You made a split second decision behind the wheel and you immediately see the sirens in your rear view mirror. The resulting traffic ticket is inevitable. However, paying for it and having it go on your record may be avoidable with the help of an experienced New Jersey traffic ticket attorney.
Although hiring an attorney is the best choice to make for a solid defense, you might have some questions that may need quick answers. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Do I need a lawyer for a traffic ticket in NJ?
Any traffic ticket can negatively impact your driving record and your insurance premium. However, just because you received a ticket, it doesn’t mean you can’t fight it. Although you don’t need to hire an attorney to fight your traffic ticket, a competent attorney will significantly increase your chances of beating the ticket and avoiding the consequences.
How long do traffic tickets stay on your New Jersey record?
New Jersey does not disclose how long tickets stay on your record, although the state does make it clear that points remain on your license indefinitely. Traffic tickets on your New Jersey driving record can affect your driver’s license points, driving privileges, and car insurance rates. The state will suspend your driver’s license if you receive 12 points in a year.
Can I receive points for an out-of-state traffic ticket in NJ?
Yes. If you receive a traffic violation while driving in another state, New Jersey will add 2 points to your driving record regardless of what type of offense you violated in the other state.
Can I get points deducted from my NJ driving record?
Yes. You can do several different things to earn point reductions on your driving record:
- The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) will automatically deduct 3 points if you do not commit a traffic violation for 12 consecutive months.
- The MVC will subtract 3 points if you complete a MVC Driver Improvement Program. You can use this program every 2 years.
- You can have 2 points from your record by completing a Defensive Driving Program.
- If you complete a Probationary Driver Program, 3 points will be deducted from your driving record.
How do I contest my NJ traffic ticket?
The most important thing you should do if you have received a New Jersey traffic ticket and want to contest it is to call an experienced New Jersey traffic ticket attorney.
Call a New Jersey Ticket Attorney
If you or someone you know has been issued any type of traffic violation in New Jersey, including careless driving, an experienced attorney can help. Call Beninato & Matrafajlo Attorneys at Law, LLC at 908-355-7100 to schedule a free, complimentary consultation with our legal team today.