Brunswick Traffic Defense Attorney

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we represent drivers facing traffic violations in Brunswick and the surrounding coastal Georgia communities. Attorney Jarrett Maillet is a former prosecutor with more than 20 years of legal experience. We review the circumstances of your citation, examine the evidence, and help you understand your options before making decisions that could affect your license or driving record.

Traffic Violations We Defend in Brunswick

Georgia’s traffic laws cover a wide range of driving behaviors, from speeding to offenses that may result in criminal charges. Although some citations can be resolved by paying a fine, others require a court appearance or carry more serious consequences.

Our firm assists drivers facing traffic-related allegations that may include:

• Speeding: Citations for allegedly exceeding posted speed limits.
• Reckless driving: Allegations that a driver operated a vehicle with reckless disregard for the safety of people or property.
• Improper lane changes: Accusations involving unsafe movement between lanes or failure to maintain a lane.
• Following too closely: Citations alleging that a driver failed to maintain a reasonable distance from another vehicle.
• Failure to obey traffic signals: Allegations involving red lights, stop signs, or other traffic-control devices.
• Driving without a valid license: Charges involving the absence of a valid driver’s license or related licensing issues.
• Driving with a suspended license: Criminal allegations involving the operation of a vehicle while driving privileges are suspended.

Not every traffic offense carries the same penalties. The consequences depend on the specific violation, the driver’s history, and whether the charge involves a criminal offense.

We focus on reviewing the allegations and identifying possible defenses rather than assuming that paying a fine is always the simplest solution.

Reckless Driving Charges in Brunswick, Georgia

Reckless driving is one of the more serious traffic offenses under Georgia law. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-390, a person commits reckless driving by operating a vehicle with reckless disregard for the safety of people or property.

A reckless driving conviction is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The court may also impose probation or other conditions permitted by law. A conviction generally adds four points to a Georgia driver’s record.

A driver might face reckless driving allegations after a high-speed incident, dangerous passing maneuver, or another situation in which police believe the driving created an unreasonable danger. However, Georgia does not automatically classify every speeding violation as reckless driving based on a single fixed speed threshold.

The prosecution must establish that the driver’s conduct meets the legal definition of reckless driving. We examine the officer’s observations, available video, road conditions, and other evidence to determine whether the allegations support that charge.

For someone accused of reckless driving on Interstate 95, U.S. Highway 17, or another road in Glynn County, understanding the difference between speeding and reckless driving can be important when evaluating the case.

Speeding Tickets and Georgia’s Super Speeder Law

Speeding is a common reason drivers receive traffic citations in Brunswick and surrounding Glynn County communities. Depending on the alleged speed, a conviction may result in fines, court costs, and points on a Georgia driving record.

Georgia’s point system assigns different values based on how far above the posted limit a driver was traveling. For example, speeding 15 to 18 mph over the limit generally results in two points, while speeding 24 to 33 mph over generally results in four points. Speeding 34 mph or more over the posted limit generally carries six points.

Georgia also has a Super Speeder law that imposes an additional $200 state fee for qualifying speeding convictions. The law generally applies to drivers convicted of traveling 75 mph or faster on a two-lane road or 85 mph or faster on another road or highway.

This fee is separate from the underlying court fine and costs. Failing to pay the required Super Speeder fee can create additional licensing consequences.

We review the speed alleged in the citation, the applicable limit, and how the officer determined the vehicle’s speed. Depending on the circumstances, questions about radar or laser equipment, identification of the vehicle, or the officer’s observations may be relevant.

How Traffic Tickets Affect Your Driving Record

Georgia uses a point system to track certain moving violations. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) generally assigns between two and six points for qualifying convictions, depending on the offense.

For drivers age 21 and older, accumulating 15 or more points within a 24-month period results in a license suspension. Younger drivers face stricter rules. Drivers ages 18 through 20 can face suspension for a single conviction involving a four-point violation, while drivers under 18 can face suspension after accumulating four points within 12 months.

A single citation may not seem serious, but its effect can be different for someone who already has points on their record. Additional convictions may bring a driver closer to suspension or create other licensing concerns.

Insurance companies may also consider traffic convictions when setting premiums. However, the effect on insurance depends on the violation, the driver’s history, and the insurer’s policies. Not every ticket results in the same increase.

Before deciding how to handle a citation, we consider the potential points, license consequences, and other penalties. Our goal is to help clients understand what is at stake and whether challenging the charge may be appropriate.

Paying a Traffic Ticket Can Have Consequences

Many drivers assume that paying a traffic ticket is simply a way to avoid going to court. In Georgia, however, paying a citation that can be resolved without a mandatory appearance generally means accepting the penalty and pleading guilty to the offense.

Once the case is resolved, the court reports the conviction to the Georgia Department of Driver Services. If the violation carries points, those points may be added to the driver’s record.

Some traffic offenses require a court appearance and cannot be resolved through advance payment. The citation and court instructions should identify the next steps, but drivers should not assume that every charge can be handled online.

A guilty plea can also have consequences beyond the immediate fine. For someone with previous violations, a new conviction may affect driving privileges or insurance costs.

We review the charge and explain the potential consequences before our clients decide whether to contest the citation or pursue another available resolution.

Traffic Stops Along I-95 and Highway 17 in Glynn County

Brunswick sits near major transportation routes used by local residents, commuters, and visitors traveling along Georgia’s coast. Interstate 95 passes through Glynn County, while U.S. Highway 17 connects Brunswick with nearby communities and coastal destinations.

Drivers may receive citations after traffic stops involving speeding, lane changes, following distance, or alleged unsafe driving. These incidents can occur on highways, local streets, or roads connecting Brunswick with St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

The location of a stop can matter when evaluating the evidence. Posted speed limits, traffic patterns, road signs, construction areas, and visibility may all be relevant depending on the alleged violation.

We examine the circumstances of the stop and the evidence used to support the citation. That may include the officer’s report, dashcam footage, photographs, witness statements, or information about speed detection equipment.

Although an officer’s citation carries weight in court, it does not automatically establish that every element of the alleged offense has been proven.

Challenging Evidence in a Brunswick Traffic Case

Traffic cases often turn on details that may not be obvious from the citation alone. An officer may allege that a driver was speeding, failed to obey a traffic signal, or made an unsafe maneuver. The prosecution must still establish the elements of the charged violation.

Depending on the circumstances, our defense may involve reviewing whether the officer correctly identified the vehicle, accurately measured its speed, or observed the alleged conduct clearly.

Potential issues include:

• Whether the officer had a lawful basis for the traffic stop
• Whether radar or laser equipment was operated properly
• Whether the alleged speed was accurately recorded
• Whether signs or traffic signals were visible and applicable
• Whether video or witness evidence supports the citation
• Whether the facts establish the specific offense charged

Not every procedural mistake results in dismissal. Likewise, a disagreement with an officer’s observations does not automatically defeat the charge.

We evaluate the available evidence and determine whether there are grounds to challenge it. When appropriate, we may seek dismissal, negotiate with prosecutors, or prepare to contest the allegations in court.

Traffic Court Proceedings in Brunswick and Glynn County

The court handling a traffic citation depends on where the alleged violation occurred and the nature of the charge. Cases may proceed through a municipal court, the State Court of Glynn County, or another court with jurisdiction over the offense.

Some traffic violations can be resolved without a court appearance, while others require the driver to attend a hearing. A citation involving a serious misdemeanor may involve different procedures than an ordinary payable ticket.

When a driver chooses to contest a charge, the process may include an initial appearance, discussions with prosecutors, and a hearing or trial. The available procedures depend on the court and the offense.

Our firm reviews the citation and court information to identify the applicable deadlines and requirements. We also explain whether a personal appearance is necessary or whether representation without the client’s attendance may be permitted.

Missing a required court appearance can create additional problems, including potential license suspension. We help clients understand their obligations and prepare for the next stage of their case.

Traffic Defense for Out-of-State Drivers

Brunswick’s location along Interstate 95 means many drivers cited in Glynn County live outside Georgia. Visitors traveling from Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, or other states may receive a citation while passing through the area.

An out-of-state driver still must address a Georgia traffic charge. Depending on the violation and the driver’s home state, a conviction may also affect driving privileges or insurance after the driver returns home.

The way states treat out-of-state convictions can vary. A violation that carries points in Georgia may be handled differently by another state’s licensing agency.

We help visiting drivers understand the Georgia proceedings, court requirements, and potential consequences. Where permitted, an attorney may be able to handle certain court matters without requiring the client to travel back to Brunswick, but that depends on the charge and court’s rules.

Before paying a ticket or assuming that an out-of-state citation will have no effect at home, it is worth reviewing the available options.

Driving With a Suspended License in Georgia

Driving while a license is suspended or revoked can lead to more serious consequences than an ordinary traffic citation. Under Georgia law, a person who operates a motor vehicle while their license or driving privileges are suspended may face criminal penalties.

The applicable penalties depend on the driver’s record and the circumstances. A first qualifying conviction is generally a misdemeanor, while repeat offenses can carry increased penalties.

Some drivers may not realize that their driving privileges have been suspended. Others may have questions about whether they received proper notice or whether their license was valid at the time of the alleged offense.

We examine the driver’s licensing history, the basis for the suspension, and the evidence supporting the charge. These cases require attention to both the criminal allegation and the administrative status of the driver’s license.

Our firm also provides criminal defense representation in Brunswick for clients facing charges that go beyond routine traffic citations.

Representation From Former Prosecutor Jarrett Maillet

Attorney Jarrett Maillet has more than 20 years of legal experience, including prior service as a prosecutor. That background helps him evaluate the evidence prosecutors rely on and the legal issues that may arise in traffic-related cases.

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we represent drivers facing qualifying traffic offenses in Brunswick and throughout Glynn County. We take time to review each client’s circumstances, explain the possible consequences, and develop a defense strategy based on the available evidence.

We understand that a traffic conviction can create problems for someone who relies on driving for work, family responsibilities, or daily transportation. Our approach focuses on protecting our clients’ rights and helping them make informed decisions about their cases.

Whether you are a local resident or received a citation while traveling through coastal Georgia, we can review the allegations and explain your options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brunswick Traffic Violations

Is Reckless Driving a Criminal Offense in Georgia?

Yes. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor under Georgia law. A conviction can result in a fine of up to $1,000, up to 12 months in jail, or both, along with other conditions permitted by law. It generally adds four points to a Georgia driver’s record. The prosecution must prove that the driver operated a vehicle with reckless disregard for the safety of people or property.

Can I Get a Traffic Ticket Dismissed if the Officer Does Not Appear in Court?

An officer’s absence does not automatically guarantee dismissal. The outcome depends on the court’s procedures, the type of hearing, and whether the prosecution can proceed with the available evidence. A judge may continue the case or take another action permitted by law. An attorney can explain the options if a necessary witness is unavailable.

How Many Points Does a Speeding Ticket Add in Georgia?

The number of points depends on how far above the posted speed limit the driver was traveling. Speeding 15 to 18 mph over generally carries two points, 19 to 23 mph over carries three points, 24 to 33 mph over carries four points, and 34 mph or more over carries six points. Georgia generally does not assess points for speeding less than 15 mph over the limit, although the violation may still have other consequences.

Can I Fight a Brunswick Traffic Ticket if I Live in Another State?

Yes. Out-of-state drivers can contest traffic citations issued in Brunswick. However, the case must be addressed through the appropriate Georgia court. Depending on the charge and court requirements, an attorney may be able to handle some proceedings without the driver returning to Georgia. A conviction may also affect the driver’s home-state record under that state’s rules.

Will Taking a Defensive Driving Course Remove Points From My Georgia License?

Georgia allows eligible licensed residents to request a reduction of up to seven points once every five years after completing an approved driver improvement course. This process does not erase the underlying conviction, and eligibility requirements apply. A course may also be relevant to certain court resolutions, but drivers should not assume it will automatically prevent points from being assessed.

Can a Traffic Ticket Lead to a Suspended License Without Reaching 15 Points?

Yes. Some violations and circumstances can result in license suspension without the driver accumulating 15 points. Georgia also has stricter suspension rules for drivers under 21, and certain offenses carry separate licensing consequences. The result depends on the driver’s age, record, and specific violation.

Should I Pay My Traffic Ticket Before Speaking With an Attorney?

Paying a citation that does not require a mandatory court appearance generally means pleading guilty and accepting the associated penalties. That may include points on your driving record. Before paying, it is worth understanding the potential consequences, particularly if you have prior violations, hold an out-of-state license, or face a serious charge.

Contact Our Brunswick Traffic Defense Attorney

A traffic citation can create more problems than the initial fine, particularly when it involves reckless driving, points on your record, or the possibility of losing your license. At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we review the allegations, examine the evidence, and help drivers understand their options under Georgia law.

If you are facing a traffic charge in Brunswick or Glynn County, call (912) 713-3426 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with attorney Jarrett Maillet. We are ready to discuss your case and help you determine the next steps.