An attorney can offer valuable assistance in dealing with your traffic ticket in several ways:
- Ticket dismissal: Attorneys can analyze your case and explore potential flaws in the officer's report, witness statements, or even procedural errors that could lead to a dismissal.
- Reduced charges: Negotiating with the prosecutor to achieve a lesser charge with fewer points and fines is a possibility.
- Trial representation: If your case goes to court, an attorney can represent you effectively, presenting your defense and arguing for the best possible outcome.
The number of points you get for exceeding the speed limit in New Jersey depends on how much you exceeded the limit:
- 1-14 mph over: 2 points
- 15-29 mph over: 4 points
- 30 mph or more over: 5 points
It's important to remember that these are just the point values for speeding alone. Other violations, like reckless driving, can also add points to your license. Additionally, accumulating 6 or more points within a three-year period incurs surcharges on top of any fines you receive.
A traffic ticket for passing in a no-passing lane can be quite serious, leading to hefty fines, points on your license, and even potential suspension. Ed Appel has been a traffic attorney since 1988 and can be invaluable in helping you navigate this situation and explore your options for minimizing the consequences. Here's how Ed Appel can help:
• Misinterpretation of the situation: There could be situations where the officer may have misinterpreted the road markings or your actions. An attorney can present evidence challenging their interpretation and supporting your perspective.
• Exigent circumstances: If you had a compelling reason to pass, like avoiding an immediate hazard or assisting someone in need, your attorney can help argue that your actions fall under emergency exceptions.
• Procedural issues: Did the officer follow proper protocol during the stop and citation process? Any deviations from standard procedures could be used to challenge the ticket's validity.
Reduced charges: Negotiating with the prosecutor for a lesser charge with fewer points and fines is a possibility. Your attorney's understanding of the law and negotiation skills can significantly impact the outcome.
• Courtroom representation: If your case goes to trial, having an attorney present your defense effectively and argue your case in court is crucial. Their experience and ability to handle courtroom proceedings can make a difference.
• Minimizing points and fines: Points on your license can lead to increased insurance premiums and potential suspension. An attorney can fight to minimize or even eliminate points and negotiate reduced fines.
Receiving a ticket for improper passing of a school bus is a serious offense with potentially significant consequences. Ed Appel can be incredibly helpful in navigating this situation and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome with his many years in traffic violation law. Here's how Ed Appel can help:
Identifying errors: Procedural errors during the stop or citation process, misinterpretations of the situation by the officer, or potential issues with witness statements can be grounds for challenging the ticket. An attorney can meticulously review the details to identify any such vulnerabilities.
False accusations: Did you truly pass the bus illegally? Attorney Ed Appel can help gather evidence and witness statements to refute the officer's claims and support your version of events.
Medical emergencies: If you had a genuine medical emergency requiring immediate action, it may constitute an exception to the law. An attorney can guide you in presenting compelling evidence to support your claim.
Misinterpretation of bus signals: Sometimes, confusion about flashing lights or unclear bus signals can lead to unintentional violations. An attorney can help investigate these nuances and build a defense accordingly.
Reduced charges: Negotiating with the prosecutor for a lesser charge with fewer points and fines is a possibility. Your attorney's negotiation skills and understanding of the law can be crucial in achieving this outcome.
Unlike most traffic violations that pinpoint specific infractions, NJ 39:4-97 focuses on driver behavior. It states that operating a vehicle "carelessly, or without due caution and circumspection, in a manner so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property," is illegal. This means even actions that don't directly violate a specific traffic code can land you in hot water if deemed unsafe by an officer.
If you're cited for violating a traffic law, don't panic. Remember, you have the right to fight the charges. Here are some steps you can take:
• Consult an attorney: Ed Appel is an experienced traffic lawyer and can assess your case, determine potential defenses, and guide you through the legal process.
• Gather evidence: Did you have witnesses? Were there any specific road conditions that contributed? Any documentation you can provide can strengthen your case.
• Understand your options: Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may advise contesting the ticket in court, negotiating with the prosecutor, or exploring alternative resolutions.
