Speeding Ticket Attorney in Howard County
Your Trusted Partner to Fight Speeding Tickets in MD
At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake, we know how receiving a speeding ticket in Howard County can disrupt your peace of mind. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team is adept at offering strategic defenses to protect your driving record and mitigate the effects of a speeding violation.
Our deep understanding of local traffic laws and court procedures empowers us to craft targeted defenses uniquely suited to your situation. Howard County, governed by the Maryland Department of Transportation, enforces specific speeding regulations that can result in significant fines and points on your driving record.
With Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake by your side, you’ll benefit from our extensive knowledge of these laws, and our commitment to minimizing their impact on your life. By choosing us, you're opting for a dependable ally in legal defense, ensuring your case receives the utmost care and attention.
Our experienced speeding ticket attorney in Howard County is a former prosecutor who knows how to challenge citations effectively. Schedule your free consultation today by calling (410) 927-5137 or online.
Understanding Speeding Laws in Maryland
In Maryland, the laws governing speeding are outlined in the Maryland Transportation Article. The state has a general provision that prohibits driving at a speed that is not "reasonable and prudent" under the conditions. Beyond that, there are specific maximum speed limits for different types of roadways and districts.
These laws establish maximum speed limits for different types of roads and driving conditions, such as:
- 65 or 70 mph on interstate highways
- 55 mph on divided highways
- 50 mph on undivided highways
- 30 mph in business districts
- 25 mph in residential areas
Drivers may receive a citation for exceeding the posted limit or for traveling too fast for road or weather conditions, even if they are below the posted speed. A traffic ticket attorney in Howard County can analyze the specifics of the citation to identify potential weaknesses or errors that may help in your defense.
See Why We're the Right Choice
Reasons to Choose Our Firm
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We approach every case as a team.
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Every initial consultation is free and no-obligation.
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We are available for you 24/7.
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We are a team of former prosecutors and know how the other side thinks.
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We have in-house payment plan options on qualifying cases.
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We are highly recommended and awarded by various associations.
A High-Quality Reputation
Read Reviews from Real People
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"Will Be In Good Hands"I never hesitate to refer any potential clients with criminal defense needs to Justin Lake or David Zwanetz- Joe M.
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"Easy to work with"Prompt, professional, and easy to work with as a client.- Zach S.
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"Great Lawyer With Ethics and Morals"From my 8-month experience, Mr. Justin Lake is a great lawyer with ethics and morals. Even more a good man in a time there seems to be a shortage of. Highly recommend!- L.W.
At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake (SZL) we believe in thinking differently from most lawyers and law firms. We help our clients understand and accept their legal situation; we work with them to confront and improve that situation, while seeking the best outcome available at law. We recognize that each client is a unique individual, each deserving of the highest client/customer service; and we just happen to get our clients excellent results while we deliver that exceptional service.
Penalties of a Speeding Conviction in Maryland
The severity of a speeding charge is determined by how far over the speed limit you were allegedly driving. The higher the speed, the more serious the charge, and the more severe the penalties. A knowledgeable speeding ticket attorney in Howard County will meticulously analyze the specific statute under which you were charged to build a strong defense.
Penalties can include:
- Fines: Fines can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on the specific charge.
- MVA Points: A conviction will result in a specific number of points being assessed against your license. The points increase with the severity of the offense. For example:
- 1-9 mph over the limit: 1 point
- 10-19 mph over the limit: 2 points
- 20-29 mph over the limit: 5 points
- 30+ mph over the limit: 5 points (and often a must-appear offense)
- License Suspension/Revocation: Accumulating 8 points within a two-year period can result in a license suspension, and accumulating 12 points can result in a license revocation.
- Incarceration: For certain must-appear offenses, a conviction can result in jail time, though this is rare for a first-time speeding offense.
Building a Strategic Defense to Fight Speeding Tickets
Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. As a seasoned Howard County speeding ticket lawyer, we will leverage every possible defense, including:
- Questioning the Accuracy of the Device: We can challenge the accuracy of the radar gun or LIDAR device used to measure your speed. These devices must be properly calibrated and operated by a trained officer. If the device was not properly maintained or if the officer's training was not up-to-date, we can argue the reading is unreliable.
- Insufficient Evidence: We will challenge the prosecution's evidence, arguing that it does not prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. For example, if the police officer cannot positively identify you as the driver, or if the evidence is weak, we can use this to create reasonable doubt.
- Mistaken Identity: We can argue that you have been misidentified as the person who was driving the vehicle. This defense is particularly strong when the identification is based on a single, fleeting observation.
- Necessity: We can argue that you were speeding due to an emergency or to avoid harm.
- Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your rights, such as an unlawful stop.
Why Choose Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake in Howard County
If you’ve received a speeding ticket in Howard County, reach out to Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake for a comprehensive consultation. Our friendly, knowledgeable team will guide you through the legal process with clarity and reassurance.
- Tier 1 Recognition: Recognized as a Tier 1 Baltimore DUI/DWI defense firm, affirming our capabilities in handling traffic violations.
- 24/7 Availability: Our team is accessible around the clock to address urgent concerns and offer peace of mind.
- Client-Focused Approach: We emphasize personalized service, ensuring that each case benefits from our collaborative team strengths.
- Industry Accolades: We hold Superb Avvo Ratings and commendations from U.S. News & World Report, highlighting our commitment to excellence.
Call us at (410) 927-5137 to start your journey toward resolution today. We’re here to alleviate stress, enhance understanding, and navigate the complexities on your behalf with confidence.
