Pierce County Traffic Ticket Attorney
Trusted Defense for Traffic Infractions & Criminal Charges in Pierce County
Since 1997, The Law Offices of Barbara A. Bowden has defended thousands of drivers across Pierce County. Whether you’re facing a civil infraction or a criminal traffic charge, our attorneys know how to navigate local courts, challenge tickets, and protect your driving record.
Over 30 Years of Experience in Pierce County Traffic Court
Full-Spectrum Defense: From Speeding to Suspended Licenses and DUIs
Available 24/7 for Free Case Evaluations
Your Options After a Traffic Ticket in Pierce County
When you receive a traffic ticket, Washington law gives you three basic responses:
Deferred Disposition: A Second Chance
In some situations, you may be eligible for a deferred disposition—essentially asking the court to dismiss the charge if you maintain a clean record for a specified period. If you qualify and comply, the ticket is dismissed and doesn’t appear on your record. Not all tickets qualify:
Deferred Disposition: A Second Chance
In some situations, you may be eligible for a deferred disposition—essentially asking the court to dismiss the charge if you maintain a clean record for a specified period. If you qualify and comply, the ticket is dismissed and doesn’t appear on your record. Not all tickets qualify:
Not Allowed in School Zones or Work Zones
Not Available If You’ve Used a Deferral in the Past 7 Years
Must Comply With Court Conditions, Including No Further Violations During the Deferral Period
Contesting a Ticket in Pierce County
When you choose to contest a traffic citation:
-
You (or your attorney) request a contested hearing within 30 days
-
The court schedules a hearing, often held virtually or in person
-
Most infractions are decided based on the officer’s written statement unless you subpoena the officer to appear
-
Prosecutors typically do not appear unless you are contesting a criminal traffic offense
Negotiate With the Court to Amend the Charge
Identify Technical Errors in the Ticket or Officer’s Report
Present Mitigating Factors or Procedural Defenses
Why Legal Representation Matters
Can you fight a ticket on your own? Yes. Should you? That depends. Judges may be less receptive to arguments from unrepresented individuals, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local procedures.
Hiring a Pierce County traffic attorney:
- Increases your chances of dismissal or reduced charges
- Saves you time—we can appear on your behalf
- Helps avoid license suspension, employment issues, or higher insurance rates
Multiple Tickets? Take Action Now
If you’ve received multiple citations, your risk increases:
- Possible license suspension
- Higher fines and probationary periods
- Reduced eligibility for deferrals
Our attorneys have successfully defended drivers with multiple violations, working to reduce the cumulative impact and keep your license in good standing.
What Sets The Law Offices of Barbara Bowden Firm Apart
- Local Knowledge: Decades practicing in Pierce County courts
- Proven Results: Over 10,000 tickets defended
- Client Trust: More than 170 five-star Google reviews
- Full-Service Traffic Defense: Tickets, DUIs, CDL, DWLS, and more
“Barbara and her office have helped me and my family through the years. They have great communication, are professional, and always win. She’s my first call after any traffic infraction and she has helped family members get worse offense dropped.” — J. Myers
Areas We Serve
We proudly represent clients throughout Pierce County, including:
- Lakewood
- Tacoma
- Puyallup
- University Place
- Spanaway
- Fife
- Gig Harbor