Traffic Ticket Attorney in Walton County

Although it is along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Walton County primarily consists of rural area. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of this county was around 15,800 residents in 2011. That amounts to a population density of around 28 people per square mile of land area.

Several miles of beaches are found here in Walton County. Along with these beaches, the Choctawhatchee National Forest also lies in part here. The county is largely made up of hilly terrain, and the highest point in Florida is also found here.

Courts and Law Enforcement

Defunkiak Springs is the county seat and is also home to a city police department. The cities of Freeport, Paxton, Grayton Beach and Mossy Head are all serviced by the Walton County Sheriff’s Department. As a part of the 1st Judicial Circuit of Florida, the courthouse is located in Defunkiak Springs and is also where traffic court is commenced. Drivers who receive citations may elect to pay their fines, complete a driver improvement course or request a court hearing by visiting the clerk of court or filling out information on the county’s official website.

Common Traffic Offenses

Speeding and reckless driving are two common traffic offenses in Walton County. Those who are charged with speeding can be penalized three points against their driver’s license if they are driving 15 mph or less over the speed limit. When driving 16 mph or above, the point penalty increases to four, as is the case with those fined for reckless driving.

Points System

After obtaining 12 penalty points within 12 months, motorists will have their driver’s license suspended for a period of 30 days. Those who accrue 18 points within 18 months will lose driving privileges for three months. When 24 points are accumulated within 36 months, the period of suspension will be for one year.

Multiple Suspensions Possible

It’s important to remember that points do not fall off whenever a driver’s license is suspended. Those who have their license suspended after reaching the 12-point limit could be penalized again if they reach the 18- or 24-point limits. Under Florida law, the only thing that is considered is the number of points in a given time frame.

Driver Improvement Training

Many people elect to take driver improvement training after receiving a citation, as there are no points assessed against one’s license after doing so. This course can be taken once per year or a maximum of five times per driver. After that, it may be necessary to consult with a Walton County traffic attorney in order to fight the citation in a court of law.

CDL Drivers

Operators who hold a commercial driver’s license may also want to speak with a traffic attorney after being issued a ticket, since their livelihood could be at stake if they are found guilty. CDL drivers are not afforded the opportunity to attend driver improvement training, making it even more imperative that they act quickly to protect their rights.

Individuals can sometimes benefit from going to court even if their license is not in jeopardy of suspension. Many times, cases are dismissed when taken before a judge. For more information, those in Walton County, Florida are encouraged to call an experienced traffic ticket attorney.