had gotten myself in a big mess being involved in an accident and facing serious charges I have to say I was worried beyond words that I would be taken from my family...my wife & 3 children! I meant with Gary and discussed my situation and he agreed I was in a mess...Gary worked with me and kept me posted on changes and what position I should take..he had my trial moved and was on top of other things that could have swayed my trial one way or another. Then came the day....I sat in court with him & my wife expecting the worse...Gary made some quick decisions and everything went in my favor! Couldn't have asked for a better team to represent me! Dawn was exceptionally nice & Gary was always on point! Hopefully I won't need his services again but if I need help legally I will never turn to anyone else! Thank you Gary & Dawn! You guys are excellent!!!
---George K.
"I highly recommend Gary Desper as an attorney - and this is why:
My siblings and I lost both parents within 3 weeks of each other. To say the least, we were completely at a loss as to what to do. My one brother had Gary as his attorney and suggested we use him because he considered him very trustworthy and knew he wouldn't take advantage of our situation.
I was appointed personal representative of the estate, however I live out of state, which made it difficult. No problem - Gary basically took me by hand and alleviated the problems I faced. The family had to deal with cleaning out a house and 2 car garage (this took months to do). Gary arranged for dumpsters to be delivered when needed. He also introduced us to a realtor who was able to sell the house without problems. He also took care of bill payments and arranging a CPA to take care of the yearly income taxes.
Needless to say I could go on and on with the excellent job Gary did for our family. He is extremely trustworthy, competent, and every aspect of his dealings with us was fully documented and distributed to each of us. Thanks again Gary for giving me and my family a peace of mind!"
---Nancy D.
"Gary has been helping my wife Sandy and I for the past (2) years on Estate Law and also with Court representation on a very personal matter. He literally saved us thousands. Gary is not just a good lawyer, he is a great lawyer. He is not only honest and knowledgeable – he goes the extra mile in explaining the Law so that the average person can understand it and weigh the best options. Without question, Sandy and I could not have gotten through these last 2 years without his guidance and committment. He is simply the best lawyer you will find in Maryland. Five stars plus five. Thanks Gary!"
---Pat & Sandy D.