Expired Vehicle Registration Atlanta GA
I got a ticket in the City of Atlanta for an expired tag. I got it rectified the day of the citation (it was 2 days expired). Is there any chance I could contact the DA before the summons date and see if he/she is willing to dismiss, or is this possible the day of the summons? I have read that in some instances they will do this and you don't have to go before the judge. I have no past violations
Solicitors, (the individuals that prosecute misdemeanors) are incredibly busy and they are unlikely to return you call.
However, If you show up in court with proof that you renewed your tag, they will LIKELY do one of the following: (i) dismiss the case or (ii) reduce the fine. There is not an absolute guarantee that either of these will occur because you are in essence, showing up to court with proof that you are guilty of the offense and asking for mercy. Yet, normally solicitors are reasonable on these offenses. If you were to hire a lawyer to represent you, the likelihood of a favorable result would be even greater.
I used to be a prosecutor in that court, and you won't be able to contact them before court. Go on your court date, and show them proof you renewed your tag. They may dismiss, but will probably reduce the fine. This charge does not go on your driving history, or effect your insurance rates.
James L. Yeargan, Jr. is licensed to practice law in the State of Georgia. All information given is based only on Georgia law, and is not directly applicable to any other jurisdictions, states, or districts. Any answer given assumes the person who asked the question holds a Georgia Drivers License, and this license is not a commercial drivers license (CDL). This response, or any response, is not legal advice. This response, or any response, does not create an attorney/client relationship. The response is in the form of legal education and is intended to provide general information. Any state specific concerns should be directed to an attorney who is licensed to practice law in that respective state.
Get yourself a lawyer and let him or her present this information to the prosecutor and seek a dismissal. It is often possible to get such dismissals when the issue is minor and has been addressed, but talking to the prosecutor yourself is generally a bad idea.
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Having proof of valid registration is great, but be careful about making statements to the prosecutor because the statement may be used against you. If you can show proof, the best way to handle it would be to show up in court and present your proof in a conference with the solicitor. Having an attorney represent you always puts you in a better position though.
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