Traffic Violations Defense Lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio
Experienced attorneys dedicated to protecting your rights in assault and battery cases.
A traffic violation in Ohio may seem like a small inconvenience, but the consequences can be serious. Beyond fines, you could face points on your license, higher insurance rates, suspended driving privileges, and in some cases even criminal charges. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., our experienced criminal defense lawyers in Cleveland, Ohio, have spent more than 30 years helping drivers in Cuyahoga County and throughout Northeast Ohio protect their rights, licenses, and records. If you’ve been cited or charged, don’t simply pay the ticket — that can be treated as an admission of guilt. Call us right away for legal guidance.
Understanding Traffic Violations in Ohio
Ohio law divides traffic offenses into minor violations and serious traffic crimes. Both can affect your driving privileges and your future.
Common Traffic Violations
- Speeding, reckless operation, or aggressive driving
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Failure to yield or unsafe lane changes
- Driving without insurance or with a suspended license
- Distracted driving, including texting
- Expired plates or registration
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL) violations
Ohio’s Point System (ORC § 4510.036)
- 2 to 6 points are assigned depending on the violation
- 12 points within two years results in a six-month license suspension
- Accumulated points also lead to higher insurance premiums
More serious traffic offenses — like reckless driving, hit-and-run, or vehicular homicide — can result in misdemeanor or felony charges under the Ohio Revised Code.
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Facing legal challenges? Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.
How Traffic Violations Are Prosecuted in Ohio
For minor traffic tickets, prosecutors often rely on:
- Officer testimony and police reports
- Dashcam or bodycam footage
- Traffic and red-light camera evidence
For serious offenses, prosecutors may also use:
- Crash reconstruction reports
- Witness testimony
- Vehicle damage assessments
- Digital evidence such as GPS or cell phone records
Our firm knows how prosecutors build these cases — and more importantly, how to challenge them.
Defense Strategies
At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We develop defense strategies that fit your specific case. Depending on the charges, we may:
- Challenge the accuracy of radar or laser speed detection
- Question the legality of the traffic stop
- Dispute the officer’s observations or accident reconstruction
- Suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
- Negotiate for reduced charges or traffic school
- Pursue diversion programs to avoid points or suspension
Our goal is to protect your driving record and minimize or eliminate penalties whenever possible.
Penalties for Traffic Violations in Ohio
Moving Violations (Minor Offenses)
- 2–4 points added to your driving record
- Fines up to $150 per offense
- Risk of license suspension with repeat violations
Reckless Driving (ORC § 4511.20)
- First offense (MM): Fine up to $150 and 4 points
- Second offense (M4): Up to 30 days in jail, $250 fine, possible suspension
- Third offense (M3): Up to 60 days in jail, $500 fine, mandatory suspension
Driving Under Suspension (ORC § 4510.11)
- Misdemeanor offense
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Possible jail time and extended suspension
Hit-and-Run (Failure to Stop, ORC § 4549.02)
- Property damage only (M1): Up to 6 months in jail, $1,000 fine, 6 months–3 years suspension
- Injury involved (F5): 6–12 months in prison, up to $2,500 fine
- Serious injury or death (F3): 1–5 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine, possible permanent revocation
CDL Violations
- Stricter penalties apply to commercial drivers
- Even minor offenses can jeopardize a CDL
Important: Accumulating 12 or more points within two years results in an automatic six-month suspension.
Call or text 216-661-5050 today to start protecting your license and your future.
Collateral Consequences of Traffic Convictions
The impact of a conviction often goes far beyond court-ordered penalties. You may face:
- Skyrocketing insurance premiums
- Loss of a commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- Difficulty finding or keeping employment
- A permanent criminal record for misdemeanor-level violations
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Missed work for court dates and BMV hearings
Avoiding or reducing these consequences requires proactive defense.
Why Choose Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A.?
At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we prioritize your rights and freedom. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with personalized defense strategies that yield results.
Your Defense Starts Here
When facing criminal charges, having a dedicated and experienced defense team by your side is crucial. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we understand the stakes involved and are committed to building the strongest defense possible for you. Our team will work tirelessly to analyze every detail of your case and ensure your rights are protected.
We recognize that each case is unique, and we tailor our strategies to fit your specific situation. Our attorneys are skilled in navigating the complexities of criminal law, and we will guide you through every step of the legal process. With our support, you can feel confident in your defense and the choices you make.
Don’t leave your future to chance. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can begin crafting a robust defense strategy. We are here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the legal expertise you need to fight back against the charges.
Your freedom and reputation are on the line, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our commitment to you goes beyond just legal representation; we aim to be your trusted ally during this challenging time. Together, we will work towards the best possible outcome.
Take action now and let us help you reclaim control of your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building your strongest defense.
Get Your Free Consultation Today
Facing legal challenges? Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.
