Getting a speeding ticket lawyer involved early can make a real difference in the outcome.
For many Merced County drivers, one ticket can lead to higher insurance rates, lost wages, or even a suspended license.
When You Should Consider Hiring a Lawyer
To be perfectly honest, you don’t always need an attorney, but sometimes it’s the smartest choice. If the fine or insurance impact is significant, hiring a speeding ticket lawyer can help protect your wallet and your record.
If your job requires driving, even one point on your record can put your employment at risk.
We’ve seen commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders, Lyft, and delivery drivers terminated after a single violation. If you already have multiple tickets, a lawyer can help reduce the damage and possibly prevent a suspension.
How a Speeding Ticket Lawyer Can Help
A traffic attorney understands how to navigate Merced County traffic courts. Whether to negotiate for a no-point conviction or reduced charge, saving you from insurance hikes, or whether to go for the full dismissal, we are looking out for your best interest.
They can also handle court appearances, so you don’t need to take time off work.
Experienced attorneys can spot errors in the officer’s report or procedural mistakes that may lead to dismissal. They often can negotiate alternative resolutions such as traffic school, even when your speed was over the typical threshold.
“I’m a local Attorney and If you need a traffic attorney, these guys are THE BEST. Very professional and knowledgeable. They're known in the Courts and get amazing results. Whenever friends or family ask me about traffic issues I send them to Bigger & Harman.”—Kevin B., Bakersfield, CA.
Understanding Traffic Violator School (TVS)
Many drivers can take a DMV-approved TVS to keep a speeding ticket confidential. But not everyone qualifies.
If you were driving 1–24 mph over the limit, you’re most often eligible. However, pleading guilty and paying the fine could limit your options later. Always speak with a speeding ticket attorney before deciding to attend TVS.
A lawyer can determine if it’s better to contest the charge or negotiate approval with a traffic court judge for traffic school attendance, even when you might not qualify automatically.
The True Cost of a Speeding Ticket
The base fine for speeding may seem small, but the total cost isn’t. After county and state assessments, it can exceed several hundred dollars. The fine for a California speeding ticket can range from $238 for 1-15 mph over to between $859 and $2,137 for speeding over 100 mph.
But even the highest fine for speeding is less than the typical insurance increase.
In Merced County, one ticket could raise your premium by an average of $884 each year. Over three years, that’s often more than $2,650—sometimes much more. For example, if you have a teenager on your policy, you are likely paying 130% more for your premiums.
Fighting the ticket with an experienced traffic attorney can often save you far more than the upfront legal fee.
Local Enforcement in Merced County
Drivers often receive citations at busy intersections like G Street and Yosemite Avenue in Merced or along Pacheco Boulevard in Los Banos. Local officers frequently monitor these high-traffic areas, especially near schools and business zones.
That’s why consulting a speeding ticket lawyer familiar with Merced County traffic courts can make all the difference.
Consult Bigger & Harman, the Speeding Ticket Lawyers You Can Count On
Before paying a fine, consult with Bigger & Harman. Our attorneys understand the real cost of a conviction—higher premiums, added points, and job risks.
We’ve handled more than 30,000 traffic cases across California and regularly appear in Merced and Los Banos traffic courts. We’ll review your case honestly. If we can’t help, we’ll tell you upfront.
If you need to challenge a speeding ticket in Merced or Los Banos Courthouse? Call Bigger & Harman’s speeding ticket lawyers at (661) 349-9300—Marque 349-9755, para Español. Email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our secure online contact form.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: How much is a speeding ticket in Merced County, CA?
A: Speeding one to fifteen mph over the limit or safe driving speed is $238, 16-24 is around $360, speeding 25 or more over the limit is $490, and speeding over 100 mph is between $859 and $2,137, depending on the judge and the circumstances. However, an insurance premium increase could cost more than $2,500.
Q: Can a speeding ticket lawyer get my ticket dismissed?
A: Although only a judge can determine guilt, a speeding ticket lawyer can request a dismissal when the ticket-issuing officer doesn’t appear or there are procedural errors. Also, they might be able to negotiate for less points on your record.
Q: Should I fight my speeding ticket or pay the fine?
A: Every speeding ticket is different. Yours might be easily dismissed if the State’s evidence doesn’t establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Always consult a traffic attorney.
References:
CA VC Sections 22348, 22349, 22350, 22356, & [22348 - 22366] Speed Laws.
The CA DMV Traffic Violator Course Webpage.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.