Many people enter a courtroom for the first time after being charged with a traffic violation. Charges vary widely in severity, with some resulting in fines, driver's license suspensions, orders to complete community service, and even jail time. The majority of traffic cases in Burlington County are handled in its 38 Municipal Court venues. Drivers with an upcoming court appearance should promptly consult with legal counsel.
|
Burlington County 07/2018 – 06/2019 |
Cases Added |
|
DWI |
1,931 |
|
Traffic |
191,137 |
|
Parking |
9,822 |
Guilty Plea and Waiver
Some less serious traffic offenses may be resolved without entering a courtroom. If you were issued a traffic ticket, this can be confirmed by whether the “court appearance required” box is checked. If this box is not checked, the defendant can complete the Appearance, Plea, and Waiver section and pay the amount indicated to resolve the matter.
Penalty Points for Violations
The Division of Motor Vehicles governs how “penalty points” are imposed for traffic offenses. A driver that accumulates 12 points in two years will have their driving privileges suspended for a minimum of 30 days. Violations including failing to observe traffic signals or to yield at an intersection may result in two points. Speeding violations may result in two to five points based on the excessiveness of the infraction.
Serious Traffic Offenses and Penalties
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI): Depending on the circumstances, first-time offenders will be fined between $250 and $500 and must attend an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) program. The offender may face a maximum of 30 days in jail and must have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicle.
- Reckless driving: A fine of $50 to $200, five penalty points, and up to 60 days in jail may be imposed.
- Fleeing an accident scene (hit-and-run)
- Without injuries: A fine of $200 to $400, a six-month license suspension, and up to 30 days in jail may be imposed.
- With injuries: A fine of $2,500 to $5,000, a one-year license suspension, and up to 180 days in jail may be imposed.
Failing to Appear for Court or Pay Fines
Defendants that fail to appear in court for a traffic violation without reasonable cause may be creating additional legal problems. The court may issue a warrant for your arrest and suspend your driving privileges. This also applies to those who do not pay fines that are imposed. Statewide, there are roughly 2.5 million unresolved municipal bench warrants for these two concerns.
Choosing a Defense Lawyer for Traffic Offenses
The traffic laws in New Jersey continue to change and the courts that are responsible for handling these cases are frequently overwhelmed. Overworked court administrators may move hastily in efforts to process these cases without regard for the individual rights of each defendant. An attorney that is well-versed in this area of practice will pursue a positive outcome and ensure you are afforded your right to due process.
New Jersey Attorney for Motor Vehicle Violations
Have you been accused of a traffic violation and have an upcoming appearance in court? With the potential penalties that the court may impose it is important to have support from a seasoned defense lawyer. Contact the Lento Law Firm today at (888) 535-3686 for assistance.
