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Got a Speeding Ticket? ­ Defend Yourself

We’ve all done it. Speed. Sometimes you’re in a hurry, another times you just aren’t paying attention to how fast you’re going. And sometimes, it just feels good to go fast. Whatever the reason, most of us have been stopped at one time or another for speeding. While speeding certainly isn’t a felony, if you’re charged and it sticks, you could be in for a lot of trouble. Depending on where you get the citation and how many speeding citations you’ve received, there could be significant fines, driving school, and a considerable hike in your car insurance.

Worst Case Scenario

In Rhode Island, your license can be suspended for speeding. Rhode Island law gives Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal Magistrates wide discretion regarding the punishment of drivers who speed. A suspended license can have a major impact on your livelihood and the well-being of your family. If you encounter a “hanging” judge, you may very well find yourself unable to drive for quite some time.

Fines for Speeding in Rhode Island

• First Offense. Speeding 1-10 mph over the speed limit: $95 fine. Speeding 11+ mph over the speed limit: an additional fine of $10 per every mile over and a minimum $205 fine. 
• Second Offense. Speeding 1-10 mph over the speed limit: $10 per mile for each mile over the speed limit. Speeding 11+ mph over the speed limit: $15 per every mile over, if within twelve (12) months of the first offense.
• Third Offense. Speeding 1-10 mph over the speed limit: $15 per mile for each mile over the speed limit and a potential 30-day license suspension. Speeding 11+ mph over the speed limit: $20 per mile for each mile over the speed limit and a potential 60-day license suspension.
• Fourth Offense. If you receive a fourth offense of speeding within 18 months, you are facing up to a 2-year license revocation and 1-year license suspension. Penalties also include up to $1,000 in fines, 60 hours of community service, and 60 hours of a driving training course.

Your Best Defense

Given the penalties, it is always in your best interests to challenge speeding tickets. Hiring a lawyer versed in the rules and penalty exceptions can significantly reduce penalties and charges. Accept charges without counsel, and you might be opening yourself up to some serious fines and other penalties. Using exceptions, including your good driving record, a good attorney can get a reduction in penalties and often a dismissal of charges.

The Calvino Law Associates Promise

If you’ve decided to contest a speeding ticket, or just need someone to advise you whether or not you should proceed, the attorneys at Calvino Law Associates are here to help. We have an impressive record in defending clients charged with speeding violations. If you’ve received a citation, don’t take it lying down. Let us fight for you. Call us at (401) 205-3733 or use our online contact form.

We serve Providence, North Kingstown, and the surrounding areas in Rhode Island.

Calvino Law Associates

373 Elmwood Ave.

Providence, RI 02907

(401) 205-3733

Criminal Defense in Rhode Island: You Want the Best Lawyer

You’re caught going a few miles over the speed limit. Getting involved with the law for minor infractions is one thing but being charged with a criminal offense is a big deal. It means being in for a lot more than an annoying court appearance and fine. Criminal charges are serious. They can be life-changing and stay on your record for years. Without proper representation, you may find yourself facing serious jail time. If you are charged with a serious crime, the first thing you need to do is hire a good criminal attorney.

Duties and Role of a Defense Attorney

The term is self-explanatory. As the name implies, it is the defense attorney’s job to defend you from the charges and see that your rights are preserved along the way. You are entitled by law to an attorney whose role includes a variety of actions, including:

• Conducting research and analyzing a case to determine a probable outcome while devising an effective strategy to defend your clients in court 
• Representing clients at arraignments, hearings, and court trials 
• Interpreting laws for clients and helping them to understand their legal options
• Presenting evidence to a judge and jury should the case go to trial 
• Developing strategies to resolve cases as favorably and cost-effectively as possible for clients 
• Constructing arguments and representing clients in all criminal proceedings 

What to Look for in an Attorney

A good attorney constantly keeps abreast of new developments in the legal field. In many instances, they attend professional meetings and seminars to keep up with the latest changes in legislation concerning the defense of clients charged with criminal offenses.

• Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree 
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school 
• State bar admission
• Legal Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 
• Strong research and public speaking skills 
• Superior decision-making and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to work autonomously or with a team of attorneys to develop case strategies 
• Adaptable, with strong attention to detail 
• Aims to resolve cases as quickly and favorably as possible 
• Prepares and drafts legal documents, including legal briefs and appeals 
• Negotiates plea deals, punishments, and settlements 

Court Appointed Attorneys

You may not have the financial means to afford a private attorney. If that’s the case, the court will appoint one. Contrary to popular assumptions, court-appointed lawyers meet all the essential legal requirements. However, it is to your benefit to seek out the best representation possible.

What Do Defense Attorneys Charge?

The average cost for a felony defense is between $10,000 and $20,000. In Rhode Island, charges run between $150 and $450 an hour. Given what is at stake, good representation can mean the difference between long jail terms and, in some cases, suspended or abridged sentences and the best outcome of all, acquittal.

We Thrive on Criminal Defense

If you live in Rhode Island or Southern Massachusetts and are accused of a crime, don’t panic—Calvino Law Associates are here to help. Our expert criminal law attorneys will thoroughly review the details of your case and fight for the justice you deserve. Call us at (401) 205-3733 or use our online contact form. We serve Providence, North Kingstown, and the surrounding areas in Rhode Island.

Calvino Law Associates

373 Elmwood Ave.

Providence, RI 02907

(401) 205-3733