What does a traffic lawyer do?
Traffic lawyers handle a variety of issues related to traffic laws. They often provide legal representation and advice to individuals who are accused of traffic violations. They handle a variety of cases such as parking tickets, moving violations, reckless driving, suspended licenses, driving without insurance or registration, and drunk driving offenses. The law allows all drivers to contest a traffic infraction and traffic lawyers provide valuable assistance. They gather the necessary information and evidence to build viable cases. They try to minimize the fines related to tickets or even get the charges dropped.
What kind of training does a traffic lawyer need?
Traffic lawyers must have a bachelor degree and law degree from an accredited law school. All law schools require candidates to receive a satisfactory score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) to become admitted. Law school provides intensive instruction and enables students to participate in many practical learning opportunities. Most law schools require students to complete an internship prior to graduation. Many aspiring traffic lawyers complete internships or clerkships at firms that specialize in traffic law to gain practical experience and establish valuable contacts. All states require traffic lawyers to pass the state bar examination and become licensed to practice law. Many states also require a separate ethics examination. Traffic lawyers must complete regular continuing legal education to maintain their licenses, keep their skills up to date, and stay abreast with advancements and changes in the field.
What are the prospects for a career as a traffic lawyer?
Employment of all lawyers, including traffic lawyers is expected to grow about as fast as average for all professions, increasing 13% from 2008 to 2018 (1). The growing population and increase in traffic violations will drive job growth of traffic lawyers.
Job prospects are expected to be good with strong competition. Traffic lawyers with excellent academic records and extensive experience will have the best job opportunities.
How much do traffic lawyers make?
As of February 2010, the average annual salary for traffic lawyers is $80,000; average annual traffic lawyer salaries vary greatly on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).
A career as a traffic lawyer is a great choice for people with a strong interest in traffic law and providing representation to a variety of clients. Traffic lawyers must have a solid understanding of the concepts, rules, and regulations related to traffic law. Patience, perseverance, detail orientation, critical thinking, and good problem solving skills are necessary characteristics. Traffic lawyers must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a wide range of clients and other legal professionals. They must be quick on their feet and be able to make effective decisions under stress and pressure.
