Traffic Tickets

March 19, 2015

Jacksonville Criminal Defense Lawyer Tip# 405: Anyone Can Become a Defendant

Recently, there have been a series of shootings in Jacksonville. In some instances, there were people that were struck by gunfire. These violent stories regarding crime circulate quickly because of the shock value associated with them. Florida’s 10-20-life sentencing scheme also make these stories stand out. However, in my experience as a Jacksonville criminal defense lawyer, the average criminal case is not the one that makes the news. The defendant is not a scary person behind the trigger of a gun, but a normal, average Joe type that has made a bad decision in a single moment. Other times, it’s someone who hasn’t done a single thing wrong, but is instead the unfortunate victim of circumstance. Whether the crime is Racing/Reckless Driving; Assault/Battery; Possession of Marijuana; or Theft, anyone could find themselves in need of a criminal defense lawyer.

A criminal defense lawyer is important for someone that doesn’t have a history of being in trouble just as much as it is for the repeat offender. In some instances, a criminal defense attorney is able to point out circumstances that show clearly that a client is innocent and convince the State that no charges should be filed. Having charges thrown out without ever being filed is the best outcome, but is more likely to happen when your criminal defense lawyer has been brought in very soon after arrest. Other times, when the facts are against you, a good criminal defense attorney, with enough experience to properly evaluate your case, can help present mitigation and negotiate the best possible outcome for your situation.

At the Law Office of David M. Goldman, PLLC, we have criminal defense lawyers with years of experience that can help you or a loved one in your time of need. Initial consultations are always free. Whether you have traffic tickets, or something more serious, call us today at (904) 685-1200 to find out how we can help.

October 8, 2014

Death of a Florida ‘Speed Trap’

by David M. Goldman

Many Florida residents, and visitors, have felt the sting of fines associated with speeding tickets after driving the stretch of highway 301 between Jacksonville and Gainesville. Waldo, Florida is one of the cities that this stretch of highway passes through. Of Waldo’s $1 million annual budget, approximately half came from funds generated through traffic citations, according to ABC News.

Travelers may now have relief when passing through the Waldo area. The Waldo Police Department, responsible for issuing a half million dollars in citations each year, has been dissolved. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s investigation into misconduct by the former chief of police (and the interim chief that replaced him briefly) may have led to the chief’s resignation (and, later, the interim chief’s resignation).

For assistance with civil traffic and criminal traffic offenses, experienced Jacksonville traffic ticket and criminal defense attorneys at the Law Office of David M. Goldman, PLLC are available for free initial consultations.

October 3, 2014

Hit and Run: Avoiding Leaving the Scene Charges in Florida

by David M. Goldman

If you’ve ever been in a crowded parking lot where space is limited, you know that you should be more careful than normal when maneuvering through the tight spaces that often accompany these situations. Misjudging the amount of space available to make a turn into a parking space, for instance, could easily result in a minor collision. So what are you required to do after you lightly swipe the car next to you? As a Jacksonville traffic attorney and criminal defense attorney, I’ve seen what can happen when people are unfamiliar with what they are required to do, or simply make the mistake of leaving the scene because they’re scared and nervous. Leaving the scene without doing certain things that Florida law requires of a driver involved in an accident, is a criminal traffic offense that could lead to you being arrested. So how do you avoid being charged with the crime of Leaving the Scene of an Accident?

Damage Caused to Attended Vehicle or Property
Florida statute 316.061 requires that the driver of a car that collides with another car or some other property, where damage occurs, to immediately stop and provide the driver’s information to driver of the other vehicle or property owner. Consider the crowded parking lot example above. If you are attempting to park in a crowded parking lot, and swipe a parked car next to you, if there is someone sitting in the car, you should (1) stop at the scene; (2) provide the other driver with your name, address, and registration number for your car; (3) if asked, allow the other driver of property owner to see your license; and (4) report the crash to police. Failing to do what you are required to do prior to leaving is a second degree misdemeanor.

Damage Caused to Unattended Vehicle or Property
Florida statute 316.063 mandates that when there is a crash that involves damage to an unattended car or other property, you must (1) stop at the scene; (2) locate the owner of the other car or property in order to provide the owner with your name, address, and registration number for your car [if the owner cannot be found, leave this information in writing in a place that the owner can easily find it]; and (3) report the crash to police without any unnecessary delay.
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September 19, 2012

Amanda Bynes makes Headlines Again!

by David M. Goldman

As a Jacksonville Traffic Attorney I cannot stress enough to my clients NOT to drive once their license has been suspended or revoked. Monday I reported about Ms. Bynes recent run in with the law and how her license would be suspended. I find it hard to believe she would be unaware of the status of her license and therefore, when she was pulled over recently she was cited for driving on a suspended license and her vehicle was impounded.

This incident with the law follows her two pending counts of hit-and-run. Although she has a some hurdles to cross before she can put all this behind her, the advise and assistance of her Attorney could prove to be invaluable in her case.

As a Jacksonville Traffic Attorney, I handle all sorts of traffic violations; speeding, careless driving, DWSL, etc. Therefore, if you find yourself with an unwanted traffic citation, contact a Jacksonville Attorney who can review your citation and make the proper determinations in moving forward.

September 17, 2012

Hollywood Actress, Amanda Bynes, Faces Criminal Charges following another alleged Hit and Run

by David M. Goldman

Children and Adults, alike, look up to and aspire to famous Actors and Actresses. But, when their good name is pulled through the mud, we all begin to question how innocent are these movie stars anyway. One recent example is Amanda Bynes who made her fame and fortune on the Nickelodeon channel programming. She just recently had her driver’s license revoked by the State of California following three (3) alleged driving related incidents.

Her first incident stemmed from a collision with a police cruiser in April of this year. She was subsequently charged with DUI, but has rebutted all allegations that she was “under the influence.” Bynes went as far as to tweet President Obama, “..I don’t drink…” Her other two incidents are cases of hit-and-runs but she also denies any wrongdoing.

Although a California case, her same issues are relevant here in Jacksonville as well. As a Jacksonville Criminal Attorney, clients come to me with all sort of driving issues and I work diligently to correct any wrongs and get the best possible outcome, given the circumstances. In Florida, if you incur too many points or three or more citations for driving on a suspended or revoked license within 5 years you could be labeled HTO. As a HTO your license is suspended for 4 years! However, as a Jacksonville Criminal Attorney I can review your driving history and determine where I can provide assistance and fight to get your license reinstated.

September 14, 2012

I received notice that I am a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO). What does that mean?

by David M. Goldman

Do you have a not so perfect driving record? Have you been cited or arrested for driving without a license or when your license is revoked? Have you accrued too many points on your license for it to be valid? Have you received notice that you are labeled as a Habitual Traffic Offender and therefore will have your license revoked for four (4) years? If you answered “yes” to any of the prior questions, the assistance and guidance of a Jacksonville Criminal Attorney may be right for you. I can review you driving record, determine how to proceed forward, and fight to get your license back!

There are a few different events that can lead to HTO status, all of which must occur within a five-year period. The most common is to have three offenses of driving while license is suspended or revoked. It is important to remember that this includes convictions as well as cases where withheld adjudication. Some people make the mistake of believing that because adjudication was withheld and no conviction occurred that these cases are not counted when it comes to determining whether someone is should is a HTO. The HTO sentencing guidelines do examine how many points your license has, they count your convictions and withholds instead. Further, no distinction is made as to whether or not you “knowingly” drove while your license was suspended or not.

HTO status lasts for five years and requires the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DMV) to revoke your license, but there are things that may be done to get you back on the road. After sufficient time and class work, a hardship license may be issued to allow you some right to drive, but with restrictions. After the five year revocation is over, you must petition the DMV to have your license reinstated. A hearing may be required to determine whether or not your reinstatement can be granted or if you should have an alternative, restricted license.

August 24, 2012

How do I fight a Florida Traffic Ticket?

by David M. Goldman

Have you received a Florida Traffic Ticket? Do you not want points on your Florida Driver’s License? Are you afraid if you get another Ticket you License will be Suspended? Can you not afford an insurance increase? If you answered “YES” to any of the previous questions, you will want to contact a Florida Traffic Ticket Lawyer today.

As a Florida Traffic Ticket Lawyer, I assist my clients in numerous counties around Florida. Through my knowledge and know-how I work with my clients and the Courts to withhold adjudication and prevent points on my client’s license and increases in insurance premiums. However, I cannot guarantee results, I can reassure my clients that I will do my best to resolve their Florida Traffic Ticket in a manner that is amicable for my Client.

Sometimes, my Clients call me too late (i.e. after they paid the fine) and I cannot assist them. However, if you call soon after you receive the ticket and within the days allowable, I will assist you in getting a withhold of adjudication. Furthermore, did you know that simply paying a traffic ticket is an automatic GUILTY? Therefore, points are going to be accessed on your license and your insurance company will take the Florida Traffic Ticket into consideration. So, don’t just simply pay the ticket and walk away, contact a Florida Traffic Ticket Lawyer today!

August 2, 2012

Clay County DUI Check Point Landed 22 In Jail

by David M. Goldman

Last week Clay County Sheriff’s Office conducted a DUI Check point that resulted in 22 being arrested and jailed. The arrests were not just for DUI, but for numerous other offenses. Don’t become a statistic; do NOT drink and drive.

As Jacksonville heads out into this weekend, beware of JSO activity and roadblocks that may be in place. However, the best policy is not to drink or drive. Unfortunately, some Jacksonville motorist decide they are “good” and when they are caught by police, you should call a Jacksonville Criminal Attorney to represent your best interests in Court. The sooner I get involved the more time I have to mitigate the offense and speak with the State.

The DUI standard in Florida is .08 BAC. That is a very low standard and most people do not “feel” the effects of alcohol at that level. However, you could still be arrested. As a Jacksonville Criminal Lawyer, I advise everyone if you are going to drink do not drive. Get a Designated Driver, Stay at that Location, Take a Cab, or Get a Hotel Room.

August 1, 2012

Florida Drivers Frequently Refuse Breathalyzer

by David M. Goldman

According to a report by WFTV, four out of every 10 Florida drivers stopped by police for suspected drunk driving refuse to submit to breathalyzer tests. Something that many people may not be aware of is how severe the penalty can be just for refusing to take the breath test.

Florida’s current law regarding breath tests, known as Florida’s Implied Consent Law, states that any motorist who simply accepts the “privilege… of operating a motor vehicle within this state is… deemed to have given his or her consent to submit to… [a] test of his or her breath for the purpose of determining the alcoholic content of his or her blood or breath.”

The condensed version of the law means that if you choose to drive in the state of Florida, you have already consented to a breathalyzer test and if you refuse to take one then you can and will be punished. The punishments can be quite severe as well; with a first refusal punishable by a suspension of a driver’s license and a second refusal being considered a first-degree misdemeanor and a criminal offense.

July 26, 2012

What can I do If I am in HTO Status?

by David M. Goldman

No one is perfect, however when our imperfections lead us to too many traffic offenses, we can lose our Florida Driver’s license for five years. This is most often known as being a “Habitual Traffic Offender” or “HTO”. The State of Florida feels that people who make it a habit to violate traffic laws should be strongly discouraged from driving on our roads and should be faced with a firm punishment.

There are a few different events that can lead to HTO status, all of which must occur within a five-year period. The most common is to have three offenses of driving while license is suspended or revoked. It is important to remember that this includes convictions as well as cases where withheld adjudication. Some people make the mistake of believing that because adjudication was withheld and no conviction occurred that these cases are not counted when it comes to determining whether someone is should is a HTO. The HTO sentencing guidelines do examine how many points your license has, they count your convictions and withholds instead. Further, no distinction is made as to whether or not you “knowingly” drove while your license was suspended or not.

HTO status lasts for five years and requires the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DMV) to revoke your license, but there are things that may be done to get you back on the road. After sufficient time and class work, a hardship license may be issued to allow you some right to drive, but with restrictions. After the five year revocation is over, you must petition the DMV to have your license reinstated. A hearing may be required to determine whether or not your reinstatement can be granted or if you should have an alternative, restricted license.