If you think your license is suspended, but you’re not entirely sure, the best way to find out if your license has been suspended in California is to go straight to the source – the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You’ll need to request a copy of your driver’s record. There are three ways to do that: Online at dmv.ca.gov($2 fee). By mail by completing a Request for Your Own...
Yes. In People vs. Goldsmith (2014), the California Supreme Court ruled red light camera tickets constitutional. The ruling also stated that images taken by red light cameras are proof of traffic violations and are considered court evidence (e.g., for speeding tickets in Los Angeles). Goldsmith believed the evidence from a red light camera should be considered hearsay. He argued that it constitutes an inadequate foundation for evidence, but the court...
You could face failure to appear charges if you do not go to court or pay your fine after receiving a traffic ticket in California. In this situation, you could face criminal charges. You could also have a bench warrant issued in your name. Fortunately, you may be able to clear your warrant. Use this article to find out how to clear a failure to appear charge in California. Alternatively,...
Drivers in California know the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the government agency responsible for issuing driver’s licenses. However, the DMV can also revoke driving privileges. If your license has been suspended or revoked, you can request a driver safety hearing to challenge the decision. These hearings are overseen by DMV Driver Safety Hearing Officers. They will ultimately decide whether or not you should be allowed to drive. To...
Being pulled over by the police is nerve-wracking, even when everything goes well. In many cases, police will ask to search your car, demand that you take a breathalyzer test, or ask probing questions that are designed to make you say something you shouldn't. If you’re stopped, you should be polite, say as little as possible, and call a lawyer as soon as you can. The Simmrin Law Group works...
People get traffic tickets every day, whether for speeding, running a red light, reckless driving, DUI, or even parking tickets. California traffic tickets come with notoriously high fines, as the state, counties, and cities use traffic fines as revenue generators. While most of us grudgingly pay for our traffic tickets, it’s also easy to forget to pay the ticket. Unfortunately, life gets in the way. And for many people, money...
In California, a conviction for reckless driving is considered a misdemeanor traffic violation. However, you could still face severe consequences. This infraction has serious penalties, including points on your license and jail time. Even a first offense could negatively impact your life. However, previous convictions or an injury could make the punishment exponentially worse. Learn more about the penalties for reckless driving in California and what you should do...