Union County, NC Speeding Ticket

If you have been charged with a traffic offense in Union County, North Carolina you need to know the local rules for obtaining a speed reduction. Generally speaking the best reduction option is an improper equipment, which is a non-moving violation and carries no insurance or DMV points under NC law.

Improper Equipment in Union County requirements

1) Not be charged with speeding more than 25 mph over the limit.

2) Usually must have a decent driving record.

Should I hire an attorney for traffic court?

If you meet the above the requirements you may qualify to obtain a reduction to Improper Equipment. Having a good driving record also helps. If you have been charged with another offense such as a running a stop sign, red light violation, left of center, following too closely, or another minor violation and your case has been set for Administrative Court in Monroe (Friday Court) you may also qualify for a reduction to improper equipment. The fine and court costs for Improper Equipment in Union County varies from $266 (standard fee) to $341 depending on the charge and the ADA in Court the day of your ticket. Our fee is typically $200. The usual total of $441 includes us paying for a hard copy of your DMV record to show the Assistant District Attorney and attending Court on your behalf. This saves you the inconvenience of paying for a DMV record, taking time off work, and waiting in Court.

Can I represent myself in traffic court?

If you decide to represent yourself it is important to recognize whether your case is scheduled for administrative or district court. Most minor traffic offenses in Union County are initially scheduled for administrative court in Courtroom #1 of the Union Count Judicial Center. If your case is set for a non-Friday in District Courtroom #3 this is usually not a good sign. Administrative Court is usually every Friday from 9:30 am - 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm -4:00 pm. No Judge or police officers are present in administrative court- just assistant district attorneys. This means if you want a trial or to ask for a prayer for judgment continued or "PJC" your case has to be continued to another date in district court in front of a Judge.

Can I pay my NC ticket online?

Depending on the charge you may be eligible to simply "payoff"your ticket online. Paying a ticket online in NC is the same as pleading guilty as charged, unless you also receive a reduction from the district attorney. Be aware pleading guilty to any moving violation may have serious consequences on your license and insurance. If you want a reduction you have to work out a reduction with the DA or hire an attorney to attend court on your behalf. Before you simply pay your ticket online it certainly advisable to at least email an attorney to learn all your options.

What if my charge involves a car accident?

If you were charged with unsafe movement or another violation as a result of an accident you may be eligible to have your case dismissed if your insurance company reimburses the damages incurred by the other driver. You generally need a court letter from your insurance company stating all outstanding issues have been resolved. If you were involved in a single car accident such as running off the road, then obtaining an insurance letter may not be an option and you or your attorney would need to negotiate with the ADA.

Is driving school an option to get a reduction in Union County?

Whether driving school would help earn a reduction is totally in the discretion of the ADA. Some counties like Mecklenburg County have their own driving school programs and therefore endorse this option. Other smaller counties like Union County do not have county specific programs and do not openly encourage this option.

What are the fees for traffic court in Union County?

Court fees have increased dramatically in North Carolina over the last decade. The minimum court fees start at $191 and that does not even include the fine which can range from $25-$100 additional. There is even an additional surcharge for improper equipment of an extra $50 that goes directly to the county. If you pay via credit or debit card (instead of cash) at the Courthouse you will be charged a convenience fee of $4-$7 more depending on the charge amount. Keep in mind the courthouse does not accept personal checks.

Although Improper Equipment is usually the best outcome short of a dismissal other possible options include a prayer for judgment continued (PJC) or a reduction in speed. If you would like to discuss your options with a Union County, NC Traffic Attorney, please email or give us a call at (704) 493-6851.

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