Who Robert Navar is and what his firm does
Robert Navar is a traffic defense attorney based in El Paso, Texas, who represents people charged with traffic violations. His firm handles cases involving speeding tickets, reckless driving charges, driving with a suspended license, and other moving violations in El Paso municipal court and surrounding areas. Like other traffic defense firms, Navar's office works to reduce charges, negotiate with prosecutors, or contest tickets in court on behalf of clients.
Traffic defense attorneys in Texas operate within state law and local court rules. They do not work for the court or the city — they represent the person who received the ticket. Understanding what a traffic defense attorney does, and what you should expect from any firm you contact, helps you make an informed decision about whether to hire representation.
Key Takeaways
- Traffic defense attorneys represent people charged with violations and work within the court system to challenge tickets or negotiate outcomes.
- You have the right to represent yourself in traffic court, but an attorney can explain your options and potential consequences before you decide.
- Traffic convictions in Texas can affect your driving record, insurance rates, and employment, so understanding the stakes matters before court.
- Any firm you contact should explain their fees upfront, what they will do with your case, and what results are realistic given the facts.
How traffic defense works in El Paso courts
When you receive a traffic ticket in El Paso, you have several paths forward. You can pay the fine and accept the conviction, contest the ticket in court yourself, or hire an attorney to represent you. If you choose to go to court, the prosecutor must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt — the same standard used in criminal cases, though traffic violations are typically classified as misdemeanors or infractions depending on the offense.
A traffic defense attorney's job is to review the ticket, the officer's report, and the circumstances of the stop, then advise you on whether fighting the charge makes sense. They may negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a lesser violation, request that the case be dismissed if there are problems with how the stop was conducted, or prepare to present a defense at trial. The outcome depends on the specific facts, the evidence available, and what the prosecutor is willing to negotiate.
What to ask any traffic defense firm before hiring
Before you contact any traffic defense attorney, know what questions to ask. Request a clear explanation of their fees — whether they charge a flat rate, hourly rate, or payment plan. Ask what services that fee covers: will they appear in court for you, negotiate with the prosecutor, or both? Ask how long they have been practicing traffic defense in El Paso specifically, since local court procedures and relationships with prosecutors matter.
Ask what they will do with your case in the first week, and what timeline you should expect. Ask whether they have handled cases similar to yours and what outcomes were realistic. A reputable firm will tell you honestly if your case is weak, not promise results they cannot may provide. They should also explain what happens to your driving record and insurance if you are convicted, so you understand the stakes before deciding whether to fight the ticket.
Understanding traffic conviction consequences in Texas
A traffic conviction in Texas stays on your driving record for three years from the date of conviction. During that time, it can raise your insurance premiums — sometimes significantly, depending on the violation and your insurer. Multiple violations within a short period can lead to license suspension or revocation. Some employers, particularly those in transportation, security, or positions requiring a commercial license, may review your driving record as part of hiring or retention decisions.
Certain violations carry mandatory consequences. Driving with a suspended license, for example, is a criminal misdemeanor in Texas and can result in jail time, fines, and a longer license suspension. Reckless driving is also a misdemeanor. Understanding whether your specific charge falls into this category helps you weigh whether contesting it is worth the time and cost. An attorney can explain these consequences clearly before you go to court.
Your right to represent yourself in traffic court
You have the right to represent yourself in traffic court without hiring an attorney. Many people do this successfully, particularly for straightforward cases like a speeding ticket where the facts are not in dispute. If you choose to represent yourself, you will need to appear in court on the date listed on your ticket, present your side of the case, and cross-examine the officer if they testify.
Representing yourself means you are responsible for knowing the rules of evidence, the procedures the court follows, and how to present your case persuasively. If you are unfamiliar with the court system or the specific charge against you, this can be challenging. An attorney's role is to handle these procedural and strategic questions so you do not have to navigate them alone.
How to find and evaluate traffic defense options in El Paso
If you decide to hire representation, you can search for traffic defense attorneys in El Paso through the State Bar of Texas lawyer referral service, which lists licensed attorneys by practice area and location. You can also ask for recommendations from people you know who have used a traffic attorney, or contact the El Paso Bar Association for referrals. When you call a firm, ask whether they offer a free initial consultation so you can discuss your case before committing to hire them.
During a consultation, pay attention to whether the attorney listens to your account of what happened, asks clarifying questions, and explains the law in language you understand. Be wary of any firm that guarantees a specific outcome or promises to "make the ticket disappear" — no attorney can may provide results. A trustworthy firm will be honest about the strengths and weaknesses of your case and what you might realistically expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to hire an attorney for a traffic ticket?
No. You have the right to represent yourself in traffic court. Many people do this for minor violations. However, if the charge is serious, carries potential jail time, or you are unsure about court procedures, an attorney can explain your options and represent you in court.
How much does a traffic defense attorney typically cost?
Costs vary by attorney and the complexity of the case. Some charge a flat fee for a straightforward ticket defense, while others charge hourly rates or offer payment plans. Always ask for a fee agreement in writing before hiring. Compare costs among several firms, but also consider experience and track record, not just price.
Can a traffic conviction affect my job?
It depends on your job. Employers in transportation, delivery, security, and positions requiring a commercial driver's license often review driving records. Some employers may not care about a single minor violation, while others have strict policies. If your job depends on a clean driving record, fighting the ticket may be worth the cost.
What happens if I just pay the ticket?
Paying the ticket is an admission of guilt and results in a conviction on your driving record. The conviction stays for three years and can raise your insurance rates. You avoid court, but you accept the long-term consequences. Weigh this against the cost and time of fighting the ticket before deciding.
How long does a traffic case usually take?
A straightforward case may be resolved in one court appearance, while others take several weeks or months if negotiations are ongoing or if the case goes to trial. Ask your attorney for a realistic timeline based on the specific charge and current court schedules in El Paso.