Charged With a Motor Vehicle Offense in Portsmouth? Our Team Is Ready to Help
If you’ve been charged with a Motor Vehicle Offense in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, you may be facing more than just a fine or a simple ticket. Many of these charges carry real legal consequences, including license suspensions, increased insurance rates, court appearances, and in some cases, even jail time. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our motor vehicle defense attorney in Portsmouth understands how these charges can affect your life, and we’re here to help you navigate them.
Our legal team consists of aggressive criminal defense attorneys with experience on both sides of the courtroom. With a former prosecutor on our team, we have valuable insight into how cases are pursued and prosecuted. This allows us to build strong, informed defenses for our clients. If you’re dealing with a Motor Vehicle Offense in Portsmouth or nearby towns, you don’t have to face it alone.
Understanding Motor Vehicle Offenses in New Hampshire
Motor Vehicle Offenses in New Hampshire cover a wide range of infractions and violations. According to the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) Title LXII – Criminal Code, certain offenses go beyond civil penalties and can result in criminal charges. These charges may show up on your record, impact your driving privileges, and influence future employment opportunities, especially if driving is part of your job.
Here are three common categories of Motor Vehicle Offenses in New Hampshire:
Traffic Infractions
Traffic infractions may seem minor, but can quickly become serious if left unresolved or if you have multiple violations. These include:
- Speeding (RSA 265:60)
- Failure to obey traffic signals (RSA 265:9)
- Following too closely (RSA 265:8)
A conviction for repeated traffic infractions can lead to points on your license, license suspension, and increased auto insurance premiums. Our firm works to reduce or eliminate these penalties whenever possible.
License and Registration Offenses
Operating a vehicle without proper documentation can result in more than just a fine. Common charges include:
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license (RSA 263:64)
- Operating an unregistered vehicle (RSA 261:40)
- Allowing improper use of a license (RSA 263:12)
If you’ve been accused of driving without a valid license or registration, we can help determine whether your rights were violated and whether your case can be resolved through alternative legal strategies.
Criminal Misdemeanors Involving Motor Vehicles
Some motor vehicle offenses go beyond civil penalties and carry criminal consequences. These include:
- Reckless operation (RSA 265:79)
- Conduct after an accident or hit-and-run (RSA 264:25)
- Driving under the influence (DUI/OUI under RSA 265-A:2)
- Disobeying a police officer (RSA 265:4)
Criminal misdemeanors can result in a permanent criminal record, jail time, and license revocation. We work to minimize or eliminate these risks through strategic defense.
Equipment and Safety Violations
While these offenses may seem purely technical, they can become costly and even lead to further criminal charges:
- Failure to maintain inspection standards (RSA 266:1)
- Defective safety equipment, such as lights or brakes (RSA 266:43)
- Failure to display proper plates (RSA 261:75)
We aim to resolve these charges quickly and efficiently to avoid further legal complications.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
Our team is known for its thorough case preparation and knowledge of New Hampshire traffic laws. We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we evaluate the details of your specific situation, identify any procedural mistakes by law enforcement, and work to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that means reduced charges, dismissal, or a negotiated resolution.
What sets us apart:
- Insight from a former prosecutor
- A reputation for aggressive criminal defense
- Deep familiarity with Portsmouth criminal defense procedures
- Personalized strategy sessions, not cookie-cutter solutions
When you choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, you’re working with professionals who are committed to protecting your record, your license, and your future.
What To Expect in a Motor Vehicle Offense Case
Each Motor Vehicle Offense case begins with an arraignment, followed by pre-trial hearings and, in some cases, a trial. We guide clients through every step, ensuring you understand your options and rights.
We often start by investigating whether there was a valid reason for the stop or citation.
- Was the stop lawful?
- Were your rights violated during the process?
We evaluate evidence such as police reports, dashcam footage, and witness statements. Our goal is to protect your rights while helping you avoid unnecessary penalties.
If you’re eligible for diversion programs or administrative license reinstatement, we’ll discuss those options too.
Serving Portsmouth and Surrounding Communities
Whether you’re a Portsmouth resident or were just passing through Rockingham County, our firm is prepared to step in quickly. We work with clients from nearby towns like Rye, Greenland, and New Castle—helping them handle charges in the Portsmouth District Court and beyond.
Contact Us Now to Set Up a Strategy Session
If you’ve been charged with a Motor Vehicle Offense in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, time matters. Don’t wait to address the issue or try to handle it on your own. Instead, let the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson provide the defense strategy you need.
Contact us now to set up a strategy session. We’ll take the time to understand your case and guide you toward the right path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after getting a traffic ticket in Portsmouth, New Hampshire?
It’s best to avoid automatically paying the fine without first understanding the consequences. You may have legal options that can reduce or eliminate the charge.
Can I lose my license for a traffic violation in New Hampshire?
Yes. Accumulating enough points from violations or being convicted of certain offenses can result in the suspension or revocation of your license.
Are all motor vehicle offenses considered criminal in New Hampshire?
No. Some are civil infractions, but many—including driving with a suspended license or repeated violations—can be charged as misdemeanors.
What are common defenses for motor vehicle charges?
Defenses may include a lack of probable cause for a stop, errors in how evidence was collected, or procedural mistakes made by law enforcement.
How can the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson help with my case?
We offer a thorough case review, explore all available defenses, and aim to dismiss the charges against you wherever possible.