Getting a traffic ticket in Missouri is aggravating. You might end up paying huge fines, going to court, or even having points on your license. Having points on your record will make your insurance price higher. Accumulating too many points will even cause your license to be suspended.

If you have already got a ticket, it would probably be wise to have a traffic attorney. Do not retain any attorney. Get good questions so that you can get the correct advice.

Following are the five most important questions to ask prior to retaining a traffic ticket attorney in Missouri.

1. How Many Traffic Cases Have You Handled in Missouri?

Not all lawyers handle traffic cases all day. They may handle family law or personal injury. You want someone who handles traffic tickets daily.

Find out how many traffic cases they’ve handled in the past year. Also, ask if they’ve had experience handling your kind of ticket—such as speeding, reckless driving, or no-insurance driving.

Missouri traffic law is convoluted. Court process is different from county to county as well. A local attorney is familiar with the local judges and rules, which may work in your interest.

Why it matters:

A good attorney will know the best defenses. They also know if bargains like plea bargains are likely in your state.

Example:

Let’s say you get a speeding ticket in St. Louis County. A St. Louis court-practicing lawyer will have an idea whether the judge is hard or soft. That little inside information can be incredibly useful.

Red flag:

If the lawyer says traffic cases are not the typical kind of case they handle, or they sound hesitant, it’s time to look elsewhere. 

2. What Are the Possible Outcomes for My Case?

Every traffic ticket case is different. A good criminal defense lawyer in Kansas City will not give you any guarantees. But they should be able to give you some idea of what the possible outcome of your case will be.

  • Ask the following questions:
  • Will I get my ticket dismissed?
  • Can my fine be reduced?
  • Can my charge be reduced to a non-moving violation?
  • Will I have to show up in court?

This is what it says: The attorney has reviewed your case and understands what’s happening.

Why it’s important:

Having an idea of your chances enables you to make a smart decision. You will understand whether you have to contest the ticket or whether you have to plea out.

Be cautious:

No attorney should promise you that your ticket will vanish for sure. The law is always cynical. Trust an attorney who gives you straight, honest answers.

Example:

When your lawyer says, “There’s a pretty good chance we can cut the points down, but dismissal is not very likely,” that’s a realistic answer.

3. What Do You Charge, and Are There Any Extras?

Lawyers do not do anything for free, and you can pay in quite different ways. Some charge a flat fee for traffic tickets. Some charge an hourly fee. There is a court fee or some other fee if your case is complex.

Ask:

  • What is your total fee?
  • Are there any other fees I should know about?
  • Do I pay if you lose?

Why it matters:

Transparency costs you less surprise later on. And you can compare shops for attorneys and find one in your budget.

Tip:

Always ask for a written fee agreement. That way, everyone knows what they’re getting.

Example:

An attorney can tell you, “My fee is $250 to handle this ticket. Court fees are extra, usually $100.” Now you’re in the know.

Be careful:

If your attorney won’t give you bottom-line numbers, beware. You don’t want sticker shock later on.

4. Will You Work On My Case Yourself?

Sometimes the attorney you speak to initially isn’t going to be working on your case after all. Your case may be passed along to another attorney in the firm, or even to a paralegal.

Ask:

  • Will you work on my case yourself?
  • If not, who will?
  • What are their credentials?

Why it matters

You’re paying for experience by an attorney. You want to know who is going to be working on your case.

Rapid check:

You request the attorney if you have questions. A professional attorney will make sure that you’re able to talk with them.

Example:

A good response would be: “I’ll be handling your case personally. If you have questions, you can call my direct line or email me.”

Red flag:

If your lawyer is shady or in a rush to inform you about who will handle your case, reconsider.

5. How Will You Keep Me Informed?

Good communication is key. You want to hear everything that is happening.

Ask:

  • How often will you keep me informed?
  • Will you call, email, or text me?
  • Can I call you with questions?

Why it matters:

You don’t want to be kept in the dark. A good lawyer keeps you in the loop.

Select a lawyer who works in the same way as you. If you like email, but they don’t use email, that would be frustrating in a rush.

Example:

A good answer would be: “I’ll send you email reports after each court appearance and call you if something significant occurs.”

Be cautious:

If the attorney won’t take time to answer this question, then it may be a sign of poor service down the road.

Why These Questions Are Smart

Traffic tickets are not so terrible, but they can mar your record. Points accumulate quickly. Insurance skyrockets. Even in the worst-case scenarios, you’ll lose your license.

Having an attorney is nice. But selecting the right attorney is of paramount significance. The following five questions take you to an attorney who:

  • Is familiar with his law
  • Is a good communicator
  • Explains fees in clear terms
  • Is upfront with your chances

By asking these questions, you are assertive and stand the best chance of a positive outcome.

FAQs

Q1: Can an attorney actually do anything about a traffic ticket?

Yes. Attorneys often can reduce fines, keep points from being charged on your license, or even have the case dismissed.

Q2: How much is a court traffic attorney in Missouri?

Fees differ, but most charge between $150 and $500 for simple cases. Always request transparent pricing.

Q3: Does that mean I won’t have to appear in court if I get an attorney?

Yes, in the majority of cases. Your attorney can represent you, especially for minor traffic tickets.

Q4: What if I hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL)?

CDL drivers have stricter guidelines. An attorney can help defend your license and your job.

Q5: How long will it take to settle a traffic case?

These types of cases are usually wrapped up in one to three months. More involved cases take more time.

Final Thoughts

If you ask intelligent questions and have a good lawyer who is most appropriate for your case, you can handle your ticket with less trouble. Don’t rush. Take some time and hire an experienced Kansas City traffic ticket lawyer who uses plain, simple language.