Charged With a Motor Vehicle Offense in Candia? Start Building Your Defense Today
If you’ve been charged with a motor vehicle offense in Candia, New Hampshire, you may be facing more than just a fine. Some charges carry the risk of license suspension, a permanent criminal record, or even jail time. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our motor vehicle defense attorney in Candia understands the impact a traffic-related offense can have on your life. Whether it’s a simple traffic infraction or a more serious charge involving a suspended license or unsafe vehicle, we’re ready to fight for your rights.
Our firm includes trial-tested criminal defense attorneys and a former prosecutor, giving us a comprehensive understanding of how these cases are handled from both sides of the courtroom. If you live in Candia or a surrounding town and you’ve been accused of a motor vehicle offense, reach out to us today to set up a strategy session. We’ll walk you through your options, challenge the evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.
Types of Motor Vehicle Offenses We Defend in Candia, NH
Motor vehicle offenses in New Hampshire are governed under Title LXII of the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA), which includes a wide range of potential violations. Some offenses are minor infractions, while others may be charged as misdemeanors or even felonies depending on the circumstances.
Traffic Infractions
Traffic infractions are non-criminal violations that typically result in fines and demerit points on your driving record. However, repeated violations can lead to harsher penalties. Common traffic infractions include:
- Speeding (RSA 265:60): Excessive speed can trigger increased fines or license suspension, especially in construction zones or school zones.
- Failure to Obey Traffic Control Devices (RSA 265:9): This includes running red lights or ignoring road signs.
- Following Too Closely (RSA 265:8): Tailgating is more than a bad habit—it’s a citable offense in New Hampshire.
License and Registration Offenses
Driving without valid credentials or with suspended privileges is taken seriously in New Hampshire. We defend clients accused of:
- Driving After Suspension or Revocation (RSA 263:64): Operating a vehicle while your license is suspended can result in jail time and additional suspension periods.
- Unregistered Vehicle (RSA 261:40): Failing to register a vehicle or knowingly driving an unregistered one is a misdemeanor in many cases.
- Operating Without a Valid License (RSA 263:1): This includes never having been licensed or driving after a license has expired.
Equipment and Safety Violations
Your vehicle must meet state safety requirements to be legally operated. Law enforcement officers often pull drivers over for mechanical issues that may seem minor but are enforceable under New Hampshire law:
- Defective Equipment (RSA 266:59): Broken headlights, worn tires, and malfunctioning brakes are common examples.
- Inspection Requirements (RSA 266:1): Vehicles in New Hampshire must undergo annual safety inspections. Driving a vehicle with an expired inspection sticker is a violation.
- Failure to Use Required Safety Devices (RSA 265:107-a): This includes seatbelt violations and child safety seat requirements.
Criminal Misdemeanors
Some driving-related offenses are classified as criminal misdemeanors, which means they can lead to jail time, probation, and a permanent criminal record.
Common misdemeanor charges:
- Reckless driving (RSA 265:79)
- Conduct after an accident (RSA 264:25)
- Driving under suspension when the original offense was DUI (RSA 263:64)
How We Help You Fight Motor Vehicle Charges
When you work with the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, you gain access to a skilled legal team that doesn’t take shortcuts. We take the time to understand your case and look at every detail—from the traffic stop to the ticket, arrest, or court summons.
Here’s how we can help:
- Challenge the Stop: We evaluate whether the officer had legal grounds to pull you over. If the stop was unlawful, the evidence may be suppressed.
- Review the Evidence: We scrutinize the ticket, arrest reports, and any dashcam or bodycam footage for inconsistencies or procedural errors.
- Negotiate When Appropriate: In some cases, we can negotiate to have the charges reduced or dismissed entirely, particularly when it comes to non-criminal violations.
- Prepare for Trial: If your case requires a trial, we build a strong defense strategy and represent you aggressively in court.
We represent drivers in Candia and surrounding towns across Rockingham County and southern New Hampshire. Don’t wait for the problem to go away on its own—motor vehicle offenses can have long-term effects if not handled properly.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson for Your Candia Motor Vehicle Case
Facing a motor vehicle offense in Candia can be overwhelming, especially when the outcome may affect your license, insurance rates, or even your criminal record. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we approach every case with careful attention and a strong understanding of how the New Hampshire legal system works.
Having represented clients across Candia and surrounding towns, we know the local courts, the typical procedures, and how to build an effective defense tailored to your specific situation.
We believe that every client deserves straightforward legal guidance and a strategy built on facts, not assumptions. From the moment you contact us, we take time to listen to your concerns, explain your legal options, and develop a clear plan of action. If you’ve been accused of a motor vehicle offense in Candia, New Hampshire, contact us today to set up a strategy session and take the first step toward resolving your case.
Take the First Step Toward Resolving Your Motor Vehicle Charges
Motor vehicle offenses may seem minor, but their consequences can add up quickly, especially if they lead to license suspension or a criminal record. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson offers focused and experienced defense for drivers in Candia, New Hampshire, and throughout the region.
If you’ve been charged with a traffic infraction, license violation, criminal misdemeanor, or equipment-related offense, don’t try to handle it alone. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and let us help you take control of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I’m caught driving with a suspended license in Candia, NH?
Driving with a suspended license under RSA 263:64 is a misdemeanor offense and can result in fines, jail time, and an extension of the suspension. A strong legal defense can potentially reduce or dismiss the charges.
Are traffic tickets considered criminal offenses in New Hampshire?
Most traffic tickets are civil violations, but some, such as reckless driving or driving with a suspended license, are classified as misdemeanors or felonies.
Can I fight a speeding ticket in Candia?
Yes. You have the right to contest a speeding ticket in court. We can review radar calibration, officer observations, and other evidence to determine your best defense.
What are the penalties for failing to inspect my vehicle?
Under RSA 266:5, driving a vehicle without a valid inspection sticker can result in fines, and in some cases, vehicle impoundment until it passes inspection.
How many points will I get on my license for a traffic infraction?
New Hampshire’s Demerit Point System assigns points to traffic violations. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension. We can help you contest infractions to avoid or reduce points.