The Legal Process for Contesting a Traffic Ticket in Victoria

Getting a traffic ticket can often be frustrating, especially if you believe that you did not commit any traffic offences that would warrant a ticket. Beyond just the associated fine, traffic tickets for certain offences can also potentially led to increased demerit points or even the suspension of your driving license. As such, there are legitimate reasons for why you might be interested in contesting your traffic ticket. In this post, we examine the legal process for contesting a traffic ticket in Victoria. 

Deciding Whether to Contest Your Ticket

When deciding whether or not it is worthwhile for you to contest your ticket, it can be helpful to first understand what you have been issued a ticket for. Some key details to check on your ticket include the time of the alleged offence, the location of the offence as well as the type of offence. You will then need to consider the grounds on which you would want to contest the ticket. Some common reasons why you may want to contest a traffic ticket include: 

• If you do not think that you broke the law. 
• If you believe that you were not driving the vehicle at the time of the offence and that it was someone else who broke the law. 
• If you believe that there wereextenuating circumstances at the time of the offence and that you should not need to pay the full amount. 

Contesting Your Traffic Ticket

If you do decide to contest your traffic ticket, you will then need to write to the agency that issued the ticket that you wish to contest it as soon as possible. If you decide to contest a ticket, your case will then be heard at the Magistrates’ Court. You can then plead your case in front of a magistrate or a judicial registrar who will make a decision on your case.

However, it is important to remember that while a magistrate can cancel any fines or reduce the amount you have to pay, they can also impose a larger fine or additional costs if they deem fit. Thus, the decision to contest a traffic ticket is one that could potentially backfire if you do not have a strong case to back up your claim. As such, you should carefully consider all the factors and the surrounding circumstances when deciding whether it is worthwhile for you to even contest the ticket.  

Still Unsure? Get Help from Experienced Criminal Barristers in Melbourne

If you’re still unsure or have doubts about the legal process involved in contesting a traffic ticket, or if you have been charged with any other offences, it might be helpful to consult an experienced lawyer. Leanne Warren & Associates is a leading firm of criminal lawyers based in Melbourne and our team of experts has decades of experience in the industry. For a free consultation to find out more about how we can help with your legal troubles, contact us today!