Traffic Fees, for DUI, Reckless, Driving on Suspended Licences

Finally the legislature has decided on the exuberant traffic fees, for dui, reckless, driving on suspended, etc. They decided to repeal them as soon as possible and make refunds to those who have paid them already.

The original law, which went into effect on July 1, 2007, imposes fees of between $750 and $3,000 for serious traffic offenses. It was enacted to help finance a transportation bill approved by the General Assembly as an alternative to raising taxes.

If the bill repealing the civil remedial fines is successful, the state comptroller will have to issue refunds to drivers who have been previously assessed fines. Individuals would have to return to the court where they were convicted and simply fill out a form requesting the judge to clear their name.

The civil remedial fines have been criticized as “unconstitutional" by an Arlington County District Court Judge. Judge Dorothy Clarke ruled in July of 2007 that the fees violated guarantees of equal protection because they only apply to state residents.

Check back for udates on how to receive your refund.