Traffic Violation Defense: Appealing Fines and Point System Management
Georgia operates a strict system for responding to traffic violations, which includes both monetary fines and a 100-point system. With numerous video cameras and active police patrols, drivers frequently receive fines for safety violations (e.g., seatbelts, phone use), speeding, or ignoring traffic signs. However, technical errors are common: cameras might misidentify a license plate, fines may be delivered to the wrong address, or patrol crews might incorrectly assess a situation. Accumulating administrative fines or losing all points leads to the suspension of driving rights, which is a major problem for drivers.
A lawyer''s help is particularly important when the fine amount is high or when the violation causes a critical reduction in points. Timely appeal (within 10 days of receipt) is the only way to avoid accruing penalties and license restrictions. A lawyer will help obtain evidence (video recordings) and formulate legal arguments.
What Does Traffic Fine Appeal Service Cover?
Specialists on Legal.ge offer assistance in appealing fines issued under the Administrative Offences Code:
- Video Fine Analysis: Checking the legality of fines issued by so-called "smart cameras" (identification of plates, fact of violation).
- Appealing Patrol Protocols: Challenging fines issued on the spot by patrols in a superior body or court.
- Point System Management: Consulting on remaining points and developing a strategy to maintain driving rights.
- Drunk Driving (Administrative) Cases: Appealing violations under Article 116 (intoxication), which involves long-term license suspension.
Common Situations and Real-World Scenarios
Drivers often face the following problems:
- Erroneous Video Fine: The camera captured someone else''s car, but you received the fine due to license plate similarity.
- Crossing the Center Line: The driver was forced to cross the line to avoid an accident, but the camera did not account for this context.
- Refusal of Sobriety Test: The driver refused testing, which was automatically counted as intoxication and led to license suspension.
- Non-delivery of Fine: You did not receive the fine notification, but penalties accrued, and enforcement began. A lawyer can restore the appeal deadline.
Georgian Legislation and Legal Framework
Traffic violations are regulated by the Administrative Offences Code of Georgia (Articles 118, 125, etc.). The system is based on a 100-point model: on January 1st of each year, a driver is assigned 100 points, which are deducted for violations. Depletion of points leads to a 1-year suspension of driving rights. For video fines, a special rule applies: the fine is considered delivered after SMS notification or receipt of the ticket. The appeal period is strictly defined—10 calendar days.
Process: What to Expect When Working with a Specialist
Working with a lawyer begins with studying the fine receipt and video material. The lawyer requests video footage from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. If it turns out that there is no violation or there was an extreme necessity (e.g., avoiding an accident), a complaint is prepared. During the court hearing, the lawyer presents evidence and petitions for the cancellation of the fine. This process is particularly effective for video fines, where technical errors are frequent.
Why Choose Legal.ge?
Seemingly small fines can lead to loss of driving rights and financial problems. Legal.ge offers lawyers who will help you protect your points and budget. Do not pay unfair fines—appeal them with professional help.
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