If you’re thinking about hiring a speeding ticket lawyer in Merced or Los Banos in Merced County, you’re not alone.
Whether your ticket came from a CHP stop on Interstate 5 or while commuting locally, it’s smart to understand your legal options.
We’re here to help make that decision easier.
How Much Could a Speeding Ticket Really Cost You?
At first glance, you may not think a minor speeding ticket is worth fighting. But it can cost much more than the fine itself.
In California, here’s what you’re looking at:
1–15 mph over the limit: $238 fine and 1 NOTS point (stays on your driving record for up to 39 months).
16–24 mph over: Around $360 and 1 NOTS point.
25+ mph but under 100: $490 and 1 NOTS point. TVS must be approved by a traffic court judge.
100+ mph: Fines between $859 and $2,137, 2 NOTS points, and no TVS option. Mandatory court appearance and the possibility of an immediate 30-day license suspension if convicted.
That doesn’t include what your insurance might do. Most drivers don’t realize how fast costs can add up.
“Full coverage car insurance costs an average of $3,100 per year in California. The average cost for state minimum coverage is $910 per year.”—Bankrate.com.
However, a conviction for speeding 100+ mph could double or triple your premium.
Hiring a speeding ticket lawyer improves your chances.
Compelling Reasons for Hiring a Speeding Ticket Lawyer
Maybe the only disadvantage to hiring a traffic ticket attorney is their fee.
However, in many cases, the fee for hiring a speeding ticket lawyer might be the same or more than the fine. So, what is the point?
Upon examining the facts, hiring a speeding ticket lawyer has numerous benefits that may justify the upfront expense.
For instance, the extreme rise in auto insurance premiums for the next three years if convicted. The average driver in Los Banos or Merced, CA, pays $2,697 annually for full coverage auto insurance, according to Bankrate.com.
A speeding ticket conviction could raise the driver’s premium by more than 30% with the loss of their “20% good driver’s discount,” even for a first conviction or paid fine.
That could mean an $810 increase per year for three years, or $2,430 until the conviction is removed from their motor vehicle driving record (MVR). Certainly, you can hire a speeding ticket lawyer for less than that.
Having multiple tickets or getting more than one during a short period could mean a driver’s license suspension.
Therefore, getting even one of these tickets dismissed could make a huge difference. Hiring a speeding ticket attorney might help you avoid the economic downturn experienced by many California drivers with a suspension.
For commercial drivers, it’s almost imperative that they hire a speeding ticket lawyer to dispute their ticket in court.
Why Hiring a Speeding Ticket Lawyer Could Be the Best Decision for Your Family Budget
Let’s be honest. Most folks aren’t trained to fight a traffic ticket in court. We are.
Speed measurement device calibration, officer testimony, pacing methods—this is where we shine during negotiations and in court.
We know how and if we should request calibration logs and subpoena officer training records. These small details can change your outcome dramatically.
A judge might allow a veteran patrol officer’s speed estimate, but an inexperienced officer may not be given that latitude. We can raise the level of “reasonable doubt.” That could lead to a dismissal.
Don’t Be Fooled by DIY & Guaranteed Dismissal Stories Online
Yes, some people manage to get their tickets dismissed when they self-represent. But they’re the exception.
The truth? Most drivers walk into Merced County traffic court unprepared, experience stage fright when trying to present their case to the judge, or inadvertently self-incriminate.
Then, they’re forced to pay the fine and live with higher insurance. We’ve seen it happen time and again.
We’re not saying you always need to hire us. But talk to us first. Let us help you weigh the pros and cons before you go it alone.
Consult with Bigger & Harman About What our Attorneys Can Do On Your Merced County Speeding Ticket
If you’re facing a speeding ticket in Los Banos or Merced Courthouse, contact Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300 —se habla Español 349-9755—to set up an appointment.
Our firm has more than a decade of legal assistance experience in traffic law. We are California Traffic Defense Bar Association members.
We’ve been featured on the Bakersfield Law TV based on our legal acumen!
Use our online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.
CA VC Section 22350, Speed Laws.