You got a ticket: your options
- Pay it. Some tickets can be paid without going to court. Paying counts as a conviction, or as being found responsible (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-4.01). That can affect your license and your insurance.
- Go to court yourself. You can appear on your court date and speak for yourself.
- Talk to a lawyer first. A lawyer looks at the charge and your record, and explains what the outcomes could mean for your license and insurance. In some cases a lawyer can appear for you.
Your ticket lists the court date. Read it as soon as you get it, because the choices narrow once that date passes.
What happens if you do nothing
If you miss your court date or don’t pay what the court ordered, the court notifies the Division of Motor Vehicles. The DMV must then revoke your license (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-24.1). The license stays revoked until the charge is dealt with or the amount is paid.
How a lawyer can help, and when you may not need one
For a minor ticket with a clean record, paying it may be fine. A lawyer is worth a call when:
- the speed is well over the limit, or the charge is more serious than speeding
- you already have points or other tickets on your record
- you drive for work, or hold a commercial license
- you’re from out of state and can’t easily come back for court
Speeding tickets, your license and your insurance
A conviction can add points to your North Carolina license and, separately, raise your insurance. How much depends on the charge and your record. Christine explains those effects for your ticket before you decide.
How the fee is set
The fee depends on the charge and the court. You’ll see it in writing before any work begins.
Questions people ask
Is it better to pay a fine or go to court?
It depends on what the conviction would do to your license and insurance. Paying is quicker, but it’s a conviction. Ask before you pay.
Is it worth getting a lawyer for a speeding ticket in NC?
For a minor ticket and a clean record, often not. For a high speed, a commercial license or a record with other tickets, it’s worth a call.
Contact us
Call 980-243-4470 with your ticket in hand, or request a time online. Christine reviews each matter and tells you whether the firm can take it on. See criminal defense for other charges.
Responsible attorney: Christine Hart (North Carolina), 122 N. McDowell Street, Charlotte, NC 28204.