Traffic Ticket Defense in Tacoma & Western Washington
Tacoma Traffic Ticket Attorneys
Nobody likes getting a traffic ticket. Getting cited can feel minor, but the impact on your license, insurance, and daily life is often bigger than you expect. A single ticket can raise your insurance premiums, go on your driving record, and in some cases even threaten your ability to keep your license. Whether you received your ticket in Tacoma, Olympia, Bremerton, or Seattle, you have options—and we can help.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore or Simply Pay a Ticket
In Washington, you have 30 days to respond to your traffic citation. Ignoring it can trigger a license suspension. Simply paying it may increase your insurance rates for years. The smarter move is to understand your rights and defenses before taking action.
Our attorneys appear in court on behalf of clients across Pierce, King, Thurston, and Kitsap Counties, often saving them the hassle of attending hearings themselves.
Start Your Defense Today: Call now for a free consultation and protect your record before it’s too late.
Common Traffic Violations We Defend
Many people think of tickets as speeding-related only, but Washington drivers can be cited for a wide range of reasons, including:
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Traveling the speed limit but too fast for weather or road conditions
- Unsafe lane changes or following too closely
- Expired tabs or registration
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Cell phone or distracted driving
- Open container violations
- Misuse of HOV or passing lanes
- Driving in left lanes without passing
Each violation carries its own risks. Even if it feels easier to pay the fine, doing so often means admitting guilt and accepting long-term consequences on your record.
How Our Attorneys Help
The Law Offices of Barbara A. Bowden has defended 10,000+ tickets across Western Washington. Here’s how we support you:
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Review your citation and driving history
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Identify technical or procedural defenses
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File hearings and handle court appearances for you
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Seek dismissal or negotiate reduced charges
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Protect your license, insurance rates, and livelihood
Whether this is your first ticket or your third, our office is here to help you decide the best path forward—whether that means fighting the ticket or advising you on alternatives. Age and driving history can both play a role in outcomes, so personalized advice matters.
For some drivers, the stakes are especially high:
Frequently Asked Questions About Traffic Tickets
Even after learning the basics, many drivers still have questions about what happens next. These FAQs cover the issues we hear most often from people facing traffic tickets in Tacoma and across Western Washington.
What happens if I ignore my traffic ticket in Washington?
If you do not respond within 30 days, the Department of Licensing can suspend your driver’s license and you may face additional fines and penalties.
Can a lawyer really get my traffic ticket dismissed?
While no attorney can guarantee dismissal, we regularly identify procedural errors, negotiate reductions, or secure alternatives that keep tickets off your record.
Do I have to appear in court for my traffic ticket?
In most cases, our attorneys can appear on your behalf so you do not have to take time off work or attend a hearing in person.
How will a traffic ticket affect my insurance rates?
Even one moving violation can raise your premiums for years. Fighting your ticket helps protect both your license and your insurance costs.
Ready to Get Help? Take The Next Step
Don’t let a ticket put your license or record at risk. The sooner you act, the more options you have. Call our Lakewood office today or use the Start Your Defense Today form below to connect with our team.
From our office conveniently located in Lakewood, we regularly represent drivers in Tacoma Municipal Court, Pierce County District Court, and courts throughout Western Washington. Our deep familiarity with local procedures and courts helps us fight effectively for our clients.