Top Kenosha Traffic Defense Attorney

35 Years Defending Traffic Violations in Wisconsin

Traffic violations can often be seen mostly as an annoyance. Many people pay their fines and move on with their lives without considering the consequences. Paying your fine in any traffic violation is an admission of guilt which puts demerit points on your driving record. Those points can lead to a spike in your insurance premiums. Too many points accumulated over a set period of time can result in the loss of your driver’s license. Furthermore, some traffic violations become criminal matters that are charged as misdemeanors or even felonies which call for the services of a competent defender.

Why Trust Our Kenosha Traffic Defense Team?

At the Law Office of John Anthony Ward, we have a long history of successfully handling all kinds of criminal and traffic violations for clients throughout the area. Attorney John Anthony Ward has been in practice since 1985 and has conducted more than 200 jury trials. Our firm is well-versed in Wisconsin law and familiar with the local court systems that handle traffic tickets as well as more serious criminal violations. As a skilled defender in the local courts, our Kenosha traffic crimes attorney knows how to fight for your best outcome in any traffic matter.

Traffic violation? Contact Law Office of John Anthony Ward at (262) 205-6599 for a free initial consultation with our Wisconsin traffic lawyer about your ticket.

Understanding Wisconsin's Traffic Points System

Examples of points for a standard driver’s license include:

• Three points for driving one to 10 mph above the posted limit

• Six points for driving 11 to 19 mph above the posted limit

• Four points for driving too fast in bad weather

• Three points for an illegal U-turn

• Four points for failing to yield right-of-way

• Three points for failing to give a proper signal

• Three points for tailgating

Commercial driver’s license holders as well as motorcyclists are subject to their own point system.

Strategies to Contest a Speeding Ticket in Wisconsin

If you have received a speeding ticket in Wisconsin, you have the right to contest it. Here are some steps to take to fight a speeding ticket in Wisconsin:

1. Plead “not guilty”: Enter a “not guilty” plea by mail or in-person before your arraignment date on the ticket.
2. Be proactive and request a court date: Once you receive your speeding ticket, you have the option to either pay the fine or contest it in court. If you choose to contest it, you will need to request a court date.
3. Gather evidence: To contest your speeding ticket, you will need to provide evidence that proves you were not speeding or that the ticket was issued in error. This can include eyewitness testimony, dashcam footage, notes regarding serious errors on the ticket (location of incident, vehicle information, or type of statute cited), inconsistent information in the officer’s report, or other documentation.
4. Consult with a Kenosha traffic lawyer: An experienced speeding ticket lawyer in Wisconsin can help you understand your legal options and develop a strong defense strategy.

If you are facing a speeding ticket or other traffic violation in Wisconsin, don't hesitate to contact us today to schedule your free consultation with one of our Kenosha traffic lawyers. We are committed to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

License Suspension Risks for Wisconsin Traffic Tickets

Traffic citations in Wisconsin will result in demerit points and, if you accumulate 12 to 16 points in a year, your license can be suspended for two months. Accumulating 17 to 22 points in a year will result in a four-month suspension. Accumulating 23 to 30 points will result in a six-month suspension and any points above 30 will lead to a one-year suspension. The only way to reduce the points on your record is to take an approved traffic safety class which will result in a three-point reduction on your record. This can only be done once a year.

Defending Against Criminal Traffic Charges in Wisconsin

As mentioned above, some traffic offenses become criminal matters which can lead to a permanent criminal record, potential jail time, and excessive fines.

These can include:

• Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs

• DUI or OWI cases that cause property damage, bodily injury, or death

• Leaving the scene of an accident (hit-and-run)

• Fleeing a police officer

• Drag racing on public streets

• Reckless driving

• Driving on a suspended license

• Driving on a revoked license

As an example, driving on a suspended license may be charged as a misdemeanor carrying penalties of up to a year in jail and/or fines of up to $2,500. If you are pulled over for this type of violation, your vehicle may be towed unless another licensed driver is present. Repeat offenders will face increased penalties.

OWIs are charged as misdemeanors with increasing penalties for repeat offenders as well. A fourth OWI is charged as a felony that can lead to six years in prison.

Contact Kenosha's Premier Traffic Defense Firm

When facing any traffic crime, you have the right to your day in court. Having a tough defender in your corner can have a dramatic impact on how your case is resolved. Our firm has the experience and determination needed to fight relentlessly in seeking the best possible result.

At Law Office of John Anthony Ward, we have been providing award-winning representation to clients in Wisconsin since 1985. Our criminal traffic lawyer understands the nuances of Wisconsin traffic laws and has the expertise to represent you in court.

We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide you with a clear understanding of your legal options. We have a track record of success in representing clients in speeding ticket cases and other traffic violations in Wisconsin. Contact us today.

Need a legal opinion about your case? Call a Kenosha, WI traffic lawyer at (262) 205-6599 at Law Office of John Anthony Ward.