Contact The Law Offices of Michelle Bell Today to Discuss Your Case
Most people assume a speeding ticket is something that can be settled by paying a fine or attending traffic safety school. While this is true in some cases, a criminal speeding charge is more serious and could lead to severe penalties such as increased fines and even jail time.
What’s the Difference Between Speeding and Criminal Speeding?
When a speeding ticket does not rise to the level of a criminal offense, it is classified as a civil violation. These cases can be settled by attending traffic school or paying a fine. Drivers also have the option to request a hearing to contest the violation.
The situation becomes a little more complicated if you are charged with criminal speeding. First, let’s take a look at how Arizona classifies criminal speeding.
- Driving in excess of 85 mph anywhere in the State of Arizona
- Driving in excess of 35 mph in a school zone
- Driving 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit in a residential or business area
- Driving in excess of 45 mph in a business or residential area where no speed limit is posted
How Will a Conviction Impact You?
A criminal speeding conviction will become part of your permanent criminal record, which can make it hard to obtain future employment or advance in your current career. The MVD will also put points on your license. Once you accumulate 12 points, your license will be suspended for three months. Your insurance rates will also rise dramatically as a result of a criminal speeding conviction.
Can Criminal Speeding Lead to Jail Time?
The short answer is yes. Under Arizona law, someone convicted of criminal speeding could be sentenced to up to 30 days in jail or one year of probation. A skilled defense attorney can help you avoid jail time. Contact The Law Offices of Michelle Bell today to discuss the details of your case.
You may be able to avoid jail time by attending Defensive Driving School. This decision however, is at the discretion of the judge hearing your case. Michelle Bell has helped drivers just like you avoid a criminal speeding conviction by arguing in favor of Defensive Driving School before a judge.
