Some drivers in Tulare and Fresno Counties are eligible for a limited amnesty beginning on October 1, but motorists who were looking for permanent relief from high penalty assessments may be sorely disappointed.

There are several different levels in the program. People who are currently making payments are eligible for drivers’ license reinstatement, but no financial reduction. Outstanding citations are eligible for a 50 percent reduction, or 80 percent, if the defendant’s income is less than 125 percent of the poverty level. That’s just under $15,000 a year for an individual and about $30,000 a year for a family of four. People who receive public assistance are also eligible for the larger reduction.

The amnesty does not apply to reckless driving citations and a few others.

Permanent Amnesty

Pretty much everything the amnesty does, an attorney can do better. And, instead of watching the calendar, all you have to do is pick up the phone or go online.

Simply by filing a form, in most cases, a lawyer can get your license reinstated practically on the spot. That’s significant, because being caught driving with a suspended license could mean jail time and almost always means vehicle impoundment. And, given the thousands of violations in the Vehicle Code, even careful drivers cannot travel more than a few miles without breaking at least one rule.

An attorney can also get the overall fine reduced. Most courts are willing to waive the $300 civil penalty if the defendant appears in court, and since the state keeps most of the penalty assessment money, local prosecutors are typically willing to make a deal, if it means avoiding a time-consuming trial.

In fact, attorneys can do more than the amnesty. In addition to negotiating with prosecutors to get the charges reduced, which reduces the points, aggressive lawyers quickly identify any legal or factual defenses, and may be able to get the tickets thrown out.

Getting Legal Help

The aggressive lawyers at Bigger & Harman, APC, are committed to giving individuals a voice when dealing with speeding and traffic tickets. Call today at 661-859-1177 or email attorney@markbigger.com to receive the personal professional attention you deserve. En español, llame al 661-376-0214.