Criminal Defense Attorneys Providing A Diligent Defense Against Civil Infractions

When it comes to civil offenses, like traffic violations, they might seem minor when compared with criminal charges. However, their impact can be significant. A traffic ticket or other civil infractions can affect your driver’s license, increase your insurance premiums and even show up on background checks, especially if your job involves driving. It’s well worth consulting with a lawyer to discuss your options for a strategic defense.

You can turn to us at The Boss Attorney in Oakland County. As criminal defense attorneys, we provide diligent defenses against civil infractions. We are award-winning Michigan lawyers Carly and Randy Babi, and we offer skilled representation backed by nearly 20 combined years of experience. Our stellar reviews reflect the determined yet friendly and compassionate approach we bring to every case. We truly care about our clients and are committed to doing right by them. We will do the same for you.

Breaking Down Civil Infractions

Civil infractions are legal violations that don’t amount to criminal charges, which means that they can’t result in jail time. However, they can still result in consequences, such as fines, driver’s license suspensions, increased insurance premiums and other headaches.

We are well-equipped to defend you against a wide range of civil infractions, including:

Speeding tickets
Careless driving
Improper turns
Failure to yield
Noise violations
Moving violations
Parking violations
Zoning violations
Local ordinance violations

Every case is different, and we are prepared to assist you with personalized strategies tailored to your specific situation.

Understanding The Civil Infraction Process

The process for handling civil infractions is different from criminal cases. It typically involves a series of steps, from receiving a civil infraction notice to attending hearings. The civil infraction notice will lay out the details of the alleged violation and your options for contesting it. Think twice before simply paying the fine, as doing so is an admission of guilt. Once you pay the fine, you will lose your ability to assert your rights to challenge the alleged infraction.

We can help you understand the court procedures for civil infractions. We can go over potential penalties, such as points on your driving record, license suspension, insurance premium increases and court costs. We will work to avoid or minimize driver responsibility fees.

Burden Of Proof In Civil Vs. Criminal Cases

The burden of proof – that is, what the prosecutor has to prove – is an easier standard in civil infractions than in criminal cases. In civil cases, the prosecution only has to prove the violation by a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it’s more likely than not that the infraction occurred. In criminal cases, by contrast, they must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. This is an important difference, as it means you must work harder to undermine the prosecution’s case.

Civil Infraction FAQ

Below are answers to common questions about civil infractions in Michigan:

What is the difference between a civil infraction and a misdemeanor in Michigan?

In Michigan, a civil infraction is a noncriminal violation of the law. Many are traffic offenses such as speeding or running a red light. These infractions do not carry jail time but may result in fines, points on your driving record and increased insurance rates. On the other hand, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense that can result in more serious consequences, including jail time, larger fines and a permanent criminal record.

Can I contest a civil infraction ticket without hiring an attorney?

Yes, you can contest a civil infraction ticket without hiring an attorney. You have the right to represent yourself in court and present your case before a judge. However, hiring an attorney can make it much easier to contest your case and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

How long do civil infractions stay on my driving record in Michigan?

Civil infractions typically remain on your driving record for two years in Michigan. However, the impact on your insurance rates and driving privileges may vary depending on the severity of the infraction and your overall driving history. It’s important to maintain a clean driving record to avoid long-term consequences such as increased insurance premiums.

Fight Your Civil Infraction With The Help Of Experienced Lawyers

If you’re dealing with civil infractions in Oakland County, Macomb County or Wayne County, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at The Boss Attorney. We are criminal defense attorneys who are here to help you through this process. We offer free consultations and are ready to assist Spanish-speaking clients in their own language. Contact us today at 888-778-2224 to discuss your case and how we can shape a robust defense in your favor.