If you received a traffic ticket while driving in New Jersey, you have two options: You can plead guilty, pay the ticket, and accept the fines and points that come with it, or you can plead not guilty and fight the ticket in court.
There are deadlines to act in New Jersey. Trying to avoid or prolong these deadlines will not go well for you. Let us take a closer look at the law in New Jersey as it related to traffic tickets and deadlines.
How to Pay Traffic Tickets in New Jersey?
The Garden State makes it convenient to pay traffic tickets. In most cases, you can pay by mail, by phone, online, or in person. Remember that paying a traffic ticket is essentially an admission of guilt.
By doing so, you waive your right to challenge the ticket in court. Depending on your driving record, a ticket can increase your insurance rates and even result in a suspended driver’s license.
What Happens If I Miss the Deadline?
Traffic fines may vary slightly throughout the state depending upon where the violation occurred. Check your ticket for the exact amount, penalties, and deadlines for your violation. If you do not pay on time, you risk additional fines and penalties.
I Want to Fight My Traffic Ticket. What Is My First Step?
To contest the violation, or plead “not guilty” to the violation, contact a traffic ticket attorney for assistance. You will check the appropriate box on the ticket and mail it to the court. Your attorney can assist with step those to follow.
After you officially contest the ticket, your traffic ticket attorney will:
- Request a contested hearing in traffic court
- Request evidence for your defense
- Represent you in court
- Negotiate with the prosecutor to drop pr reduce your charges
An estimated five percent of drivers contest their traffic tickets. The time and expense required to fight a traffic ticket may not make sense, especially for minor and first-time offenses. However, if you have multiple offenses, or your recent offense is particularly serious, you should consult an attorney. They can work to help you avoid a license suspension and other serious penalties.
No one wants to deal with a frustrating traffic ticket, but avoiding it will not make it go away. Whether you choose to pay or fight your ticket, be sure to do so in a timely manner to prevent additional fines and points on your license.
If you have questions about your rights or concerns about how and why you were ticketed, contact an attorney who focuses their practice on helping clients with traffic tickets achieve good results.
New Jersey Traffic Ticket Attorneys With Ellis Law, P.C., Bring More than 20 Years of Experience to Your Case
Before you pay that ticket, schedule a free consultation with our experienced New Jersey traffic ticket attorneys at Ellis Law to learn your options. We explain your options and your rights so you can make informed and confident decisions about your case. We may be able to help you avoid fine and points and other penalties that impact your driving record. Call 732-308-0200 or contact the firm online to schedule your free consult today. Based in Freehold, we assist clients in East Brunswick, Asbury Park, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Marlboro, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, and Ocean County, New Jersey as well as Brooklyn and New York City.
