What Happens If a Client Gets a Ticket?
Getting a traffic ticket is never fun, but usually the irritation of it is relatively short-lived if it is taken care of promptly. If your client has recently received a ticket, they may have the following questions about it.
What does it mean?
When a client receives and signs a traffic ticket, they are agreeing to either pay the ticket or appear in court. In most cases, your client will simply pay the ticket and, if available, attend traffic school to remove any points on their driving record. The traffic ticket may also raise your client's automobile insurance rates.
A traffic ticket can be expensive, but it is important that your client understand that ignoring a traffic ticket does not make it go away and could actually result in additional fines, suspension of their license, or even a warrant for their arrest. In addition, the ticket may be sent to collections and placed on their credit report.
If needed, your client may be able to pay the ticket fine over several months. Most courts offer monthly payment agreements that allow the fine to be paid in installments.
Do they have to go to court?
If your client received a ticket for a violation such as speeding or running a stop sign, it is usually not necessary to appear in court unless they plan on disputing the ticket. If the ticket was for a more serious violation such as reckless driving, or if it involved a traffic accident, then your client may need to appear in court and should consider retaining an attorney to represent them.
What if they die before they pay the ticket?
If an individual passes away prior to paying a traffic ticket, the individual's estate is probably responsible for paying the outstanding ticket, just as the estate is responsible for all other debts left by the individual at the time of their death. One exception may be if the individual passed away prior to their appointed court date. In that case, because the individual was not given due process, it is possible, depending on the state, that the ticket will be discharged. 1
If your client has recently received a traffic ticket, the best course of action is to take care of it promptly, whether by paying the fine or appearing in court. Resolving the ticket quickly will ensure that it does not lead to additional aggravation, financial or otherwise.
MEREDITH | PC
4325 Windsor Centre Trail
Suite 400
Flower Mound Texas 75028
214-513-1013
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as written advice about a Federal tax matter. Readers should consult with their own professional advisors to evaluate or pursue tax, accounting, financial, or legal planning strategies.
You have received this newsletter because I believe you will find its content valuable. Please feel free to Contact Me if you have any questions about this or any matters relating to estate planning.
