Criminal Traffic
This Is Not a Regular Traffic Ticket
A criminal traffic charge works differently than a standard ticket. The process is different. The stakes are different. And just paying it is not an option.
Send Me Your TicketCommon Criminal Traffic Charges
- → Reckless Driving
- → Leaving the Scene of an Accident
- → Driving While License Suspended (With Knowledge)
- → No Valid Driver's License
What Most People Don't Realize
Most Traffic Matters Are Civil. Criminal Traffic Is Not.
A regular speeding ticket is a civil infraction. You can pay it, fight it, or take traffic school. Criminal traffic is a misdemeanor or felony charge — the same category as other crimes. That means a different court process, a potential criminal record, and consequences that follow you well beyond a fine or a point on your license.
The Charges
Four Criminal Traffic Charges I Handle
01
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor. It is not the same as careless driving. The difference matters — in how it's charged, how it's handled in court, and what it does to your record.
Learn more →02
Leaving the Scene
Leaving the scene of an accident — even a minor one — can be a serious criminal charge. Some people drive away before they realize what happened. Others panic. Either way, what you do next matters.
Learn more →03
DWLS — With Knowledge
Driving while your license is suspended is a misdemeanor when you knew — or should have known — your license was suspended. Repeated charges can escalate to a felony. Most people do not realize this when they get stopped.
Learn more →04
No Valid Driver's License
Driving without ever having been issued a valid license is a criminal misdemeanor in Florida. It is a separate charge from driving on a suspended license, and it carries its own process and consequences.
Learn more →The Process
Criminal Traffic Requires a Court Appearance
You cannot pay a criminal traffic charge online and move on. These cases go through the criminal court system. That means a formal arraignment, court dates, and a process that can result in a conviction on your record — or an outcome that avoids that.
In most cases, I can appear on your behalf so you do not have to take time away from work or family for every court date.
What's at Stake
A Conviction Has Real Consequences
- — A criminal misdemeanor or felony on your record
- — License suspension or revocation
- — Fines, court costs, and probation
- — Impact on employment and background checks
- — Immigration consequences in some situations
- — Escalating charges if there are prior offenses
How I Can Help
Understanding the Charge Is the First Step
Criminal traffic charges can feel overwhelming, especially if you have never dealt with the criminal court system before. My job is to explain exactly what you are facing, what the realistic options are, and what I can do to help you get the best possible outcome.
I have handled these cases for over 25 years — first as a prosecutor, then as a defense attorney. I know how this process works and what matters at each step.
Takes less than a minute. I'll tell you what actually matters.
Also on This Site
Related Situations
Suspended License
If your license is suspended, the first step is understanding why. Different causes require different solutions before you can legally drive again.
Suspended License →Traffic Tickets
Not every traffic matter is criminal. If you received a civil traffic citation, here is what to consider before you decide what to do.
Traffic Tickets →