Arlington VA Traffic Ticket Lawyer – SRIS Law P.C.

Key Takeaways for Your Arlington Traffic Ticket

  • Don’t Just Pay: Paying a traffic ticket in Arlington, VA, is an admission of guilt that can lead to demerit points, higher insurance premiums, and even license suspension.
  • Understand Virginia Law: Virginia’s traffic laws, especially reckless driving (Va. Code § 46.2-862) and speeding (Va. Code § 46.2-870), carry severe penalties beyond simple fines.
  • The Court Process Matters: Navigating the Arlington General District Court requires knowledge of local procedures and effective presentation of your case.
  • Defense Strategies Exist: From challenging evidence to negotiating plea agreements, a seasoned traffic violation lawyer VA can explore multiple avenues to protect your driving record.
  • Act Swiftly: Timely action and engaging with a knowledgeable legal team are critical for a favorable outcome, ensuring all options are considered before your court date.

Navigating Traffic Tickets in Arlington, VA: A Seasoned Attorney’s Guide

For decades, I have stood by individuals in Arlington, Virginia, who find themselves unexpectedly facing a traffic ticket. What often appears to be a minor inconvenience can, in fact, carry profound and lasting consequences, impacting your driving privileges, insurance rates, and even your professional life. As a senior attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., with over 20 years of dedicated experience in Virginia’s traffic courts, I’ve witnessed firsthand the complexities and potential pitfalls that await those who underestimate the seriousness of a traffic infraction in our Commonwealth.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the authoritative insights necessary to navigate the often-intimidating legal landscape surrounding traffic violations in Arlington, VA. We will delve into the nuances of Virginia law, explore the procedural intricacies of the local courts, and discuss the strategic approaches that can be employed to safeguard your rights and your driving record. Whether you are contending with a speeding ticket, a reckless driving charge, or another form of traffic violation, understanding your options is the first critical step toward a favorable resolution. We aim to transform your apprehension into clarity, providing a clear roadmap through the legal journey ahead.

Understanding Arlington’s Traffic Law Landscape

Virginia’s traffic laws are designed to deter unsafe driving practices and maintain order on our roads, but they also carry significant penalties that extend far beyond a simple fine for residents and visitors in Arlington, VA. Beyond the immediate financial cost, a traffic ticket can lead to demerit points on your driving record, substantial increases in insurance premiums, and in severe cases, the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, impacting your daily life and livelihood.

Consequences and Stakes in Arlington, VA

In Arlington, as throughout Virginia, the ramifications of a traffic violation can be profound. Even a seemingly minor infraction can accumulate demerit points on your driving record, which are reported to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Accumulating too many points within a specific timeframe can trigger mandatory driver improvement clinics or, more severely, lead to the suspension of your driving privileges. For instance, receiving 18 demerit points in 12 months or 24 points in 24 months can result in a license suspension. The impact on your insurance rates is almost immediate and can persist for years, potentially costing you thousands of dollars in increased premiums.

More serious offenses, such as reckless driving or driving while suspended, can escalate from simple infractions to misdemeanors or even felonies under Virginia law. For example, Virginia Code § 46.2-862 broadly defines reckless driving to include driving in a manner that endangers life, limb, or property. This can encompass excessive speeding (Va. Code § 46.2-870), racing, or driving with improper control. A first reckless driving conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a six-month license suspension, as outlined in Virginia Code § 18.2-11. These are not mere tickets; they are criminal charges with serious implications for your freedom and future.

Understanding the specific Virginia Codes governing your alleged violation is crucial. For instance, general speed limits are addressed in Virginia Code § 46.2-870, while specific instances of reckless driving due to speed are covered under § 46.2-862. It is vital to recognize that traffic laws in Arlington are enforced rigorously, and the consequences of ignoring them, or simply paying the fine without a fight, can be far-reaching. As a seasoned traffic violation lawyer VA, I strongly advise against underestimating these charges; seeking counsel from an attorney experienced in Arlington traffic cases is paramount.

The Arlington Traffic Court Process

The legal process for a traffic ticket in Arlington, VA, typically begins with the issuance of a citation by law enforcement and can culminate in a hearing at the Arlington General District Court, involving various key agencies and specific procedural steps. Navigating this system effectively often requires a clear understanding of each stage, from initial police interaction to potential appeal.

From Citation to Court: What to Expect

When you receive a traffic citation in Arlington, issued by the Virginia State Police or the Arlington County Police Department, it will specify the alleged violation and a court date. Your options at this point typically include pre-paying the ticket (which is an admission of guilt), requesting a continuance, or appearing in court to contest the charge. For many traffic infractions, such as minor speeding tickets (Virginia Code § 46.2-947), pre-payment might seem convenient, but it carries the automatic imposition of demerit points and insurance premium hikes. It is critical to consider the long-term impact before opting for this route.

If you choose to contest the ticket, your case will be heard in the Arlington General District Court. This is where the intricacies of local court procedure come into play. On your court date, you will appear before a judge, who will hear testimony from the issuing officer and any witnesses, review evidence, and listen to your defense or your attorney’s arguments. The burden of proof typically lies with the Commonwealth to demonstrate your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt for criminal offenses like reckless driving, or by a preponderance of the evidence for civil infractions. The judge will then render a decision. This appearance can be a daunting experience, particularly for those unfamiliar with courtroom etiquette and legal advocacy.

The Role of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

Beyond the court system, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) plays a central role in managing your driving record and privileges. Any conviction for a traffic offense in Arlington is reported to the DMV, which then assigns demerit points based on the severity of the violation. These points remain on your record for two years, though the conviction itself may show for much longer. For example, a conviction for driving while license suspended or revoked (Virginia Code § 46.2-300) carries significant demerit points and can extend the period of your suspension. The DMV is also responsible for administering driver improvement clinics, monitoring repeat offenders, and ultimately, suspending or revoking licenses based on accumulated demerit points or serious offenses. An experienced speeding ticket attorney Arlington understands how court outcomes directly impact your DMV record and can strategize to minimize these long-term effects.

The SRIS Arlington Traffic Ticket Defense Roadmap Tool

To provide a clear, actionable path through the complexities of contesting a traffic ticket in Arlington, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has developed the SRIS Arlington Traffic Ticket Defense Roadmap Tool, a practical guide to help you systematically prepare for your case. This tool encapsulates decades of experience, offering a structured approach to defense.

The SRIS Arlington Traffic Ticket Defense Roadmap Tool

Navigating a traffic ticket can feel overwhelming, but with a structured approach, you can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. This roadmap provides critical steps and considerations:

  1. Immediate Assessment & Information Gathering:
    • Review the Citation: Carefully examine the ticket for accuracy – date, time, location, officer’s name, alleged speed, and specific code sections cited (e.g., Va. Code § 46.2-870 for speeding). Any inaccuracies might be grounds for defense.
    • Document the Scene: If safe and possible, take photos or videos of the location where you were stopped, including road conditions, signage, sightlines, and any relevant landmarks.
    • Recall Details: Write down everything you remember about the stop: time, weather, traffic conditions, specific statements made by you or the officer, duration of the stop, and methods used (e.g., radar, lidar, pacing).
  2. Understand the Charges & Consequences:
    • Identify the Specific Violation: Is it a simple speeding ticket, reckless driving, or another traffic infraction? Understand the legal definition of the charge.
    • Assess Potential Penalties: Research the demerit points, fines, license suspension possibilities, and insurance implications for your specific charge under Virginia law.
  3. Gather Supporting Evidence:
    • Witness Statements: If there were passengers or bystanders, obtain their contact information and statements.
    • Vehicle Maintenance Records: If equipment issues (e.g., speedometer calibration) are relevant to your defense, gather maintenance records.
    • Dashcam/Bodycam Footage: If you have personal dashcam footage, preserve it. Your attorney may be able to request officer bodycam/dashcam footage.
    • Calibration Records: For speed-related offenses, the calibration records for the officer’s radar/lidar device can be critical.
  4. Strategize Your Defense (with Counsel):
    • Procedural Defenses: Look for issues with how the stop was conducted, how the citation was issued, or how evidence was collected.
    • Factual Defenses: Challenge the facts of the case, such as your actual speed, conditions, or identification.
    • Mitigating Factors: Consider presenting factors that might mitigate your culpability, such as emergencies, traffic conditions, or a clean driving record.
    • Negotiation Options: Explore possibilities for a reduced charge, deferral programs, or dismissal in exchange for completing traffic school.
  5. Prepare for Court & Present Your Case:
    • Dress Appropriately: Present a respectful, professional image.
    • Organize Evidence: Have all your documents, photos, and notes readily accessible.
    • Practice Testimony: If you plan to testify, practice your statements. Be concise and truthful.
    • Engage Legal Counsel: This is arguably the most critical step. A seasoned speeding ticket attorney Arlington, such as those at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., can prepare arguments, cross-examine the officer, negotiate with the prosecutor, and represent you effectively in the Arlington General District Court.
  6. Post-Verdict Steps:
    • Understand the Outcome: Ensure you clearly understand the judge’s ruling, including any fines, court costs, or conditions.
    • Follow Through: If required, pay fines, attend driver improvement clinics, or complete community service by the deadlines.
    • Appeal (if applicable): If you believe an error occurred, discuss appeal options with your attorney immediately, as strict deadlines apply.

This roadmap is a foundational guide. Remember, every case is unique, and professional legal counsel remains your strongest asset. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is here to guide you through each step, leveraging our deep experience as a traffic violation lawyer VA.

Proven Strategies for Your Defense

Effectively defending against a traffic ticket in Arlington, VA, involves more than just explaining your side of the story; it requires a strategic approach that leverages legal precedents, challenges evidence, and, when appropriate, engages in skilled negotiation. Our seasoned experience in the Arlington General District Court allows us to identify and pursue the most viable defense avenues for your specific situation.

Challenging the Commonwealth’s Evidence

One of the most powerful strategies in a traffic ticket defense is to scrutinize and challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution. This often involves questioning the accuracy and reliability of the officer’s methods and equipment. For instance, if you were cited for speeding (Virginia Code § 46.2-870), we may investigate:

  • Radar/Lidar Calibration: Was the speed measuring device properly calibrated and maintained? Officers are required to perform daily calibration checks, and their records can be requested. A lack of recent, proper calibration can weaken the prosecution’s case.
  • Officer’s Training and Experience: Is the officer adequately trained in using the specific speed detection equipment? Their proficiency can be questioned.
  • Visual Estimation: Was the officer’s visual estimation of your speed sufficiently reliable? Visual estimates alone are often less persuasive than calibrated equipment readings.
  • Pacing Errors: If pacing was used, were there any obstructions or circumstances that could have led to an inaccurate assessment?
  • Dashcam/Bodycam Footage: Analysis of footage can sometimes reveal inconsistencies in the officer’s testimony or environmental factors that support your defense.
  • Road Conditions and Signage: Were speed limit signs clearly visible and correctly posted? Were road conditions (weather, visibility) adequately considered?

For more serious charges like reckless driving (Virginia Code § 46.2-862), challenging the evidence involves examining whether the Commonwealth can truly prove endangerment or disregard for safety. This may involve accident reconstruction, witness testimony, or scrutinizing the officer’s subjective assessment of your driving behavior.

Negotiation and Plea Bargaining

Not every case is best fought through direct confrontation of evidence. Sometimes, the most pragmatic approach involves negotiation with the prosecutor. An experienced traffic violation lawyer VA can often negotiate for a reduced charge, which could mean fewer or no demerit points, a lower fine, or avoiding a criminal conviction entirely. For example, a reckless driving charge might be reduced to improper driving (Virginia Code § 46.2-869) or a minor speeding infraction, significantly mitigating the penalties. This often involves demonstrating your commitment to safe driving, perhaps through voluntary completion of a defensive driving course, or highlighting your otherwise clean driving record.

Another common outcome is a “continuance for good behavior,” where the case is dismissed after a period if you commit no further offenses and meet certain conditions, such as completing a driver improvement course. This allows you to avoid a conviction on your record altogether. Our attorneys at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. possess the relationships and negotiation skills honed over decades to effectively advocate for these types of favorable resolutions in the Arlington General District Court.

The choice between challenging evidence and negotiating a plea depends heavily on the specific facts of your case, the strength of the evidence against you, and your driving history. A thorough assessment by a knowledgeable traffic ticket lawyer Arlington VA is crucial to determining the optimal strategy for your defense.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Facing a Traffic Ticket in Arlington

Many individuals inadvertently jeopardize their traffic ticket defense in Arlington, VA, by making common errors that could easily be avoided with proper guidance and timely action. Understanding these pitfalls is as crucial as knowing the right steps to take.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Automatically Paying the Fine: This is the most prevalent and damaging mistake. Paying a traffic ticket is an admission of guilt. It results in demerit points on your driving record, which can lead to increased insurance premiums, potential license suspension, and negatively impact your driving history for years. Many people regret this decision once they see the long-term consequences.
  2. Ignoring the Ticket: Failing to respond to a traffic ticket by the designated court date or payment deadline can lead to serious repercussions, including a warrant for your arrest, additional fines, immediate license suspension by the DMV, and the inability to renew your license until the matter is resolved.
  3. Talking Too Much at the Scene: While it’s important to be polite, anything you say to the officer can be used against you in court. Admitting guilt or offering explanations that contradict your later defense can significantly harm your case. It’s best to provide your license, registration, and insurance, and politely decline to answer accusatory questions without legal counsel.
  4. Failing to Gather Immediate Information/Evidence: Not documenting the scene (photos of road conditions, signage), failing to note the officer’s details or method of speed detection, or neglecting to get witness contact information immediately after the stop can deprive your defense of crucial supporting evidence.
  5. Appearing in Court Unprepared: Going to the Arlington General District Court without understanding the charges, without reviewing the relevant Virginia Code sections (like Virginia Code § 46.2-862 for reckless driving), or without a clear strategy for presenting your case is a recipe for a poor outcome. You need to know what you’re up against.
  6. Believing “It’s Just a Ticket”: Underestimating the severity, particularly for offenses like reckless driving or high-speed violations, is dangerous. These are often criminal misdemeanors in Virginia with potential jail time, significant fines, and long-term license implications.
  7. Not Consulting a Traffic Ticket Lawyer Arlington VA: Many assume legal representation is too expensive or unnecessary for a traffic ticket. However, the costs saved in avoided insurance increases, demerit points, and potential employment issues often far outweigh the legal fees. A seasoned attorney understands the local court system and how to craft the strongest defense.

Glossary of Key Traffic Law Terms

To fully comprehend the legal discussions surrounding traffic tickets in Arlington, VA, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the precise meanings of key legal terms often encountered in the courtroom and official documents. This glossary defines critical concepts pertinent to Virginia traffic law.

Glossary of Key Terms

Reckless Driving
In Virginia, driving a vehicle in a manner that endangers the life, limb, or property of any person, or exceeding certain speed thresholds (e.g., 20 mph over the limit or over 85 mph), as defined by Virginia Code § 46.2-862. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Demerit Points
Points assigned to your driving record by the Virginia DMV upon conviction for a traffic offense. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension or mandatory driver improvement clinics. The number of points varies with the severity of the offense.
Pre-Pay
The option to pay a traffic ticket fine before a court date, which serves as an admission of guilt and results in a conviction on your driving record. This option is not available for all offenses, especially serious ones like reckless driving.
Continuance
A postponement of a court hearing to a later date. This can be requested by the defendant or their attorney to gather more evidence, secure witnesses, or prepare a stronger defense.
Virginia DMV
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, the state agency responsible for issuing driver’s licenses, vehicle registrations, and maintaining driving records, including tracking demerit points and imposing suspensions.
Reduced Charge
An outcome where a more serious traffic offense (e.g., reckless driving) is negotiated down to a lesser charge (e.g., improper driving or a minor speeding infraction), often resulting in fewer demerit points and less severe penalties.
Improper Driving
A lesser offense than reckless driving in Virginia (Virginia Code § 46.2-869), carrying fewer demerit points and a smaller fine. It is a common outcome when a reckless driving charge is negotiated down, indicating driving that was not as dangerous as originally alleged.

Real-World Scenarios & Your Arlington Traffic Ticket

Traffic violations rarely occur in a vacuum; they often arise from specific situations that influence the best course of action. These scenarios illustrate common circumstances in Arlington, VA, and highlight how a seasoned traffic ticket lawyer Arlington VA can provide invaluable guidance.

Common Scenarios & Questions

Scenario 1: The Out-of-State Driver & Arlington Speeding Ticket

Question: “I’m from Maryland, was driving through Arlington on I-395, and got a speeding ticket for going 75 in a 55 zone. I don’t want points on my Maryland license. What should I do?”

Answer: As an out-of-state driver, paying the ticket might seem easiest, but Virginia will report the conviction to Maryland via the Interstate Driver’s License Compact, affecting your MD license and insurance. This speed (20 mph over) can be charged under Virginia Code § 46.2-870 and might even approach reckless driving territory if it was over 85 mph. A seasoned traffic violation lawyer VA can often appear on your behalf, potentially negotiate for a reduction to a non-moving violation, or even a dismissal, thereby preventing points from transferring to your Maryland record and saving you significant future costs on insurance.

Scenario 2: Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Holder & Minor Infraction

Question: “I hold a CDL and received a ticket for following too closely in Arlington, VA. It feels minor, but I’m worried about my livelihood. Can this affect my CDL?”

Answer: For CDL holders, even seemingly minor traffic infractions can have disproportionately severe consequences, potentially leading to suspension of your CDL or even disqualification from commercial driving, as regulated by both Virginia and federal law. Virginia Code § 46.2-864 addresses following too closely. A traffic ticket lawyer Arlington VA understands the specific regulations governing CDL holders and can work diligently to mitigate the impact, aiming for a dismissal or a non-moving violation to protect your professional driving privileges. Your ability to earn a living depends on protecting your CDL.

Scenario 3: Reckless Driving Charge from “Excessive Speed” in Arlington

Question: “I was going 90 mph on I-66 in Arlington and was charged with reckless driving (Virginia Code § 46.2-862). I heard this is a misdemeanor. What’s the best defense for such a serious charge?”

Answer: A charge of reckless driving by speed (90 mph in a 65 mph zone, for instance) is indeed a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, carrying potential jail time, hefty fines, and an automatic six-month license suspension. This is far from “just a ticket.” The defense strategy for such a serious charge requires meticulous preparation. It could involve challenging the officer’s speed measurement device calibration, presenting mitigating circumstances, or negotiating for a reduction to a lesser offense like improper driving (Virginia Code § 46.2-869). A seasoned speeding ticket attorney Arlington is critical to navigate the Arlington General District Court and build a robust defense to avoid a criminal record and protect your driving privileges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Arlington Traffic Tickets

Addressing common queries is part of our commitment to providing clarity for those facing traffic tickets in Arlington, VA. These frequently asked questions offer concise answers to help you understand typical concerns and the steps you can take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Should I just pay my traffic ticket in Arlington, VA, or fight it?

A: Unless it’s a very minor parking ticket, generally, it’s advisable to consider fighting a traffic ticket rather than simply paying it. Paying is an admission of guilt, which leads to demerit points on your Virginia DMV record, increased insurance rates, and potential license suspension. A traffic ticket lawyer Arlington VA can assess your case and advise if fighting it is in your best interest.

Q2: How many demerit points will I get for a speeding ticket in Virginia?

A: The number of demerit points varies based on the severity of the speeding offense. For example, speeding 10-19 mph over the limit typically results in 3 demerit points, while speeding 20 mph or more over the limit can result in 4 or 6 demerit points, depending on the specific charge. Reckless driving carries 6 points.

Q3: What is “reckless driving” in Virginia, and why is it so serious?

A: Reckless driving in Virginia (Virginia Code § 46.2-862) is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is a criminal offense. It encompasses various driving behaviors, including driving over 85 mph or 20 mph over the posted speed limit, driving in a manner that endangers life, limb, or property. It’s serious because it can lead to jail time (up to 12 months), significant fines (up to $2,500), and license suspension (up to 6 months).

Q4: Will a traffic ticket affect my car insurance rates in Arlington?

A: Yes, almost certainly. Insurance companies review your driving record, and a traffic conviction (especially for moving violations) signals increased risk, leading to higher premiums for several years. The exact increase depends on your insurer, your driving history, and the severity of the conviction.

Q5: Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in Arlington?

A: While not legally required for all tickets, retaining a seasoned speeding ticket attorney Arlington is highly recommended, especially for charges that carry significant points, large fines, or potential criminal penalties (like reckless driving). An attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor, challenge evidence, appear on your behalf, and work to minimize the impact on your record and insurance.

Q6: Can I get my reckless driving charge reduced to improper driving in Virginia?

A: Yes, it is often possible to negotiate a reckless driving charge down to improper driving (Virginia Code § 46.2-869), which is a civil infraction carrying fewer demerit points (3 points) and a smaller fine. This is a common strategy employed by an experienced traffic violation lawyer VA, often requiring the presentation of mitigating factors or completion of a driver improvement course.

Q7: What is the Arlington General District Court’s role in traffic cases?

A: The Arlington General District Court is where most traffic infraction and misdemeanor cases for violations occurring in Arlington County are heard. Judges preside over these cases, hear testimony, review evidence, and render judgments. Understanding their procedures is key to a successful defense.

Q8: Can a traffic ticket impact my employment, especially if I drive for a living?

A: Absolutely. For individuals whose jobs involve driving (e.g., CDL holders, delivery drivers, sales professionals), traffic convictions can lead to job loss or make it difficult to secure future employment. Even for non-driving jobs, serious criminal traffic offenses can appear on background checks.

Q9: What happens if I fail to appear in court for my traffic ticket?

A: If you fail to appear in the Arlington General District Court on your scheduled date, the judge can issue a “failure to appear” charge, which can lead to an arrest warrant, an additional misdemeanor charge, and an indefinite suspension of your driver’s license by the DMV.

Q10: Can I take a defensive driving course to reduce points or dismiss my ticket?

A: In some cases, completing a Virginia DMV-approved driver improvement course can result in safe driving points (plus 5 points) or can be a condition for a reduction or dismissal of a traffic charge, especially if negotiated by an attorney. It shows the court your commitment to safe driving.

Q11: How long does a traffic ticket stay on my driving record in Virginia?

A: Demerit points stay on your record for two years from the date of the offense. However, the conviction itself for serious offenses like reckless driving or DUI can remain on your driving record and abstract for 11 years or more, impacting insurance rates and background checks.

Q12: Is there a difference between a traffic infraction and a misdemeanor in Virginia?

A: Yes, a significant difference. A traffic infraction is a civil offense punishable by fines and demerit points. A traffic misdemeanor (like reckless driving or DUI) is a criminal offense punishable by fines, demerit points, license suspension, and potential jail time. Misdemeanors create a criminal record.

Q13: Can an attorney help me if I’m an out-of-state driver with an Arlington ticket?

A: Absolutely. An experienced traffic ticket lawyer Arlington VA can often appear in court on your behalf, meaning you may not have to travel back to Virginia. They understand how Virginia convictions impact out-of-state licenses and can work to minimize these consequences.

Q14: What kind of evidence can help my traffic ticket defense?

A: Helpful evidence can include photos or videos of the scene, witness statements, dashcam or bodycam footage, speedometer calibration records, vehicle maintenance records, and any documentation challenging the officer’s methods or observations. Your attorney can help you identify and gather relevant evidence.

At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we believe that every individual deserves a robust defense, irrespective of the perceived severity of the charge. Our attorneys bring decades of collective wisdom and a profound understanding of Virginia’s legal landscape to your case. If you’re facing a traffic ticket in Arlington, VA, don’t leave your driving record and future to chance.

Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today for a confidential case review. Call us at 888-437-7747. Let our seasoned legal authority guide you through this challenging time with confidence and strategic precision. We are here to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for you.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not a substitute for consulting with a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction. Laws are subject to change and vary by jurisdiction. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. does not guarantee the outcome of any legal matter.