Chicago, IL Aggravated Speeding Attorney

Experienced Lawyer Defending Against Misdemeanor Speeding Charges in Chicago, Illinois

In Illinois, most speeding tickets and traffic charges are treated as civil violations, but driving at extremely high speeds can result in criminal prosecution. This offense, known as aggravated speeding, is taken seriously by prosecutors and judges, and a conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, jail time, and other penalties that may affect your employment, insurance rates, and driving privileges.

If you have been charged with aggravated speeding in Chicago, you should not treat it like a routine traffic ticket. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Miranda Law Office, LTD provides skilled legal representation for clients facing aggravated speeding charges and other criminal traffic offenses throughout Cook County.

What Is Aggravated Speeding?

Drivers may be issued speeding tickets if they exceed the posted speed limit on a road or highway. In cases involving speeds of up to 25 miles per hour over the speed limit, a violation will be a civil infraction. However, going more than 25 miles per hour over the speed limit is a misdemeanor offense.

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-601.5, a driver may be charged with a Class B misdemeanor if they exceed speed limits by between 26 and 34 miles per hour. A Class B misdemeanor conviction carries a potential jail sentence of six months or less, as well as a maximum fine of $1,500. Drivers who speed by 35 miles per hour or more may face Class A misdemeanor charges of aggravated speeding. In these cases, the maximum jail sentence increases to one year, and the maximum fine increases to $2,500.

A conviction will also result in a permanent criminal record that cannot be expunged or sealed. A person's auto insurance rates are likely to increase significantly, or an insurance company may cancel coverage. Some people may face professional consequences, including commercial drivers who could face the loss of their CDL or others who work in jobs that require a clean driving record.

Fighting Against Aggravated Speeding Charges

Judges in Cook County often take aggravated speeding seriously, especially when violations allegedly take place in construction zones, school zones, or in combination with other offenses such as reckless driving. However, there are steps you can take to fight against an aggravated speeding charge and defend against a conviction. Our attorney will review your case and help you determine the best defense strategy that will help you minimize or eliminate the potential penalties.

We may:

• Challenge the Accuracy of Speed Detection Devices: Radar and laser equipment must be properly calibrated, and police officers must follow the right procedures and standards when using these devices. Our lawyer may look at whether the readings provided using this equipment were inaccurate.
• Negotiate With Prosecutors: Our attorney can help determine whether agreements may be made that will allow charges to be reduced and prevent long-term penalties. We may be able to reduce the charge to a civil speeding violation or another non-criminal infraction so that you can avoid having a misdemeanor conviction on your record.
• Request Supervision or Alternative Sentencing: In some cases, you may receive court supervision or probation rather than being convicted of a criminal offense. If you maintain a clean driving record during a period of supervision or probation, the charges against you will be dismissed. We will advocate for solutions that will help you protect your record and avoid serious penalties.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Many people are surprised to learn that aggravated speeding is a criminal offense. Some may attempt to handle these charges on their own, believing that if they explain themselves, they will be able to avoid serious consequences. However, criminal charges should not be taken lightly, and without legal representation, you will be more likely to be convicted.

Our experienced attorney will advise you of your options and make sure you understand the potential outcomes to your case. He will take steps to prevent a conviction and protect your record. With Miranda Law Office, LTD on your side, you can rest assured that you will have a dedicated legal advocate working to secure the best possible results for you.

Contact Our Chicago Aggravated Speeding Defense Lawyer

Do not risk your future by attempting to address charges of aggravated speeding on your own. Miranda Law Office, LTD can provide you with a strong defense and help you minimize the ways your life may be affected by these charges. Arrange a consultation by contacting our Chicago, IL aggravated speeding defense attorney at 773-588-3822. We provide legal services to people who speak English or Spanish.