Even minor traffic accidents can be scary experiences, especially when people’s cars are damaged and tempers flare. However, it is vital that everyone remains calm and you follow the proper protocols after an accident. Otherwise, you are putting your permanent criminal record at risk, in addition to other serious repercussions, like fines, license suspensions, and time in jail.

Such was the case for a female real estate agent after her foot slipped off the brake and she tapped the bumper of the car in front of her. Apparently, the driver of the other car became enraged, and in a panic, the female driver fled the scene. Law enforcement eventually caught up with her and charged this mother of two with several offenses, including leaving the scene of the accident involving property damage, following too closely, and failure to offer information or render aid. Now, because of an impulsive decision, made in a moment of weakness, the woman was facing serious criminal penalties and didn’t know where to turn. Desperate for help, she eventually came to Fienman Defense for a consultation.

Attorney Michael Fienman met with his client and after reviewing her record, it was clear that unfortunately, this client was not eligible for the ARD program for first-time offenders due to some previous marks on her record from over 20 years ago. Undeterred, attorney Fienman did not want to see this momentary lapse in judgment negatively affect her real-estate license, her family, or undo the progress she made in life. This led to extensive negotiations with the Chief of the Cheltenham Police Department and the officer that responded to the scene.

In the end, and due in large part to Fienman’s aggressive representation, all the parties involved agreed to dismiss the charges and the woman was excused from further concern without any adverse repercussions.

The outcome of an individual case depends on a variety of factors unique to that case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any similar or future case.

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