No one likes getting a traffic ticket in North Carolina. Beyond the initial stress and inconvenience, a ticket can lead to serious consequences—including fines, points on your license, higher insurance premiums, and even license suspension. At Hancock Law Firm, we help drivers in Carteret County and surrounding areas fight traffic violations effectively, often without the need for you to appear in court.
Why Traffic Tickets Are More Serious Than You Think
Many people treat traffic tickets like parking fines—annoying but harmless. Many moving violations are treated as infractions, however, they can be treated as criminal offenses in North Carolina and have lasting effects. Pleading guilty and paying the fine may seem like the easiest solution, but it’s the same as a conviction and can lead to:
- Points on your license that add up quickly
- License suspension if too many points accumulate
- Increased insurance premiums
- A criminal record for serious violations
- A negative impression on future law enforcement encounters
Ignoring a ticket is even worse. Failing to pay or appear in court (a Failure to Appear or FTA) can lead to license suspension and even a warrant for your arrest.
Can a North Carolina Traffic Ticket Be Dismissed?
Yes, some tickets can be dismissed—especially minor violations like expired tags—if corrected promptly. For more serious offenses, working with an experienced traffic ticket attorney can make a huge difference. Joel Hancock can review your case, challenge the evidence, and negotiate with the court to reduce or dismiss your charges.
Why Choose Hancock Law Firm?
When you call Hancock Law Firm, you get personalized service from a seasoned attorney who handles traffic court regularly in Carteret County. Joel Hancock knows the system, the judges, and the prosecutors—and that knowledge can work in your favor. Depending on your case, he may be able to:
- Appear in court on your behalf
- Get your charges reduced or dismissed
- Prevent or reduce points on your license
- Minimize insurance increases
- Reschedule court dates if you’ve missed one and avoid FTA penalties
Common North Carolina Traffic Violations We Handle
Joel Hancock routinely defends clients facing charges such as:
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Failure to reduce speed (e.g., in accidents or work zones)
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Seatbelt violations
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license
- Driving with expired registration or inspection
- Texting while driving
- Improper lane changes or passing violations
Note: While texting and driving is illegal in North Carolina, talking on a cellphone is legal for adults unless you’re a minor.
What Is a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC)?
A Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) is a legal option in North Carolina that allows the court to withhold a formal conviction—even if you plead guilty. You still pay court costs and fines, but you may avoid points on your license and a rise in insurance premiums.
Restrictions include:
- DMV allows up to two PJCs every five years
- Insurance companies typically allow one PJC every three years per policy
Joel Hancock can advise if using a PJC is right for your case and help ensure it benefits you as much as possible.
Defenses We May Use in Your Traffic Case
Attorney Joel Hancock has a successful track record of defending clients with strategic, fact-based arguments. Potential defenses may include:
- Obstructed or unclear view by the officer
- Malfunctioning radar or speed detection equipment
- Acting out of necessity (e.g., to avoid an accident)
- Animal or object suddenly appearing in the road
- Mechanical failure of your vehicle
- Medical emergency
- Unmarked or confusing speed limit signage
Don’t Face Traffic Court Alone — Contact Hancock Law Firm
Trying to handle a traffic ticket on your own can cost you far more than the fine. With an experienced attorney like Joel Hancock on your side, you can save time, protect your driving record, and possibly avoid court altogether.
Contact Hancock Law Firm today. We’ll fight for the best outcome—so you can move forward without unnecessary penalties or stress.