Street Racing Lawyer in Bakersfield

Serious Charges Need Focused Traffic Defense

A street racing or exhibition of speed charge in California is not just a simple ticket. It is a criminal offense that can affect your license, your record, your insurance, and your future. If you have been cited or arrested after an alleged racing incident in Bakersfield, you are right to take this seriously.

At Bigger & Harman, APC, we focus only on traffic law and regularly help drivers facing high-speed and racing-related allegations in Kern County. Our attorneys understand how these cases move through the Kern County Superior Court in downtown Bakersfield and what is realistically at stake for you. We know you may be worried about your license, your job, and how this will look on your record.

To schedule a consultation with our Bakersfield street racing lawyers call (661) 349-9300 or reach out online today.

Why Drivers Turn To Our Firm

When you are facing a street racing or exhibition of speed accusation, you do not want a general criminal practice that occasionally handles traffic cases. Our firm handles traffic matters only, including high stakes violations such as reckless driving, speeding over 100 miles per hour, and other misdemeanor traffic offenses that often overlap with alleged racing. This focus helps us stay current with how these cases are handled in this area and across California.

Our attorneys have been asked to assist with more than 20,000 traffic tickets across the state. That volume includes many serious speed related cases, so we have seen how different fact patterns and different judges can affect an outcome. We appear in Kern County courts on a regular basis and know the tendencies of local judges, clerks, and the law enforcement officers who write many of the citations here.

We use a flat fee to defend your driving record, and we understand how a conviction can lead to thousands of dollars in additional insurance premiums over time. Our goal is to help you avoid or limit points when possible, because that is often where the real long-term cost lies. In many traffic matters, we can attend court for you, which can reduce missed work and the stress of standing before the judge alone.

Clients come to us because they want clear communication and realistic advice. One of our firm’s founders holds a 9.4 Superb rating on Avvo, and we are members of the California Traffic Defense Bar Association. We also offer evening and weekend appointments, phone consultations, and Se Habla Español, so you can get help on a schedule and in a language that works for you.

Street Racing Charges & Penalties

Street racing and exhibition of speed charges can be filed when officers believe drivers used public roads for a contest of speed or for show. This might involve side-by-side acceleration from a light, a planned meet up, or burnouts and takeovers that draw a crowd. Even if no one was injured, prosecutors can still treat these incidents as serious public safety problems.

Under California law, street racing or exhibition of speed can be charged as a misdemeanor. Potential penalties may include fines, court fees, probation, community service, and in some cases a period of jail, especially where there are prior convictions or injuries. Vehicles involved can be subject to impound periods, which adds cost and inconvenience for the registered owner.

The DMV side of the case is just as important. Convictions in this category can place points on your driving record, and too many points within a set time frame can trigger a suspension. Even one high risk conviction can cause your insurance company to view you as a much riskier driver, which may result in steep premium increases or a loss of preferred coverage options.

What To Do After a Street Racing Charge

Once you receive a citation or are released from custody after an alleged racing incident, it can be tempting to put the paperwork aside and try not to think about it. That reaction is understandable, but your early decisions can have a major impact on the outcome. Taking a few careful steps now can help protect your license, your record, and your options.

You should read any citation or release documents closely and note your court date and the location, which in this area is often the Kern County courthouse in downtown Bakersfield. Missing that appearance can lead to additional consequences. It is also important to avoid posting about the incident on social media or discussing details with anyone other than your attorney, because those statements can sometimes be used in court.

Here are practical steps to take after a street racing or exhibition of speed charge:

• Keep your citation, booking paperwork, and any court notices together in a safe place.
• Write down what you remember about the stop, road conditions, and who else was present as soon as you can.
• Save any photos, dash cam footage, or messages that might relate to the incident, and do not delete potential evidence.
• Avoid talking about the details with officers or investigators without speaking to a lawyer first.

How a Bakersfield Street Racing Lawyer Helps

Facing a criminal street racing allegation can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first contact with the court system. A street racing lawyer Bakersfield drivers can turn to brings both legal knowledge and familiarity with local practice to your side. Our role is to guide you through each stage and to work to protect the parts of your life that matter most, such as your license and your future plans.

When you contact our firm, we start by gathering the citation, any police reports that are available, and your account of what happened. We look closely at the basis for the stop, how officers say they determined speed or racing behavior, and whether there are gaps or inconsistencies that might be important. In many matters, we evaluate whether the facts match the specific legal definition charged or if there may be room to argue for a reduced allegation.

Because we appear regularly in Kern County Superior Court, we understand how local judges and prosecutors tend to view different types of racing or exhibition fact patterns. That perspective helps us plan a defense strategy that fits the court where your case is heard. Our goal is to work toward outcomes that avoid or limit points, reduce overall penalties when possible, and protect your record in a way that may lessen DMV and insurance consequences. Results depend on the facts and history in each case, so we always explain what factors matter most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for street racing?

Street racing, or exhibition of speed, is usually charged as a misdemeanor, with possible fines, probation, community service, and, in some cases, jail time. There can also be vehicle impound fees, DMV points, and significant insurance increases. Exact penalties depend on your record, the facts, and the judge.

Will I lose my license for a first offense?

A first offense does not always lead to a suspension, but it can put points on your record and may trigger action if you already have prior points. The risk depends on your driving history and the exact charge. Our attorneys review your record and explain realistic DMV consequences.

Can your attorneys go to court for me?

In most traffic-related cases in Kern County, our attorneys can appear in court on a client’s behalf. Whether that is possible in your matter depends on the exact charge and how the court classifies it. We discuss this during your consultation so you know what to expect.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

We handle traffic cases for a flat fee rather than hourly billing. The exact amount depends on the type of charge and where the case is filed. Your initial consultation is free, and we explain fees clearly so you can weigh them against potential fines and long-term insurance costs.

How soon should I contact a lawyer?

It is usually best to contact a lawyer as soon as you receive a citation, release paperwork, or court date. Early involvement allows more time to review evidence and plan for your first appearance. Our firm offers flexible scheduling so you can speak with us promptly about your situation.

Talk To Our Traffic Defense Team

A street racing or exhibition of speed charge in this area puts your license, your record, and your finances at risk, but you do not have to face it alone. Speaking with a traffic focused firm gives you a clearer picture of what you are dealing with and what steps might help protect your future.

Bigger & Harman, APC is based in Bakersfield and handles traffic law only. We have more than a decade of experience, have been asked to assist with over 20,000 traffic tickets across California, and regularly appear in Kern County Superior Court. Our attorneys offer flat fees, flexible appointment times, and Se Habla Español, so it is straightforward to get answers about your options.

To discuss your Bakersfield street racing case with our team, call (661) 349-9300 or reach out online today.