Got a Traffic Ticket? We Are Here To Help With Your Appeal Process

Getting a traffic ticket in Georgia can be frustrating and costly, but you don’t have to accept it without question. Whether you believe the citation was issued in error or you want to avoid points on your license and increased insurance premiums, appealing the ticket may be your best option. At The Spizman Firm, we help clients throughout Georgia fight traffic tickets and understand their rights in court.

Step 1: Review the Ticket Carefully

When you receive a ticket, read it thoroughly. Make note of the alleged violation, the date and time, and the officer’s comments. Also check the instructions for contesting the ticket—most citations include a court date or information on how to request a hearing. Be sure to act before any listed deadlines.

Step 2: Decide Whether to Pay or Contest

If you pay the ticket, you’re admitting guilt. Points may be added to your driving record, and your insurance premiums may go up. If you believe you were wrongly ticketed or want to minimize penalties, you can contest the ticket. In some cases—especially if you have a clean record or the violation is minor—the judge may offer options like defensive driving courses to reduce points or fines.

Step 3: Request a Court Hearing

To appeal a traffic ticket in Georgia, you must plead “not guilty” and request a court hearing. This can usually be done in person or by mail. Once your hearing is scheduled, you’ll have an opportunity to argue your case before a judge or magistrate. The citation should include instructions on where and how to do this.

Step 4: Gather Evidence and Prepare Your Defense

Before your court date, collect any evidence that supports your case. This could include photographs, GPS data, witness statements, or dashcam footage. For example, if you’re disputing a stop sign violation, a photo showing an obscured sign might be helpful. If the officer made a mistake in how the citation was written, such as noting the wrong location or vehicle type, that may also support your argument.

Step 5: Appear in Court

On the scheduled date, arrive at the courthouse early, dress appropriately, and be prepared to present your case clearly and respectfully. The officer who issued the ticket will likely be present and give their account. You can question the officer and present your evidence. After hearing both sides, the judge will decide whether to dismiss the ticket or uphold it.

Step 6: Consider Legal Help

Although you can represent yourself, having an experienced attorney can increase your chances of success—especially for more serious traffic offenses. An attorney may be able to negotiate reduced penalties or identify legal defenses you might not know about.

If you’re considering appealing a traffic ticket in Georgia, The Spizman Firm is here to guide you through every step of the process. Our experienced Atlanta criminal defense attorneys have a track record of helping clients minimize or avoid penalties from traffic violations. We serve clients across Georgia, including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs.

Source:

dds.georgia.gov/points-schedule