By Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq., Criminal Defense Attorney | DUI & Traffic Violations – Calvert County, Maryland
Teen Traffic Ticket Lawyer Dunkirk, MD | First Offense Driver Defense
Getting that first driver’s license is a huge moment for any teenager.
But it also comes with a strict set of rules that many young drivers (and their parents) aren’t fully aware of.
In Dunkirk, I see a lot of teens pulled over on Route 4 or nearby roads—sometimes for speeding, sometimes for driving past curfew, or for having passengers they weren’t supposed to.
If your teenager has been ticketed or charged with a driving violation, don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either.
Even a first offense can have long-term consequences if it’s not handled the right way.
What Are the Common Teen Driver Violations?
Maryland has what’s called a Graduated Licensing System for new drivers under age 18.
That means teens are expected to follow extra rules beyond what adult drivers face.
The most common traffic violations I see in Dunkirk include:
- Speeding (even 10 mph over the limit can trigger points)
- Driving with passengers under 18 during restricted periods
- Driving without supervision at night (typically 12 a.m. to 5 a.m.)
- Using a phone or device while driving (even hands-free is off-limits for minors)
- Failing to wear a seatbelt or ensure passengers are buckled up
Officers are quick to ticket young drivers—especially on heavily monitored roads like MD-4 near Dunkirk Town Center.
Why These Tickets Matter More Than You Think
For adult drivers, a minor ticket may be just a minor inconvenience. But for teens, that same violation can:
- Delay their full license eligibility
- Add points to their record
- Trigger mandatory driver improvement classes
- Lead to license suspension on a second offense
- Raise insurance premiums significantly
A first-time offense is also your teen’s first experience with the legal system.
It sets the tone for how they view responsibility—and it’s your chance to protect their record from the start.
How I Help Families Handle These Charges
When a parent calls me about their teen’s first traffic violation, I focus on two things:
- Keeping the ticket off their record
- Making sure they understand what happened—and how to avoid it again
I work to:
- Challenge the stop or citation if it was based on weak or unclear evidence
- Negotiate for a reduction to a non-point or non-moving violation
- Seek probation before judgment (PBJ) to avoid points altogether
- Appear in court with you and your teen to guide the process
- Educate—not just defend—so your teen learns and moves forward
Why Families in Dunkirk Trust Me
- I’ve worked with dozens of teen drivers and their parents across Calvert County
- I know the local traffic patterns, patrol habits, and court systems
- I explain the process in plain English for both teens and adults
- I help protect your child’s future, not just fight the ticket
“A teen’s first ticket doesn’t have to define them—but how you handle it can make all the difference.”
— Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq.
Let’s Keep This Off Your Teen’s Record
If your child received a traffic citation in Dunkirk, don’t wait to see what happens.
Please call me before paying the ticket or attending court.
Together, we’ll work to protect their license, their record, and their future.
👉 Book your consultation online now or call us directly at 301-627-5844.
