Most tickets written in Columbus, from I-270 to High Street near Ohio State, are filed at the Franklin County Municipal Court on South High Street. At McNamee Defense, our traffic violations lawyer in Columbus defends drivers in that courthouse in cases ranging from speeding citations to OVI charges.
What Sets McNamee Defense Apart in Columbus?
Our work is thorough, results-oriented, and mindful of your privacy. We would rather resolve a case through negotiation than through a costly public trial, but we prepare for court when needed. Behind that approach is the more than 15 years that Colin McNamee has spent advising people and organizations on high-stakes matters.
Common Traffic Violations in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus police and state troopers write tickets on local roads. Common charges include the following violations:
- Speeding
- Running a red light
- Failure to yield
- Texting while driving
- Driving under suspension
Most carry a fine and no jail time for a first offense. Driving under suspension is more serious and requires a court appearance.
Which Traffic Violations Can Be Felonies in Ohio?
Some driving charges move to the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas. Those cases call for felony defense and include:
- A fourth OVI within 10 years
- Fleeing a police officer in some circumstances.
- Leaving a crash that caused serious injury or death
- Aggravated vehicular assault
- Aggravated vehicular homicide
A felony conviction can mean prison and a license suspension lasting years. These cases usually begin with a grand jury indictment.
Consequences of Criminal Traffic Violations in Ohio
Criminal traffic charges can result in jail time and a conviction on your record. A first-degree misdemeanor carries up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Ohio BMV Point System
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) adds points to your record after most moving violation convictions, and too many will cost you your license. A speeding ticket is worth 0, 2, or 4 points. Going more than 10 mph over the speed limit in a 55 mph or faster zone, or more than 5 mph over the speed limit in a slower zone, is 2 points.
Driving 30 mph or more over the limit is 4 points under Ohio Revised Code 4510.036. Ohio suspends your license for six months when you reach 12 points within two years. A warning letter goes out at 6 points.
Why Hire Our Traffic Attorney to Fight Every Ticket?
Even a 2-point ticket counts toward that 12-point limit. Depending on the facts, our Columbus traffic violation attorney may be able to:
- Ask for a dismissal
- Seek a diversion program that ends with no points
- Negotiate a lesser charge
- Argue for a lower fine
- Reduce the points
Results depend on your driving history and the evidence. The City Attorney’s office usually prosecutes Columbus tickets.
Call McNamee Defense Before Paying a Columbus Traffic Ticket
Paying a ticket online counts as a guilty plea, and the points go on your record. Have our traffic violations lawyer in Columbus look at the citation first. A consultation with McNamee Defense is free, and the number is (614) 782-8889. You can also contact us online.