Illinois Traffic Ticket FAQs

Pull over in a safe manner as soon as reasonably possible. Put your vehicle in park, and turn off your engine and radio. Turn on your overhead light if it is dark outside, keep your hands visible (i.e. on the wheel), and roll down your window. It is usually best to wait to take out your driver’s license and insurance once requested by the officer. Any actions, such as reaching into your wallet, center console, or glove compartment may be considered ‘furtive’ movements by the officer.

Although being stopped by a police officer can be a frustrating and stressful experience, remain calm and friendly. Your attitude is extremely important during this process and can influence the ultimate resolution. Do not make excuses or argue with the officer.

If the officer asks you if you know why you were stopped, do not admit guilt. It is very possible that you are being recorded with video and/or audio and this evidence can later be used in court. Politely let the officer know that you are not sure why you were stopped.

If the officer claims that you committed a traffic violation, ask if he/she would consider issuing a warning rather than a traffic ticket. If the officer decides to issue you a traffic ticket, you should contact a traffic attorney while the details are still fresh in your mind to discuss the situation and your options.

You should always seek legal advice from an attorney when it comes to handling an Illinois traffic ticket. A driver should not step into court without understanding their options and the consequences of a conviction. In Illinois, it is typically not required that you retain the services of a traffic lawyer unless your traffic ticket rises to the level of a criminal offense (i.e. Speeding 26+ over the posted speed limit). Regardless, legal representation even on a petty traffic offense can make a world of difference depending on the specific circumstances surrounding your case.

Receiving a traffic ticket and appearing in court can be a stressful ordeal. An experienced Illinois traffic ticket attorney can help guide you through the process and often achieve the best result possible. An attorney may be able to reduce or completely eliminate the negative effects on your driver’s license.

In Illinois, your traffic ticket should indicate whether a court appearance is required. However, typically, with certain exceptions, you only have to appear if a conviction of the offense may result in possible jail time or automatic license suspension. Regardless, it is important to understand that simply mailing in payment for your moving violation is a plea of guilty, which will result in a conviction unless otherwise indicated. Convictions are entered on your public driving record with the Secretary of State, resulting in insurance increases and counting toward license suspension. A conviction may even affect current or future employment consequences. Except under very rare circumstances, DO NOT mail in payment for your ticket.

If you are unable to appear on your court date, depending on your specific charge, it may be possible for an attorney to appear on your behalf. An attorney may be able to resolve the matter without you attending court. In addition, it may be possible to have the court date changed with the judge’s permission or through the clerk's office. You should speak with an experienced traffic attorney to discuss the options available to you.

Drivers under 21 years of age face a driver’s license suspension for two moving violation convictions in 24 months. Also, it is important to note that driving on a suspended or revoked license is a criminal charge carrying with it serious potential consequences.

A conviction for certain offenses (i.e. failure to yield to an emergency vehicle or passing a stopped school bus) will cause an automatic license suspension in Illinois. When facing a potential license suspension, attending court with an experienced Illinois traffic attorney is critical.