Traffic Court Common Questions Part One: Driving Records

In Criminal, Traffic by GWAO

We don’t all start as experts (nor have we all read the original “ABCs of Traffic Law” book, pardon the plug).

Here is the first in a series of  highlights and common questions regarding traffic court necessities, touching on both practical knowledge and of the type of work a lawyer or client need to be aware of.  Today’s discussion focuses on the common question of Driving Records.

  • Driving Records – Typically, there are four methods to obtain a driving record.
  • FIRST – an attorney can get a free copy from the Sheriff’s Department using a standard form, which will need to be notarized, depending on the jurisdiction’s rules.

     

  • SECOND – you can get a copy from the NC DMV by use of this website, http://www.ncdot.org/dmv/records/, and by completing a DL-DPPA-1 form.
  • THIRD – you can get a copy from the DA’s office in open court on the court date, again, depending on your jurisdiction.
  • FOURTH – you can use a commercial provider (expensive).
  • How long is a Driving Record good for? – Depends on the Assistant District Attorney (ADA) and Judge. Generally, a record obtained within 30-days of court is valid, although some jurisdictions insist upon a seven day window or “day-of-court” records.