When we think of asset protection, we usually think of our bank accounts, our real property, and our investment accounts. But what about our freedom and or our license to drive? Aren’t those assets worth protecting?
Now when I say “freedom,” I’m not talking about the freedom in the philosophical sense, I’m talking about actual freedom from incarceration. If you have been charged with a crime, this precious asset may be in jeopardy, and without it, your other assets may be in jeopardy as well.
What about your license to drive? How would the loss this asset affect those traditional assets mentioned above? For starters, without a license, how would you get work? How would you pay your bills? How would you contribute to your investment accounts without a source of income? The answer is simple; you can’t. Fortunately, The Law Offices of Richard Seward can now help those facing criminal and DUI charges and/or the loss of their license. In association with Joe Schodowski, criminal and traffic attorney, Rick can help you and your loved ones in defending against crimes and traffic tickets.
Most people when they are charged with a crime hire an attorney. However, most people when issued traffic infraction simply pay it or attempt to fight it on their own. I’ve seen it time and time again when non-lawyers attempt to fight their tickets. They go into court with what they believe to be a thoughtful argument and are quickly shot down by the judge. Not only are they out the fine of the ticket, they’ve wasted half a day of work.
What these people don’t know, and what those of you still reading this article now know, is that lawyers familiar with the traffic laws and the courts, can often times keep these tickets off your driving record and you don’t even have to show up to court. So, hiring an attorney can save you time and money. By preventing tickets from appearing on your driving record, your car insurance rates do not increase, thereby saving you money in the long run.
Your probably wondering “what you should do if you are stopped for speeding?” First, don’t ever admit you did anything wrong. When you are stopped, the officer knows you were speeding. Admitting this will only make it much harder to get your ticket dismissed. Second, and this goes along with the first, don’t make excuses. Saying things like “I’m late for work” or “I just wasn’t paying attention” will only hurt your chance of getting your ticket dismissed. Everything you say will be noted in the officer’s report. Third, be polite. When stopped by an officer people are understandably angry, but fight the urge to argue with the officer. Again, don’t admit anything and accept the ticket and be on your way. Third, check the contested hearing box on the back of the ticket and mail it in within 15 days of receiving the ticket. Doing nothing or failing to respond within 15 days will result in a finding of guilt. Finally, call The Law Offices of Richard D. Seward, P.C. to discuss your options.
Too many traffic tickets or one conviction of DUI can result in a loss of your driving privileges. That’s why it’s important to have an attorney from The Law Offices of Richard D. Seward, P.C. on your side who is familiar with the laws and understands how best to defend your rights.
Remember, asset protection comes in many forms. Drive safe!
Joe Schodowski is a contributing author to this blog and has been admitted to practice law in the state of Washington. He limits his practice to the areas of family law and criminal and civil traffic matters. The Law Offices of Joseph Schodowski, PLLC works in association with the Law Offices of Richard D. Seward, PC.