Buffalo Grove Aggravated Speeding Defense Attorney

Traffic Ticket Defense in Lake County, Illinois

For most speeding tickets, the worst outcomes are fines, traffic school, and possibly court supervision. If you are stopped while going 26 or more miles per hour over the speed limit, however, you can be charged with the criminal offense of aggravated speeding. At The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C., we are experienced in representing clients facing traffic crimes. Our Buffalo Grove aggravated speeding lawyer helps clients avoid the harsh consequences of these charges and get back on the road.

Aggravated Speeding Charges in Illinois

Aggravated speeding is not taken lightly in the state of Illinois. In Illinois, speeding 26 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit is classified as a Class B misdemeanor criminal offense. It is considered a crime punishable by up to six months in jail and up to a $1,500 fine.

An aggravated speeding charge of speeding 35 mph or more over the posted speed limit is a Class A misdemeanor that is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. As of January 1, 2011, however, penalties for aggravated speeding became even more severe. Judges are now prohibited from ordering court supervision for speeding if it occurred in an urban district, school zone, or construction zone. Consequently, if you plead guilty to or are found guilty of this charge, you will have a conviction entered into your criminal record, and it will not be eligible for expungement.

It is even more important to hire an experienced attorney to represent you if you are charged with aggravated speeding. Attorney Matthew R. Gebhardt brings a former criminal prosecutor's insight to every case he handles, giving him a strong command of both negotiation and courtroom strategy. That background allows him to advocate effectively on behalf of his clients, and he works toward getting charges dismissed or reduced whenever the circumstances allow. Many people make the mistake of pleading guilty without first speaking to an attorney, only to face consequences that follow them for years.

How Will a Speeding Conviction Affect Your Driving Privileges?

A speeding conviction can add points to a driver's record, and enough points within a short period can lead to a license suspension. The number of points assigned varies based on how fast the driver was traveling, with higher speeds carrying greater penalties.

Beyond points, a speeding ticket can raise insurance premiums for years after the conviction. Multiple speeding convictions within a short time frame can also lead to closer scrutiny from the Secretary of State's office, which may request a hearing before a license is renewed or reinstated.

Younger drivers can face additional consequences, since Illinois places stricter limits on new drivers through a graduated licensing system. A speeding conviction during this period can delay the move to full driving privileges.

How Can You Defend Against Aggravated Speeding Charges in Buffalo Grove?

Several defense strategies may apply depending on the facts of the case. Our attorney can look into whether the radar or laser device used to measure speed was properly calibrated and whether the officer was trained to operate it. Weather conditions, road markings, and visibility of posted speed limit signs can also play a role in building a defense. In some cases, a driver may argue that speeding was necessary to avoid an immediate hazard, though this defense depends heavily on the specific facts involved.

Contact a Buffalo Grove Aggravated Speeding Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been charged with aggravated speeding, get in touch with The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C. From our Buffalo Grove office, we serve clients throughout Lake County. Call us at 847-239-4703 or contact our Buffalo Grove aggravated speeding defense attorney to schedule a free consultation to discuss your situation.