Speeding Ticket Attorney in Bakersfield, CA
Protect Your Record & Peace of Mind With Board-Certified Local Defense
If you've received a speeding ticket in Bakersfield or elsewhere in Kern County, the situation can quickly become overwhelming. You're likely concerned about points on your license, higher insurance costs, or how this citation might impact your work or family life. At Humphrey & Thompson, our board-certified criminal law attorneys apply decades of Bakersfield court experience to help resolve traffic tickets with a focus on your long-term well-being.
We understand the stress an unexpected speeding ticket can create, especially if you have a busy schedule. That's why we offer personal service, clear communication, and proven strategies to protect both your driving record and your finances. With more than 5,000 criminal cases—including many traffic offenses—handled in Kern County courts, our team is equipped to guide you every step of the way.
As State Bar Certified Criminal Law Specialists, we hold credentials that few Bakersfield attorneys possess. When you want straight answers and strong local advocacy, our team is ready to help you move forward.
Contact us today to let us help you avoid paying that speeding ticket.
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What To Expect After Arrest -
The Attorneys You Need On Your Side
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Thousands of Successful Cases
California Speeding Laws
California’s speeding laws are primarily found under the California Vehicle Code (CVC) and fall into three major categories:
Basic Speed Law (CVC 22350)
California’s basic speed law states that drivers must maintain a safe speed depending on:
- Road conditions
- Weather
- Traffic
- Visibility
- The presence of hazards
Even if you were driving under the posted limit, you can still receive a speeding ticket if the officer believes your speed was unsafe for the conditions.
Absolute Speed Limits (CVC 22352)
Absolute speed limits include:
- 25 mph in residential or school zones
- 55 mph on two-lane undivided highways
- 65–70 mph on most freeways
If you exceed these limits, the citation is based solely on your measured speed.
Presumed Speed Limits
These apply in areas where the posted speed limit is tied to typical driving conditions. If ticketed, you may defend yourself by showing you were driving safely for the conditions.
Radar and Laser Enforcement
In Bakersfield, CHP and local law enforcement frequently use radar and laser devices to catch speeders. However, equipment calibration, officer training, and environmental factors all influence whether the reading is legally valid. A skilled attorney can challenge improper speed measurement methods.
Penalties for Speeding Tickets
The penalties for a speeding ticket in California depend on how fast you were allegedly driving and whether there were aggravating circumstances.
Base Fines
- 1–15 mph over limit: $35 base fine
- 16–25 mph over limit: $70 base fine
- 26 mph or more over limit: $100+ base fine
However, after mandatory court fees and assessments, the total cost is often $230–$500+ per ticket.
DMV Points on Your License
Speeding violations typically add 1 point to your driving record.
If you were speeding over 100 mph, the penalty increases to 2 points, along with much higher fines.
Accumulating too many points can trigger a Negligent Operator Suspension, which may lead to license suspension.
Insurance Rate Increases
A single speeding ticket can increase your insurance premiums for three years or more.
Many drivers hire a lawyer specifically to prevent this.
Speeding Over 100 MPH (CVC 22348(b))
California imposes harsh penalties for high-speed violations, including:
- Fines up to $2,500
- Two points on your record
- Possible license suspension
- Mandatory court appearance
If you are charged with driving over 100 mph, hiring an attorney is strongly recommended.
The Legal Process of a Speeding Ticket
Many drivers simply pay the fine, but doing so means admitting guilt. Instead, you have the legal right to contest your citation.
1. Review of the Citation
We examine the citation for errors, inconsistencies, or lack of evidence. Mistakes in the officer’s notes or procedure can be grounds for dismissal.
2. Evidence Evaluation
This includes reviewing:
- Radar or laser calibration records
- Officer training documentation
- Dashcam or bodycam footage
- Witness statements
- Road or weather conditions
3. Court Representation
Our Bakersfield speeding ticket lawyer can appear in court on your behalf, saving you time and preventing lost wages. Many clients never need to step inside a courtroom.
4. Negotiation or Defense
We may pursue:
- Citation dismissal
- Reduction of fines
- Reduction to a non-moving violation
- Eligibility for traffic school
- Removal or reduction of DMV points
Our goal is to protect your license, your record, and your insurance rates.
5. Traffic School Options
In many cases, traffic school can mask the point so insurance companies won’t see it.
Our team can help you secure eligibility even in borderline situations.
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Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Misdemeanor Sex Crime with Mandatory Sex Registration
Settled for no registration and time served after 5 days of trial ending in a mistrial. -
Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Felony Sex Crime
Client was charged with a felony sex crime . His charges were reduced to a misdeanor. He received no sex offender registration and community service instead of jail. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Abuse
Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Felony Sex Case
Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely. -
Case Dismissal
Rape
Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Battery
Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed. -
Jury Trial Acquittals
Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
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Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Speeding Ticket FAQs
Can a lawyer really get a speeding ticket dismissed?
Yes. Depending on the evidence and circumstances, your attorney may challenge the officer’s method of determining your speed or argue procedural errors.
Will a speeding ticket affect my insurance?
If the ticket is not dismissed or masked through traffic school, insurance premiums can increase for several years.
Do I have to appear in court?
In most cases, your attorney can appear for you, saving you time and stress.
Is hiring a lawyer worth it for a minor speeding ticket?
Often, yes—especially if you want to avoid insurance increases, points, or the risk of license suspension.
Can I fight a ticket if I’m an out-of-state driver?
Absolutely. We can appear in court for you and help prevent the violation from affecting your home-state driving record.
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True Trial Attorneys
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Responsive & Prompt Communication
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Impressive Track Record in State, & Federal Courts
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Client-Service Focused
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Certified Criminal Law Specialists
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- Cesar M.
They were very straightforward about the possible outcomes and always seemed to be one step ahead in planning our defense strategy. The paralegal staff was also courteous and prompt in their responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for their services. the Martinez Lugo family we loved them we really recommended thanks so much :)
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- Former Client
Jared and his staff, not exaggerating were on top of it all. If I called to talk to the girls in the front they handled everything right away, Jared reputation for being THE BEST matched him perfect. We had issues with the anger management classes and the staff really cared and helped us. Jared helped my son who was facing some serious charges but he genuinely cared about the whole truth and we got blessed tremendously! we are forever grateful and truly couldnt have imagined the outcome had we NOT hired him! Loved them thank you so much sincerely!
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- Joe S.
His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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- Rena B.
IF you are caught in a bad situation in life and are looking for a Lawyer and investigator to fight, do their job well in fighting to prove your innocence in your case, you need Kyle and Victor on your side!!!
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- Jenna B.
My husband hired Jared Thompson to defend him against bogus charges. Their price was affordable and well worth the work they put in. Even though the DA's office was not helpful and kept delaying the case over and over, Mr. Thompson and his team never gave up. It was finally dismissed and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome.
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- Saijel P.
Kyle and his team are absolutely amazing! With my whole case they kept it completely stress free. Kyle will explain everything in a way you could actually understand. I highly recommend him. He's honest, fair and compassionate and fantastic to work with.
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- Aracele S.
I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!
Why Drivers in Bakersfield Trust Our Team
Choosing the right speeding ticket attorney matters. In Bakersfield, our board-certified lawyers bring exceptional insight and courtroom knowledge earned over decades of focused criminal law practice. Mr. Humphrey and Mr. Thompson, our lead attorneys, have represented clients in Kern County’s state and federal courts for many years. Our credentials are verified by the State Bar of California, and our results span more than 5,000 cases.
You work directly with our attorneys throughout your traffic matter, not through layers of staff. We prioritize prompt responses, whether you call after hours or need a status update regarding your case in Kern County Superior Court. Our goal is to ensure you are never lost in the process and always have a trusted legal team advocating for your interests.
Practicing here in Bakersfield means we understand California traffic laws in detail and the unique ways local law enforcement and judges handle speeding tickets. This combination of credentials, experience, and direct access is why so many Bakersfield drivers turn to our team.
To speak with a speeding ticket attorney in Bakersfield, call today.
