Understanding the Difference Between a No Contest Plea and a Waiver Hearing
Whether you are out for a peaceful drive or are headed to work, nothing can ruin that drive quite like seeing the flashing lights of a police car signaling that they are pulling you over. In Maryland, there are many different traffic rules and regulations that drivers must follow, making it easy to unintentionally violate one of these rules. If you have been pulled over for a traffic violation, you may be wondering if you should plead no contest to a traffic ticket or request a waiver hearing.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a Maryland traffic offense law firm dedicated to ensuring that drivers understand their options in regards to how they should plead for a traffic ticket. If you have committed a traffic offense, you have the option to plead not guilty, guilty, request a waiver hearing, or plead no contest. If you are unsure if you should plead no contest to a traffic ticket or request a waiver hearing, our attorney can help ensure that you fully understand each option and how they may affect you in the long run.
What Is the Difference Between a No Contest Plea and a Waiver Hearing?
After receiving a traffic ticket in Maryland, there are several options you have to consider in regards to how you will plead. Two options that many motorists may consider are a no contest plea or a waiver hearing. The difference between waiver hearings and no contest pleas can quickly become confusing. Here’s what you need to know:
Understanding a No Contest Plea
Also referred to as a nolo contendere, a no contest plea is neither an admission of guilt nor an allegation that you did not commit the traffic offense that you received the ticket for. When you choose to plead no contest for a traffic ticket, you are essentially telling the court you will not challenge, or contest the facts giving rise to the ticket. However, before you may plead no contest, you will need to obtain approval from the court.
When you are issued a ticket for a traffic violation and choose to plead no contest, you will likely be in the same place as you would have been but without making the statement to the court that you are guilty. Assuming the court grants you a Probation Before Judgment, the violation will not be noted on your record and there will be no impact on your insurance rate. However, you should be aware that if you commit the same traffic violation again, the no contest plea can be brought to the court’s attention and you may be issued a more serious penalty. It’s also important to note that a no contest plea still requires a court appearance.
To get help seeking approval for your no contest plea, contact a traffic lawyer as soon as possible.
Understanding a Waiver Hearing
A request for a waiver hearing will result in a trial date. However, a waiver hearing excuses the law enforcement officer who issued the traffic ticket from appearing in court. One of the biggest differences between a no contest plea and a waiver hearing is that when you request a waiver hearing, you will appear in court to essentially plead guilty or plead guilty with an explanation. When you do this, it is with the hope that your explanation or prior good driving record can result in the court choosing a lesser fine or withholding a guilty finding from your driving record. To get help with your request for a waiver hearing, retain the help of a knowledgeable Maryland lawyer.
Speak With a Top-Rated Traffic Lawyer Today
Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub is a former lawyer for MVA and has extensive knowledge of the difference between a no contest plea, waiver hearing, and all other matters concerning traffic tickets issued within the state. To begin discussing what your best legal options may be, get in touch by contacting us here or by calling (410) 580-1100 for a complimentary consultation.