Speeding Ticket

Speeding Tickets in Illinois: What You Need to Know

If you’ve received a speeding ticket in Illinois, you’re likely wondering what to do next. As a criminal defense attorney with over 32 years of experience handling traffic violations and speeding tickets throughout Illinois, I can tell you one thing: you should not take a speeding ticket lightly. Many people assume it’s just a minor infraction with no long-term consequences, but the truth is, a speeding ticket can have serious implications for your driving record, insurance rates, and even your criminal history. If you’re a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holder, the consequences can be even more severe.

In this article, I will break down everything you need to know about speeding tickets in Illinois: the potential penalties, whether or not you have to go to court, what happens if you do, and how hiring a skilled attorney can protect your record and your future.

The Consequences of a Speeding Ticket in Illinois

Speeding tickets in Illinois can result in more than just a fine. The penalties vary depending on how fast you were going over the speed limit, whether this is your first offense, and other factors.

Basic Penalties Include:

• Fines: Depending on the speed, you could face fines ranging from $120 to over $1,500.
• Court Costs: If your ticket requires a court appearance, you may also be responsible for court costs.
• Driver’s License Points: Illinois operates on a points system. A speeding ticket can add anywhere from 5 to 50 points to your driving record, depending on the speed.
• Driver’s License Suspension: Accumulating too many points can lead to a license suspension. Three convictions for moving violations within 12 months can trigger a suspension.
• Increased Insurance Rates: Even a single speeding ticket can cause your insurance premiums to increase.

For more serious violations, such as speeding in a construction zone or school zone, or driving more than 26 mph over the limit, the consequences are even more severe.

Is a Speeding Ticket a Criminal Offense in Illinois?

Yes, in some cases, a speeding ticket can rise to the level of a misdemeanor offense.

• Speeding 26 to 34 mph over the limit: This is a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,500.
• Speeding 35+ mph over the limit: This is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

These are criminal offenses that can go on your permanent record if not handled properly. As a defense attorney with decades of courtroom experience, I’ve helped hundreds of clients avoid jail time and keep their records clean.

Do You Have to Appear in Court for a Speeding Ticket?

It depends on the nature of the violation.

• Minor speeding tickets (1-25 mph over the limit) typically do not require a court appearance. You may have the option to pay the fine or attend traffic school to keep the violation off your record.
• Serious speeding violations (26+ mph over the limit) do require a mandatory court appearance because they are considered misdemeanor offenses.

Even if you are not required to appear in court, it may still be in your best interest to hire an attorney who can appear on your behalf and fight the ticket.

What Happens When You Go to Court for a Speeding Ticket?

When you appear in court for a speeding ticket, the process typically goes as follows:

1. Initial Appearance: You or your attorney will appear before a judge. You will be informed of the charges against you.
2. Plea Entry: You may plead guilty, not guilty, or request a continuance to consult with legal counsel.
3. Pre-Trial Negotiation: If you plead not guilty, your attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge or secure court supervision instead of a conviction.
4. Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case may proceed to trial. The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
5. Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will impose penalties, which may include fines, traffic school, community service, probation, or even jail time.

A seasoned traffic attorney can often negotiate reduced charges or court supervision, helping you avoid a conviction and protect your driving record.

How a Speeding Ticket Affects CDL Holders

If you have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a speeding ticket can be catastrophic to your career. CDL holders are held to a higher standard, and traffic violations can result in disqualification, even for offenses committed in a personal vehicle.

Consequences for CDL holders may include:

• Loss of Employment: Many employers have zero-tolerance policies for moving violations.
• Disqualification: Two serious traffic violations within a 3-year period can result in a 60-day disqualification of your CDL.
• Higher Insurance Premiums: CDL insurance is already expensive; a violation can make it worse.

Serious violations for CDL drivers include:

• Speeding 15 mph or more over the limit
• Reckless driving
• Erratic lane changes
• Following too closely

If you’re a CDL holder, you should never simply pay a speeding ticket without consulting a qualified attorney. I’ve successfully defended numerous CDL drivers and helped them keep their records clean and their jobs secure.

Why You Need an Experienced Speeding Ticket Lawyer

Hiring an experienced speeding ticket attorney can make all the difference. With over three decades of experience, I know the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. I understand how to navigate the legal system to minimize or eliminate the consequences of a speeding ticket.

Benefits of hiring a speeding ticket lawyer:

• Protect Your Record: Avoid convictions that could impact your insurance or license.
• Save Time: I can often appear in court on your behalf, saving you time and stress.
• Negotiate Better Outcomes: I work to reduce charges, secure supervision, or get the ticket dismissed entirely.
• Avoid Jail Time: For misdemeanor speeding tickets, an attorney can help you avoid harsh penalties.

Contact a Skilled Illinois Speeding Ticket Lawyer Today

If you’re facing a speeding ticket in Illinois, don’t go it alone. Whether it’s a minor infraction or a serious misdemeanor, the consequences can be far-reaching. Your driving record, your insurance rates, and your livelihood may all be at stake.

With over 32 years of experience defending clients in Illinois traffic courts, I know how to build a strong defense, challenge the evidence, and protect your rights. I offer personalized attention to every case and fight aggressively to achieve the best possible outcome.

Call 847-807-7405 or fill out the online form on my website for a free consultation and let’s discuss how I can help you fight your speeding ticket and protect your future. Don’t wait—time is critical in defending your rights!