Besides the obvious monetary fines, traffic tickets in New Jersey can have a ripple effect that can adversely affect your driving record, contribute to future fines and license suspension, and increase your insurance premiums for years into the future. Taking the time to fight a traffic ticket with an experienced lawyer is an investment that can benefit you for years into the future.
The New Jersey Point System
New Jersey, like many other states, uses a points system to track an individual’s driving record. Each traffic violation comes with a different number of points that are added to your driving record. Most points stay on your record for one to three years. If you receive 6 points in a 3-year period you must pay a surcharge. If you amass 12 points or more, you will face suspension of your license.
Given the low thresholds for assessment of surcharges and license suspension, it is usually in a driver’s best interests to fight a traffic ticket with the assistance of an experienced lawyer. Going at it alone can be an expensive proposition as a court may give you what appears to be a favorable no-point plea deal, but what is actually a financial boon to the municipality that can hurt you in connection with a future traffic ticket.
Arguing Your Traffic Ticket
An experienced Bergen County Traffic Lawyer can level the playing field and put you on equal footing in the courtroom. With a lawyer, you will be placing yourself in a position to receive a better plea deal than you might achieve on your own. A traffic lawyer knows the nuances of the New Jersey Traffic Code and can effectively negotiate on your behalf with the prosecution. With a lawyer, your case will also receive priority and will be heard before all cases involving people without lawyers, greatly minimizing your inconvenience on the court date.
Arguing a ticket can help keep your insurance premiums from skyrocketing. The NJ motor vehicle commission sends reports of your driving record history to your insurance company on request. When a large number of violations or a high number of points appear on your record, it can end up costing you hundreds of dollars per year in increased insurance premiums. Fighting your traffic ticket can save you from some of these costs.
An experienced Bergen County traffic ticket lawyer from the Reinartz Law Firm can help you fight your traffic tickets to minimize damage to your license and your wallet. Call today for a free consultation to discuss your options.