Should I rely on the information I receive from the police officer?
The officer may provide incorrect information. For example, an officer may tell you that a summons does not carry points when that is not the case. The officer is not obligated to provide you with legal advice.
Does it make sense to retain an attorney for a moving violation in New Jersey?
Yes. Most moving violations result in points, fines and increased insurance premiums. Some result in license suspensions and jail terms.
Prosecutors generally offer to reduce the severity of moving violations if they think that the motorist will be willing to give up his right to have a trial. In general, an experienced attorney will be able to negotiate a more favorable outcome than one who is not represented. When motorists attempt to negotiate with the prosecutor without the benefit of an attorney, it is likely that only a minimal reduction will be offered. This is because the prosecutor knows that the motorist probably will not go to trial by himself and if he did, he would likely be found guilty.
Will a summons received while driving my personal vehicle affect my Commercial Driver's License?
Absolutely!
Should I always pay a summons which doesn't carry points?
No. For example, paying no point summonses such as a cell phone ticket may still cause insurance premiums to increase. In addition, too many zero point tickets may prevent you from renting a vehicle.
What effect do Motor Vehicle points have on my driving privileges and insurance premiums?
Motor Vehicle points are placed on someone's driving record when they plead or are found guilty of a moving violation. If 12 or more points are accumulated, your privilege to drive is usually suspended. Insurance companies regularly check the driving record's of those that it insures. As more points are accrued premiums tend to increase. In order to prevent unnecessary increases in your insurance premiums it is advised that you never pay or plead guilty to any moving violation which carries points.
Will points issued by New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission transfer to my out of state license?
New Jersey reports moving violation records to most jurisdictions throughout the United States.
How long to points remain on my New Jersey License?
Three points will be automatically removed from your driving record every year. However, in order for the three points to be removed, no new points may have been placed on your driving record during the course of the year.
Are mistakes on my summons grounds for dismissal
Although some mistakes may play a part in obtaining a dismissal, the Judge's focus is usually centered on the infraction that you are charged with. If the police officer fails to appear, will my case be dismissed?- When the officer's absence is due to a legitimate reason such as illness, death in his family or a conflicting court appearance, the court will generally reschedule the case.
If my license has been suspended due to accumulating too many what can be done so that I can drive again?
In most cases, we can negotiate with the Department of Motor Vehicles to either reduce the length of your suspension or reinstate your driving privileges. This process is complicated and may necessitate a hearing in Trenton. Please contact us so that we can discuss your case specifically.
