Thursday, December 4, 2008

39:3-27.35. Special organization member vehicle registration plates.

A person who is a member in good standing of a nonprofit community, alumni or service organization in the State approved by the director pursuant to the provisions of this act may be issued special organization vehicle registration plates to be displayed on motor vehicles owned or leased by that person in place of standard registration plates.
For information on points go to www.njlaws.com.

39:3-27.34. Rules and Regulations.

The director shall promulgate rules and regulations governing issuance and use of these registration plates and providing for their surrender by persons who ceases to be either members of a military reserve unit or residents of this State.
For information on points go to www.njlaws.com.

39:3-27.33. Military reserve plates.

Upon the application of any person who is a resident of this State and who is an active member of a military reserve unit as certified by the appropriate military authority, the director shall issue for the motor vehicle owned by the person special registration plates, of a design to be approved by the director and at a fee to be prescribed by the director, identifying the holder as a member of a military reserve unit in addition to the registration number and other markings of identification otherwise prescribed by law.
For information on points go to www.njlaws.com.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

39:4-56.1. Willfully causing vehicle to become disabled

Willfully causing vehicle to become disabled; abandonment of vehicle upon public highway (a) No person shall operate a vehicle upon the public highways, bridges or tunnels of this State or upon any highways, bridges or tunnels in this State operated by any authority of this State or by any authority created jointly by this State and any other State in such a manner as to willfully cause such vehicle to become disabled, by reason of lack of fuel or otherwise, for the purpose of interfering with or obstructing the passage of other vehicles.

(b) No person shall willfully abandon a vehicle upon the public highways, bridges or tunnels of this State, or upon any highways, bridges or tunnels in this State operated by any authority of this State or by any authority created jointly by this State and any other State for the purpose of interfering with or obstructing the passage of other vehicles.

L.1964, c. 18, s. 1. 39:4-56.2. Violations; penalties Any person who has been convicted of a violation of this act shall be subject, for a first offense, to a fine of not less than $200.00 nor more than $500.00 and shall have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for a period of not less than 1 year nor more than 5 years. For a subsequent violation, he shall be fined not less than $500.00 nor more than $1,000.00 and shall have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for 5 years from the date of his conviction. In fixing the penalty to be imposed, the magistrate shall give consideration to the hazard to the public safety and the public inconvenience created by the conduct of such person.

L.1964, c. 18, s. 2.

39:4-56.3. Suspension of registration The registration of any motor vehicle which is used by any person in violation of section 1 of this act shall be suspended for not less than 90 days nor more than 1 year unless the owner thereof can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Director of Motor Vehicles that said vehicle was used in such a manner without his knowledge and consent. In fixing the period of suspension, the director shall give consideration to the threat to public safety and the public inconvenience caused by the use of said vehicle.

L.1964, c. 18, s. 3.

39:4-56.4. Legislative findings and declarations The Legislature finds and declares that a serious threat to the health, safety and welfare of the people of this State may be presented by any concerted effort, plan or demonstration involving the use and operation of vehicles in such a way as to impede, hamper, stall and interfere with the ordinary progress of vehicular traffic on, in and through the roads, highways and bridges of the State. Because of the special road hazards, with consequent danger to the lives and property of the people of this State, and economic loss which would inevitably flow from any such course of conduct, the Legislature determines that the penalties and sanctions provided by this act shall be applicable under such circumstances.

L.1964, c. 18, s. 4.


Protect your Rights.

Before you pled guilty and face potentially thousands of dollars in fees and surcharges, schedule an in office appointment with our attorneys experienced in handling these matters.

Consequences of a Criminal Guilty Plea

1. You will have to appear in open court and tell the judge what you did that makes you guilty of the particular offense(s)

2. Do you understand that if you plead guilty:

a. You will have a criminal record

b. You may go to Jail or Prison.

c. You will have to pay Fines and Court Costs.

3. If you are on Probation, you will have to submit to random drug and urine testing. If you violate Probation, you often go to jail.

4. In indictable matters, you will be required to provide a DNA sample, which could be used by law enforcement for the investigation of criminal activity, and pay for the cost of testing.

5. You must pay restitution if the court finds there is a victim who has suffered a loss and if the court finds that you are able or will be able in the future to pay restitution.

6. If you are a public office holder or employee, you can be required to forfeit your office or job by virtue of your plea of guilty.

7. If you are not a United States citizen or national, you may be deported by virtue of your plea of guilty.

8. You must wait 5-10 years to expunge a first offense. 2C:52-3

9. You could be put on Probation.

10. In Drug Cases, a mandatory DEDR penalty of $500-$1,000, and lose your driver's license for 6 months - 2years. You must pay a Law Enforcement Officers Training and Equipment Fund penalty of $30.

11. You may be required to do Community Service.

12. You must pay a minimum Violent Crimes Compensation Board assessment of $50 ($100 minimum if you are convicted of a crime of violence) for each count to which you plead guilty.

13. You must pay a $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund assessment for each conviction.

14. If you are being sentenced to probation, you must pay a fee of up to $25 per month for the term of probation.

15. You lose the presumption against incarceration in future cases. 2C:44-1

16. You may lose your right to vote.

The defense of a person charged with a criminal offense is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client accused of a criminal offense.

Jail for Crimes and Disorderly Conduct:

If someone pleads Guilty or is found Guilty of a criminal offense, the following is the statutory Prison/Jail terms.

NJSA 2C: 43-8 (1) In the case of a crime of the first degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between 10 years and 20 years;

(2) In the case of a crime of the second degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between five years and 10 years;

(3) In the case of a crime of the third degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between three years and five years;

(4) In the case of a crime of the fourth degree, for a specific term which shall be fixed by the court and shall not exceed 18 months.

2C:43-3 Fines have been increased recently! 2C:43-3. Fines and Restitutions. A person who has been convicted of an offense may be sentenced to pay a fine, to make restitution, or both, such fine not to exceed:

a. (1) $200,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the first degree;

(2) $150,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the second degree;

b. (1) $15,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the third degree;

(2) $10,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the fourth degree;

c. $1,000.00, when the conviction is of a disorderly persons offense;

d. $500.00, when the conviction is of a petty disorderly persons offense;

If facing any criminal charge, retain an experienced attorney immediately to determine you rights and obligations to the court.

What is an Expert Witness in a DWI case, If you are charged with Driving While under the Influence?

In New Jersey, the Prosecutor is forbidden from accepting a plea bargain in a case. These cases are very difficult and the evidence rules and reported decisions usually permit the state to introduce records and certain reports. Sometimes if a defendant has an expert report and there are problems with the state's case, the prosecutor can amend a DWI to a lower charge if the state cannot prove the case. However, the expert may also confirm there is no scientific basis to keep out the breath test results.

In addition to your attorney cross examining the state's witness, people charged with offenses can hire DWI experts to testify. These experts are often former state police scientists and troopers. They may be able to review the discovery. Sometimes an expert can prepare a written report for a fee of approximately four hundred dollars to set forth additional errors in the state's case. These DWI experts can also testify if there are problems with the state's case. Experts usually charge approximately nine hundred dollars to testify. Some prosecutors will allow the report into evidence. Other prosecutors require direct testimony. You would be responsible for the expert's costs up front.

The following is the NJ Court Rule on discovery:

7:7-7. Discovery and Inspection

(a) Scope. If the government is represented by the municipal or a private prosecutor, discovery shall be available to the parties only as provided by this rule, unless the court otherwise orders. In the absence of a municipal or private prosecutor, discovery shall be available to the parties in the manner directed by the court. All discovery requests by defendant shall be served on the municipal prosecutor, who shall be responsible for making government discovery available to the defendant. If the matter is, however, not being prosecuted by the municipal prosecutor, the municipal prosecutor shall transmit defendant's discovery requests to the prosecutor, or, if there is no prosecutor, the municipal prosecutor shall transmit defendant's court ordered discovery requests to the complaining witness.

(b) Discovery by Defendant. In all cases involving a consequence of magnitude or when ordered by the court, the defendant, on written notice to the municipal prosecutor or private prosecutor, shall be allowed to inspect, copy, and photograph or to be provided with copies of any relevant:

(1) books, tangible objects, papers or documents obtained from or belonging to the defendant;

(2) records of statements or confessions, signed or unsigned, by the defendant or copies thereof, and a summary of any admissions or declarations against penal interest made by the defendant that are known to the prosecution but not recorded;

(3) grand jury proceedings recorded pursuant to R. 3:6-6;

(4) results or reports of physical or mental examinations and of scientific tests or experiments made in connection with the matter or copies of these results or reports, that are within the possession, custody or control of the prosecuting attorney;

(5) reports or records of defendant's prior convictions;

(6) books, originals or copies of papers and documents, or tangible objects, buildings or places that are within the possession, custody or control of the government;

(7) names and addresses of any persons whom the prosecuting attorney knows to have relevant evidence or information, including a designation by the prosecuting attorney as to which of those persons the prosecuting attorney may call as witnesses;

(8) record of statements, signed or unsigned, by the persons described by subsection (7) of this rule or by co-defendants within the possession, custody or control of the prosecuting attorney, and any relevant record of prior conviction of those persons;

(9) police reports that are within the possession, custody or control of the prosecuting attorney;

(10) warrants, that have been completely executed, and any papers accompanying them, as described by R. 7:5-1(a);

(11) the names and addresses of each person whom the prosecuting attorney expects to call to trial as an expert witness, the expert's qualifications, the subject matter on which the expert is expected to testify, a copy of the report, if any, of the expert witness, or if no report was prepared, a statement of the facts and opinions to which the expert is expected to testify and a summary of the grounds for each opinion. If this information is requested and not furnished, the expert witness may, upon application by the defendant, be barred from testifying at trial.

(c) Discovery by the State. In all cases involving a consequence of magnitude or when ordered by the court, the municipal prosecutor or private prosecutor, on written notice to the defendant, shall be allowed to inspect, copy, and photograph or to be provided with copies of any relevant:

(1) results or reports of physical or mental examinations and of scientific tests or experiments made in connection with the matter or copies of these results or reports within the possession, custody or control of the defendant or defense counsel;

(2) any relevant books, originals or copies of papers and other documents or tangible objects, buildings or places within the possession, custody or control of the defendant or defense counsel;

(3) the names and addresses of those persons known to defendant who may be called as witnesses at trial and their written statements, if any, including memoranda reporting or summarizing their oral statements;

(4) written statements, if any, including any memoranda reporting or summarizing the oral statements, made by any witnesses whom the government may call as a witness at trial; and

(5) the names and addresses of each person whom the defense expects to call to trial as an expert witness, the expert's qualifications, the subject matter on which the expert is expected to testify, and a copy of the report, if any, of such expert witness, or if no report is prepared, a statement of the facts and opinions to which the expert is expected to testify and a summary of the grounds for each opinion. If this information is requested and not furnished, the expert may, upon application by the prosecuting attorney, be barred from testifying at trial.

(d) Documents Not Subject to Discovery. This rule does not require discovery of a party's work product, consisting of internal reports, memoranda or documents made by that party or by that party's attorney or agents, in connection with the investigation, prosecution or defense of the matter. Nor does it require discovery by the government of records or statements, signed or unsigned, by defendant made to defendant's attorney or agents.

(e) Protective Orders.

(1) Grounds. Upon motion and for good cause shown, the court may at any time order that the discovery or inspection, copying or photographing sought pursuant to this rule be denied, restricted, or deferred or make such other order as is appropriate. In determining the motion, the court may consider the following: protection of witnesses and others from physical harm, threats of harm, bribes, economic reprisals and other intimidation; maintenance of such secrecy regarding informants as is required for effective investigation of criminal activity; protection of confidential relationships and privileges recognized by law; and any other relevant considerations.

(2) Procedures. The court may permit the showing of good cause to be made, in whole or in part, in the form of a written statement to be inspected by the court alone. If the court enters a protective order, the entire text of the statement shall be sealed and preserved in the court's records, to be made available only to the appellate court in the event of an appeal.

(f) Time and Procedure. A defense request for discovery shall be made contemporaneously with the entry of appearance by the defendant's attorney, who shall submit a copy of the appearance directly to the municipal prosecutor. If the defendant is pro se, any requests for discovery shall be made in writing and submitted by the defendant directly to the municipal prosecutor. The municipal prosecutor shall respond to the discovery request in accordance with paragraph (b) of this rule within 10 days after receiving the request. Unless otherwise ordered by the judge, the defendant shall provide the government with discovery, as provided by paragraph (c) of this rule within 20 days of the prosecuting attorney's compliance with the defendant's discovery request.

(g) Continuing Duty to Disclose; Failure to Comply. If a party who has complied with this rule discovers, either before or during trial, additional material or names of witnesses previously requested or ordered subject to discovery or inspection, that party shall promptly notify the other party or that party's attorney of the existence of these additional materials and witnesses. If at any time during the course of the proceedings it is brought to the attention of the court that a party has failed to comply with this rule or with an order issued pursuant to this rule, the court may order that party to permit the discovery, inspection, copying or photographing of materials not previously disclosed, grant a continuance, prohibit the party from introducing in evidence the material not disclosed or enter such other order as it deems appropriate.

Consequences of a Criminal Guilty Plea

1. You will have to appear in open court and tell the judge what you did that makes you guilty of the particular offense(s)

2. Do you understand that if you plead guilty:

a. You will have a criminal record

b. You may go to Jail or Prison.

c. You will have to pay Fines and Court Costs.

3. If you are on Probation, you will have to submit to random drug and urine testing. If you violate Probation, you often go to jail.

4. In indictable matters, you will be required to provide a DNA sample, which could be used by law enforcement for the investigation of criminal activity, and pay for the cost of testing.

5. You must pay restitution if the court finds there is a victim who has suffered a loss and if the court finds that you are able or will be able in the future to pay restitution.

6. If you are a public office holder or employee, you can be required to forfeit your office or job by virtue of your plea of guilty.

7. If you are not a United States citizen or national, you may be deported by virtue of your plea of guilty.

8. You must wait 5-10 years to expunge a first offense. 2C:52-3

9. You could be put on Probation.

10. In Drug Cases, a mandatory DEDR penalty of $500-$1,000, and lose your driver's license for 6 months - 2years. You must pay a Law Enforcement Officers Training and Equipment Fund penalty of $30.

11. You may be required to do Community Service.

12. You must pay a minimum Violent Crimes Compensation Board assessment of $50 ($100 minimum if you are convicted of a crime of violence) for each count to which you plead guilty.

13. You must pay a $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund assessment for each conviction.

14. If you are being sentenced to probation, you must pay a fee of up to $25 per month for the term of probation.

15. You lose the presumption against incarceration in future cases. 2C:44-1

16. You may lose your right to vote.

The defense of a person charged with a criminal offense is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client accused of a criminal offense.

Jail for Crimes and Disorderly Conduct:

If someone pleads Guilty or is found Guilty of a criminal offense, the following is the statutory Prison/Jail terms.

NJSA 2C: 43-8 (1) In the case of a crime of the first degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between 10 years and 20 years;

(2) In the case of a crime of the second degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between five years and 10 years;

(3) In the case of a crime of the third degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between three years and five years;

(4) In the case of a crime of the fourth degree, for a specific term which shall be fixed by the court and shall not exceed 18 months.

2C:43-3 Fines have been increased recently! 2C:43-3. Fines and Restitutions. A person who has been convicted of an offense may be sentenced to pay a fine, to make restitution, or both, such fine not to exceed:

a. (1) $200,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the first degree;

(2) $150,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the second degree;

b. (1) $15,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the third degree;

(2) $10,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the fourth degree;

c. $1,000.00, when the conviction is of a disorderly persons offense;

d. $500.00, when the conviction is of a petty disorderly persons offense;

If facing any criminal charge, retain an experienced attorney immediately to determine you rights and obligations to the court.

VIOLATIONS OF TOLL ROAD STATUTES AND REGULATIONS

NEW JERSEY TURNPIKE AUTHORITY (NEW JERSEY TURNPIKE)
b) REGULATIONS
N.J.A.C
Payable
Pursuant to New Jersey Administrative Code Amount
19:9-1.2 Speed limits - same payable amount as N.J.S.A. 39:4-98
19:9-1.2 If speeding occurs in a Safe Corridor, Construction Zone or 65 MPH area - same payable amount as N.J.S.A. 39:4-98

19:9-1.3 Failure to obey traffic signs or signals $85
19:9-1.3 Safe Corridor, Construction Zone or 65 MPH area - failure to obey traffic signs or signals $140

19:9-1.4 Operation of a vehicle against the direction of traffic $85

19:9-1.5 Illegal U-Turns $85
19:9-1.5 Safe Corridor or Construction Zone - illegal U-Turns $140

19:9-1.6 Parking, standing or stopping where prohibited $54

19:9-1.7 Driving on the median strip $85
19:9-1.7 Safe Corridor, Construction Zone or 65 MPH area - driving on the median strip $140

19:9-1.9(a)(1) Use of Turnpike by pedestrians $54
19:9-1.9(a)(2) Use of Turnpike by bicycles $54
19:9-1.9(a)(3) Use of Turnpike by motorcycles during adverse weather conditions $54
19:9-1.9(a)(4) Use of Turnpike by vehicles drawn by animals $54
19:9-1.9(a)(5) Use of Turnpike by animals led, ridden or driven $54
19:9-1.9(a)(6) Use of Turnpike by vehicles loaded with animals or poultry not properly confined $54
19:9-1.9(a)(7) Use of Turnpike by vehicles with deflated pneumatic tires or with tires in unsafe condition $54
19:9-1.9(a)(8) Use of Turnpike by farm implements and machinery whether selfpropelled or towed $54
19:9-1.9(a)(9) Use of Turnpike by passenger vehicles or passenger vehicle drawn trailers with improperly secured loads, including loads on top or sides with lateral or horizontal projection in excess of 12: or vertical projection in excess 24" $54
19:9-1.9(a)(12) Use of Turnpike by vehicles that exceed regulated dimensional specification $185
19:9-1.9(a)(14) Use of Turnpike by vehicles in tow, unless in accordance with regulations $54
19:9-1.9(a)(15) Use of Turnpike by vehicles with loads extending more than four (4) feet $54
19:9-1.9(a)(16) Use of Turnpike by vehicles with improperly secured loads $55
19:9-1.9(a)(17) Use of Turnpike by vehicles loaded or operated so that contents may be scattered on roadway $55
19:9-1.9(a)(18) Use of Turnpike by vehicles unable to maintain speed of at least 35 MPH on level grade $54
19:9-1.9(a)(19) Use of Turnpike by vehicles in such condition as to create hazard to other vehicles or to persons $54
19:9-1.9(a)(20) Use of Turnpike by certain vehicles banned during adverse weather conditions $54
19:9-1.9(a)(21) Use of Turnpike by certain vehicles in tow $54
19:9-1.9(a)(23) Use of Turnpike by commercial vehicles overloaded with hay or straw $55
19:9-1.10 Throwing litter from vehicle $230
19:9-1.11 Commercial vehicles carrying loose material not covered by tarpaulin $55
19:9-1.13 Hitch-hiking and loitering $54
19:9-1.14 Failure to follow prescribed towing regulations $54
19:9-1.17 Careless driving where no accident involving personal injury (note - accident involving personal injury cannot be paid through Violations Bureau) $85
19:9-1.18 Violation of maximum sound levels $125
19:9-1.19 Failure to pay tolls $55
19:9-1.20 Failure of operator of interstate commercial motor vehicle to keep proper records $55


Violations of E-Z Pass Regulations
19:9-9.3(a).($.40-1.00) Failure to Pay Required Toll $104
19:9-9.3(a).($1.15-1.90) Failure to Pay Required Toll $105
19:9-9.3(a).($2.05-2.95) Failure to Pay Required Toll $106
19:9-9.3(a).($3.05-3.95) Failure to Pay Required Toll $107
19:9-9.3(a).($4.05-5.00) Failure to Pay Required Toll $108
19:9-9.3(a).($5.10-6.00) Failure to Pay Required Toll $109
19:9-9.3(a).($6.10-7.00) Failure to Pay Required Toll $110
19:9-9.3(a).($7.10-8.00) Failure to Pay Required Toll $111
19:9-9.3(a).($8.15-8.95) Failure to Pay Required Toll $112
19:9-9.3(a).($9.05-9.95) Failure to Pay Required Toll $113
19:9-9.3(a).($10.05-10.95) Failure to Pay Required Toll $119
19:9-9.3(a).($11.20-11.85) Failure to Pay Required Toll $120
19:9-9.3(a).($12.10-12.90) Failure to Pay Required Toll $121
19:9-9.3(a).($13.10-13.90) Failure to Pay Required Toll $122
19:9-9.3(a).($14.15-14.80) Failure to Pay Required Toll $123
19:9-9.3(a).($15.05-15.80) Failure to Pay Required Toll $129
19:9-9.3(a).($16.05-16.85) Failure to Pay Required Toll $130
19:9-9.3(a).($17.05-17.95) Failure to Pay Required Toll $131
19:9-9.3(a).($18.20-18.75) Failure to Pay Required Toll $132
19:9-9.3(a).($19.10-19.80) Failure to Pay Required Toll $133
19:9-9.3(a).($20.10-20.90) Failure to Pay Required Toll $139
19:9-9.3(a).($21.60-21.70) Failure to Pay Required Toll $140
19:9-9.3(a).($22.15-22.70) Failure to Pay Required Toll $141
19:9-9.3(a).($23.50) Failure to Pay Required Toll $142


Stautory Provisios in Addition to Regulations

27:23-25 Refusal to pay or evading payment of tolls $55

27:23-26 Careless driving where no accident involving personal injury (note - accident resulting in personal injury cannot be paid through the Violations Bureau) $85
27:23-26 Safe Corridor, Construction Zone or 65 MPH area-careless driving where no accident involving personal injury (note - accident resulting in personal injury cannot be paid through the Violations Bureau) $140

27:23-27 Slow speed so as to impede or block traffic $85

27:23-28 Failure to obey directions of police officer or traffic device $85
27:23-28 Safe Corridor, Construction Zone or 65 MPH area-failure to obey directions of police officer or traffic device $140

NEW JERSEY HIGHWAY AUTHORITY
(GARDEN STATE PARKWAY)
b) REGULATIONS
N.J.A.C.
Payable
Pursuant to New Jersey Administrative Code Amount

19:8-1.2 Speed limits - same payable amount as N.J.S.A. 39:4-98
19:8-1.2 If speeding occurs in a Safe Corridor or Construction Zone or 65 MPH area - same payable amount as N.J.S.A. 39:4-98

19:8-1.3 Slow speed so as to impede or block traffic $85

19:8-1.4 Operating vehicles against the uniform direction of traffic $85

19:8-1.5 Failure to keep to the right except to pass $85
19:8-1.5 Safe Corridor or Construction Zone - failure to keep to the right except to pass $140

19:8-1.6 Illegal U-Turns $85
19:8-1.6 Safe Corridor or Construction Zone - Illegal U-Turns $140

19:8-1.7 Driving on media strip $85
19:8-1.7 Safe Corridor, Construction Zone or 65 MPH area - driving on media strip $140

19:8-1.8 Parking, standing, stopping where prohibited $54

19:8-1.9(a) Entering or leaving the Parkway at other than designated access points $85
19:8-1.9(a) 65 MPH area - entering or leaving the Parkway at other than designated access points $140
19:8-1.9(b)(1) Use of Parkway by pedestrians $54
19:8-1.9(b)(2) Use of Parkway by vehicles drawn by animals $54
19:8-1.9(b)(3) Use of Parkway by bicycles $54
19:8-1.9(b)(4) Use of Parkway by animals led, ridden, unattended or driven on the hoof $54
19:8-1.9(b)(5) Use of Parkway by vehicles containing animals or poultry not properly confined $54
19:8-1.9(b)(6) Use of Parkway by vehicles whose condition, equipment or tires create a probable hazard to such vehicles or others $54
19:8-1.9(b)(7) Use of Parkway by farm implements and farm machinery whether selfpropelled or towed $54
19:8-1.9(b)(8) Use of Parkway by vehicles with improperly secured attachments or loads $54
19:8-1.9(b)(9) Use of Parkway by vehicles with deflated pneumatic tires, metal or solid tires, or caterpillar treads $54
19:8-1.9(b)(10) Use of Parkway by construction equipment other than trucks $54
19:8-1.9(b)(11) Use of Parkway by vehicles, or combination of vehicles exceeding maximum dimensions: Height-13'6"; Width-8'0"; Length - 55'0: $185
19:8-1.9(b)(12) Use of Parkway by motor vehicle in tow or motor vehicles pushing or being pushed on travel portion of road $54
19:8-1.9(b)(13) Use of Parkway by vehicles with loads extending more than four (4) feet beyond the read or front of the body $54
19:8-1.9(b)(14) Use of Parkway by vehicles carrying anything on the top, sides, front or rear with lateral projection in excess of twelve (12) inches or vertical projection in excess of twenty-four (24) inches from body of vehicle $54
19:8-1.9(b)(15) Use of Parkway by all vehicles except cars, campers, omnibuses, and vehicles entitled to toll-free passage under N.J.A.C. 19:8-32 (Toll-free passage) is prohibited from the Parkway north of Interchange 105 $54

19:8-1.10 Violation of civil defense regulations $54

19:8-1.11 Exceeding load limit of structures on Parkway $55

19:8-1.13 Failure to obey traffic control devices $85

19:8-2.1 Throwing litter from vehicle $230

19:8-2.3 Display of unauthorized posters or advertising $54

19:8-2.4 Holding parades or demonstrations, having picnics, except at designated site $55

19:8-2.5 Hunting and trapping on Parkway $54

19:8-2.7 Igniting fires on Parkway $54

19:8-2.8 Soliciting of alms or contributions $54

19:8-2.9 Hitch-hiking and loitering $54

19:8-2.10 Unauthorized sales and distribution $54

19:8-3.1 Refusal to pay or evading payment of tolls $55


Violations of E-Z Pass Regulations
Pursuant to New Jersey Statutes Annotated Amount
19:8-14.3(a).($.25-1.00) Failure to Pay Required Toll $104
19:8-14.3(a).($1.05-2.00) Failure to Pay Required Toll $105
19:8-14.3(a).(2.10) Failure to Pay Required Toll ($2.10) $106


Statutory Provisions in Addition to Regulations

27:12B-18(b) Careless driving where no accident involving personal injury (note - accident resulting in personal injury cannot be paid through the Violations Bureau) $85
27:12B-18(b) Safe Corridor, Construction Zone or 65 MPH area-careless driving where no accident involving personal injury (accident resulting in personal injury cannot be paid through the Violations Bureau) $140
27:12B-18(d) Slow speed so as to impede or block traffic $85
27:12B-18(f) Failure to obey directions of police officer or traffic device $85
27:12B-18(f) Safe Corridor, Construction Zone or 65 MPH area - failure to obey directions of police officer of traffic device $140

Consequences of a Criminal Guilty Plea

1. You will have to appear in open court and tell the judge what you did that makes you guilty of the particular offense(s)

2. Do you understand that if you plead guilty:

a. You will have a criminal record

b. You may go to Jail or Prison.

c. You will have to pay Fines and Court Costs.

3. If you are on Probation, you will have to submit to random drug and urine testing. If you violate Probation, you often go to jail.

4. In indictable matters, you will be required to provide a DNA sample, which could be used by law enforcement for the investigation of criminal activity, and pay for the cost of testing.

5. You must pay restitution if the court finds there is a victim who has suffered a loss and if the court finds that you are able or will be able in the future to pay restitution.

6. If you are a public office holder or employee, you can be required to forfeit your office or job by virtue of your plea of guilty.

7. If you are not a United States citizen or national, you may be deported by virtue of your plea of guilty.

8. You must wait 5-10 years to expunge a first offense. 2C:52-3

9. You could be put on Probation.

10. In Drug Cases, a mandatory DEDR penalty of $500-$1,000, and lose your driver's license for 6 months - 2years. You must pay a Law Enforcement Officers Training and Equipment Fund penalty of $30.

11. You may be required to do Community Service.

12. You must pay a minimum Violent Crimes Compensation Board assessment of $50 ($100 minimum if you are convicted of a crime of violence) for each count to which you plead guilty.

13. You must pay a $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund assessment for each conviction.

14. If you are being sentenced to probation, you must pay a fee of up to $25 per month for the term of probation.

15. You lose the presumption against incarceration in future cases. 2C:44-1

16. You may lose your right to vote.

The defense of a person charged with a criminal offense is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client accused of a criminal offense.

Jail for Crimes and Disorderly Conduct:

If someone pleads Guilty or is found Guilty of a criminal offense, the following is the statutory Prison/Jail terms.

NJSA 2C: 43-8 (1) In the case of a crime of the first degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between 10 years and 20 years;

(2) In the case of a crime of the second degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between five years and 10 years;

(3) In the case of a crime of the third degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between three years and five years;

(4) In the case of a crime of the fourth degree, for a specific term which shall be fixed by the court and shall not exceed 18 months.

2C:43-3 Fines have been increased recently! 2C:43-3. Fines and Restitutions. A person who has been convicted of an offense may be sentenced to pay a fine, to make restitution, or both, such fine not to exceed:

a. (1) $200,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the first degree;

(2) $150,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the second degree;

b. (1) $15,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the third degree;

(2) $10,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the fourth degree;

c. $1,000.00, when the conviction is of a disorderly persons offense;

d. $500.00, when the conviction is of a petty disorderly persons offense;

If facing any criminal charge, retain an experienced attorney immediately to determine you rights and obligations to the court.

Unsafe Driving

39:4-97.2 Unsafe Driving, operating a motor vehicle in an unsafe manner, offense created; fines., 4 points on third offense

1. a. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, it shall be unlawful for any person to drive or operate a motor vehicle in an unsafe manner likely to endanger a person or property.

B. A person convicted of a first offense under subsection a. shall be subject to a fine of not less than $50.00 or more than $150.00 and shall not be assessed any motor vehicle penalty points pursuant to section 1 of P.L. 1982, c.43 (C.39:5-30.5).

c. A person convicted of a second offense under subsection a. shall be subject to a fine of not less than $100.00 or more than $250.00 and shall not be assessed any motor vehicle penalty points pursuant to section 1 of P.L. 1982, c.43 (C.39:5-30.5).

d. A person convicted of a third or subsequent offense under subsection a. shall be subject to a fine of not less than $200.00 or more than $500.00 and shall be assessed motor vehicle penalty points pursuant to section 1 of P.L. 1982, c.43 (C.39:5-30.5).

e. An offense committed under this section that occurs more than five years after the prior offense shall not be considered a subsequent offense for the purpose of assessing motor vehicle penalty points under subsection d. of this section.

L.2000, c.75, s.1.

Protect your Rights.

Before you pled guilty and face potentially thousands of dollars in fees and surcharges, schedule an "in office" appointment with our attorneys experienced in handling these matters. The Police have an experienced attorney as Prosecutor to represent them. Do not jeopardize your driver's license and ability to drive to work.

Consequences of a Criminal Guilty Plea

1. You will have to appear in open court and tell the judge what you did that makes you guilty of the particular offense(s)

2. Do you understand that if you plead guilty:

a. You will have a criminal record

b. You may go to Jail or Prison.

c. You will have to pay Fines and Court Costs.

3. If you are on Probation, you will have to submit to random drug and urine testing. If you violate Probation, you often go to jail.

4. In indictable matters, you will be required to provide a DNA sample, which could be used by law enforcement for the investigation of criminal activity, and pay for the cost of testing.

5. You must pay restitution if the court finds there is a victim who has suffered a loss and if the court finds that you are able or will be able in the future to pay restitution.

6. If you are a public office holder or employee, you can be required to forfeit your office or job by virtue of your plea of guilty.

7. If you are not a United States citizen or national, you may be deported by virtue of your plea of guilty.

8. You must wait 5-10 years to expunge a first offense. 2C:52-3

9. You could be put on Probation.

10. In Drug Cases, a mandatory DEDR penalty of $500-$1,000, and lose your driver's license for 6 months - 2years. You must pay a Law Enforcement Officers Training and Equipment Fund penalty of $30.

11. You may be required to do Community Service.

12. You must pay a minimum Violent Crimes Compensation Board assessment of $50 ($100 minimum if you are convicted of a crime of violence) for each count to which you plead guilty.

13. You must pay a $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund assessment for each conviction.

14. If you are being sentenced to probation, you must pay a fee of up to $25 per month for the term of probation.

15. You lose the presumption against incarceration in future cases. 2C:44-1

16. You may lose your right to vote.

The defense of a person charged with a criminal offense is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client accused of a criminal offense.

Jail for Crimes and Disorderly Conduct:

If someone pleads Guilty or is found Guilty of a criminal offense, the following is the statutory Prison/Jail terms.

NJSA 2C: 43-8 (1) In the case of a crime of the first degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between 10 years and 20 years;

(2) In the case of a crime of the second degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between five years and 10 years;

(3) In the case of a crime of the third degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between three years and five years;

(4) In the case of a crime of the fourth degree, for a specific term which shall be fixed by the court and shall not exceed 18 months.

2C:43-3 Fines have been increased recently! 2C:43-3. Fines and Restitutions. A person who has been convicted of an offense may be sentenced to pay a fine, to make restitution, or both, such fine not to exceed:

a. (1) $200,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the first degree;

(2) $150,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the second degree;

b. (1) $15,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the third degree;

(2) $10,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the fourth degree;

c. $1,000.00, when the conviction is of a disorderly persons offense;

d. $500.00, when the conviction is of a petty disorderly persons offense;

If facing any criminal charge, retain an experienced attorney immediately to determine you rights and obligations to the court.

Unregistered vehicle violations 39:3-4

39:3-4 Registration of automobiles and motorcycles, application, registration certificates; expiration; issuance; violations; notification. 39:3-4. Except as hereinafter provided, every resident of this State and every nonresident whose automobile or motorcycle shall be driven in this State shall, before using such vehicle on the public highways, register the same, and no automobile or motorcycle shall be driven unless so registered.

Such registration shall be made in the following manner: An application in writing, signed by the applicant or by an agent or officer, in case the applicant is a corporation, shall be made to the chief administrator or the chief administrator's agent, on forms prepared and supplied by the chief administrator, containing the name, street address of the residence or the business of the owner, mailing address, if different from the street address of the owner's residence or business, and age of the owner, together with a description of the character of the automobile or motorcycle, including the name of the maker and the vehicle identification number, or the manufacturer's number or the number assigned by the chief administrator if the vehicle does not have a vehicle identification number, and any other statement that may be required by the chief administrator. A post office box shall appear on the application only as part of a mailing address that is submitted by the owner, agent or officer, as the case may be, in addition to the street address of the applicant's residence or business; provided, however, the chief administrator, upon application, shall permit a person who was a victim of a violation of N.J.S. 2C:12-10, N.J.S. 2C:14-2, or N.J.S. 2C:25-17 et seq., or who the chief administrator otherwise determines to have good cause, to use as a mailing address a post office box, an address other than the applicant's address or other contact point. An owner whose last address appears on the records of the division as a post office box shall change his address on his application for renewal to the street address of his residence or business and, if different from his street address, his mailing address unless the chief administrator has determined, pursuant to this section, that the owner may use a post office box, an address other than the owner's address or other contact point as a mailing address. The application shall contain the name of the insurer of the vehicle and the policy number. If the vehicle is a leased motor vehicle, the application shall make note of that fact and shall include along with the name and street address of the lessor the name, street address and driver license number of the lessee.

Thereupon the chief administrator shall have the power to grant a registration certificate to the owner of any motor vehicle, if over 17 years of age, application for the registration having been properly made and the fee therefor paid, and the vehicle being of a type that complies with the requirements of this title. The form and contents of the registration certificate to be issued shall be determined by the chief administrator.

If the vehicle is a leased motor vehicle, the registration certificate shall, in addition to containing the name and street address of the lessor, identify the vehicle as a leased motor vehicle.

The chief administrator shall maintain a record of all registration certificates issued, and of the contents thereof.

Every registration shall expire and the registration certificate thereof become void on the last day of the twelfth calendar month following the calendar month in which the certificate was issued; provided, however, that the chief administrator may, at his discretion, require registrations which shall expire, and issue certificates thereof which shall become void, on a date fixed by him, which date shall not be sooner than three months nor later than 26 months after the date of issuance of such certificates, and the fees for such registrations, including any other fees or charges collected in connection with the registration fee, shall be fixed by the chief administrator in amounts proportionately less or greater than the fees established by law. The chief administrator may fix the expiration date for registration certificates at a date other than 12 months if the chief administrator determines that the change is necessary, appropriate or convenient in order to aid in implementing the vehicle inspection requirements of chapter 8 of Title 39 or for other good cause. The chief administrator may, for good cause extend a registration beyond the expiration date that appears upon the registration certificate for periods not to exceed 12 additional months. The chief administrator may extend the expiration date of a registration without payment of a proportionate fee when the chief administrator determines that such extension is necessary for good cause. If any registration is so extended, the owner shall pay upon renewal the full registration fee for the period fixed by the chief administrator as if no extension had been granted.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, every registration for new passenger automobiles shall expire and the registration certificate shall become void on the last day of the 48th calendar month following the calendar month in which the certificate was initially issued. On and after February 1, 2005, the provisions of this paragraph shall not apply to new passenger automobiles purchased by a rental company for use as rental passenger automobiles. As used in this paragraph, "rental company" means a person engaged in the business of renting motor vehicles; and "rental passenger automobile" means a passenger automobile that is rented without a driver and used in the transportation of persons or property other than commercial freight.

If the new passenger automobile being registered is a leased passenger automobile, the registration shall expire in accordance with the term of the lease. If the term of the lease extends beyond one or more 12-month periods by one or more months, the registration period shall be based upon the full year into which one or more of the months extend; provided, however, the registration period for a leased automobile shall not exceed 48-months.

Following the 48-month period of the initial registration of a new passenger automobile, the subsequent registration shall expire, and the registration certificate shall become void, on the last day of the 12th calendar month following the calendar month in which the certificate was next issued.

All motorcycles for which registrations have been issued prior to the effective date of P.L. 1989, c.167 and which are scheduled to expire between November 1 and March 31 shall, upon renewal, be issued registrations by the chief administrator which shall expire on a date fixed by him, but in no case shall that expiration date be earlier than April 30 nor later than October 31. The fees for the renewal of the motorcycle registrations authorized under this paragraph shall be fixed by the chief administrator in an amount proportionately less or greater than the fee established by R.S. 39:3-21.

Application forms for all renewals of registrations for passenger automobiles shall be sent to the last addresses of owners of motor vehicles and motorcycles, as they appear on the records of the division.

No person owning or having control over any unregistered vehicle shall permit the same to be parked or to stand on a public highway.

Any police officer is authorized to remove any unregistered vehicle from the public highway to a storage space or garage, and the expense involved in such removal and storing of the vehicle shall be borne by the owner of the vehicle, except that the expense shall be borne by the lessee of a leased vehicle.

Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be subject to a fine not exceeding $100, except that for the misstatement of any fact in the application required to be made to the chief administrator, the person making such statement or omitting the statement that the motor vehicle is to be used as a leased motor vehicle when that is the case shall be subject to the penalties provided in R.S. 39:3-37.

The chief administrator may extend the expiration date of a registration certificate without payment of a proportionate fee when the chief administrator determines that such extension is necessary, appropriate or convenient to the implementation of vehicle inspection requirements. If any registration certificate is so extended, the owner shall pay upon renewal the full registration fee for the period fixed by the chief administrator as if no extension had been granted.

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission shall make a reasonable effort to notify any lessor whose name and address is on file with the commission, or any other lessor the commission may determine it is necessary to notify, of the requirements of this amendatory act.

A lessor doing business in this State shall notify in writing the lessee of a motor vehicle registered pursuant to this Title of any change in its policies or procedures affecting the registration of the motor vehicle.

Amended in 2004

39:3-4a. Temporary registration of motor vehicle in another state by resident of New Jersey Notwithstanding the provisions of Revised Statutes 39:3-4 every resident of this State who acquires and temporarily registers a motor vehicle in another State may operate such vehicle or cause such vehicle to be operated on the public highways of this State for a period not in excess of the unexpired term of such temporary registration in another State.

39:3-4b. Temporary registration Any nonresident purchasing an automobile in the State while enroute to another State or Federal district from a licensed dealer may register the same in New Jersey on a temporary basis.

Such temporary registration shall be made in the following manner: An application in writing, signed by the applicant or by an agent or officer in case the applicant is a corporation, shall be made to the director or his lawful agent, on forms prepared and supplied by the director, containing the name, address and age of the owner, together with a description of the character of the automobile, including the name of the maker and the manufacturer's number or the motor number, or both, and any other statement that may be required by the director. If the vehicle is insured by motor vehicle liability insurance as provided for in section 3 of chapter 173 of the laws of 1952, the applicant must file an accompanying certificate, issued by the insurance carrier. An application shall contain the name of the insurer of said vehicle and the policy number.

In the event that such insurance is terminated, the insurer shall notify the director within 30 days, following such termination.

Thereupon the director or licensed dealer shall have the power to grant a temporary registration certificate and temporary plates to the owner of any automobile, if over 17 years of age, either directly or through any licensed motor vehicle dealer who is not within the geographical district, application for the temporary registration having been properly made and the fee therefor paid, and the vehicle being of a type that complies with the requirements of this subtitle. The form and contents of the temporary registration certificate to be issued shall be prescribed by the director. The director shall maintain a record of all temporary registration certificates issued, and of the contents thereof.

Every temporary registration shall expire and the certificate thereof become void on the twentieth day following the date on which the certificate was issued; no temporary registration shall be renewed, except as a permanent registration pursuant to section 39:3-4 of the Revised Statutes, and after payment of the fees prescribed therein.

The director shall issue temporary registration certificates for the 20 day registration period, which shall be effective immediately.

Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be subject to a fine not exceeding $100.00, except that for the misstatement of any fact in the application required to be made by the director, the person making such statement shall be subject to the penalties provided in section 39:3-37 of this Title.

Conclusion

Certain motor vehicle violations can cost you. You will have to pay fines in court. A conviction will require you to pay expensive surcharges to the N.J. MVC [Division of Motor Vehicles] If you have too many points or do not timely pay surcharges, your license will be suspended. Don't give up! The Law Office of Kenneth Vercammen can provide experienced attorney representation for Motor vehicle violations. When your driver's license is in jeopardy, or you are facing thousands of dollars in fines, DMV surcharges and car insurance increases, you need excellent legal representation. If charged with a serious motor vehicle violation, such as Driving While Intoxicated, immediately schedule an in-office appointment with a trial attorney. Don't rely on a real estate attorney, public defender or a family member who simply attended law school. When your driving privileges and ability to drive to work is on the line, hire an experienced attorney. Car insurance companies increase rates or drop customers based on moving violations. The least expensive attorney is not always the answer.

Consequences of a Criminal Guilty Plea

1. You will have to appear in open court and tell the judge what you did that makes you guilty of the particular offense(s)

2. Do you understand that if you plead guilty:

a. You will have a criminal record

b. You may go to Jail or Prison.

c. You will have to pay Fines and Court Costs.

3. If you are on Probation, you will have to submit to random drug and urine testing. If you violate Probation, you often go to jail.

4. In indictable matters, you will be required to provide a DNA sample, which could be used by law enforcement for the investigation of criminal activity, and pay for the cost of testing.

5. You must pay restitution if the court finds there is a victim who has suffered a loss and if the court finds that you are able or will be able in the future to pay restitution.

6. If you are a public office holder or employee, you can be required to forfeit your office or job by virtue of your plea of guilty.

7. If you are not a United States citizen or national, you may be deported by virtue of your plea of guilty.

8. You must wait 5-10 years to expunge a first offense. 2C:52-3

9. You could be put on Probation.

10. In Drug Cases, a mandatory DEDR penalty of $500-$1,000, and lose your driver's license for 6 months - 2years. You must pay a Law Enforcement Officers Training and Equipment Fund penalty of $30.

11. You may be required to do Community Service.

12. You must pay a minimum Violent Crimes Compensation Board assessment of $50 ($100 minimum if you are convicted of a crime of violence) for each count to which you plead guilty.

13. You must pay a $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund assessment for each conviction.

14. If you are being sentenced to probation, you must pay a fee of up to $25 per month for the term of probation.

15. You lose the presumption against incarceration in future cases. 2C:44-1

16. You may lose your right to vote.

The defense of a person charged with a criminal offense is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client accused of a criminal offense.

Jail for Crimes and Disorderly Conduct:

If someone pleads Guilty or is found Guilty of a criminal offense, the following is the statutory Prison/Jail terms.

NJSA 2C: 43-8 (1) In the case of a crime of the first degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between 10 years and 20 years;

(2) In the case of a crime of the second degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between five years and 10 years;

(3) In the case of a crime of the third degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between three years and five years;

(4) In the case of a crime of the fourth degree, for a specific term which shall be fixed by the court and shall not exceed 18 months.

2C:43-3 Fines have been increased recently! 2C:43-3. Fines and Restitutions. A person who has been convicted of an offense may be sentenced to pay a fine, to make restitution, or both, such fine not to exceed:

a. (1) $200,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the first degree;

(2) $150,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the second degree;

b. (1) $15,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the third degree;

(2) $10,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the fourth degree;

c. $1,000.00, when the conviction is of a disorderly persons offense;

d. $500.00, when the conviction is of a petty disorderly persons offense;

If facing any criminal charge, retain an experienced attorney immediately to determine you rights and obligations to the court.

39:3-10.20 Suspension of Commercial Motor Vehicle Driving Privilege

a. In addition to the imposition of any other penalty provided by law, the chief administrator shall suspend for not less than one year nor more than three years the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person convicted for a first violation of:
(1) R.S.39:4-50 if the motor vehicle was a commercial motor vehicle or section 5 of this act.

(2) R.S.39:4-129 if the motor vehicle was a commercial motor vehicle operated by the person.

(3) Using a commercial motor vehicle in the commission of any "crime" as defined in subsection a., c., or d. of N.J.S.2C:1-4.

(4) Refusal to submit to a chemical test under section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2) or section 16 of this act if the motor vehicle was a commercial motor vehicle.

(5) Paragraph (1) of subsection b. of section 10 of this act.

(6) A violation, arising in connection with a fatal accident, of State or local law relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than a parking violation, regardless of whether the motor vehicle operated by the person was a commercial motor vehicle or a non-commercial motor vehicle.

b. If a first violation of any of the violations specified in subsection a. of this section takes place while transporting hazardous material or takes place in a vehicle displaying a hazardous material placard, the chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of the person for three years.

c. Subject to the provisions of subsection d. of this section, the chief administrator shall revoke for life the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a second or subsequent violation of any of the offenses specified in subsection a. or any combination of those offenses arising from two or more separate incidents.

d. The chief administrator may issue rules and regulations establishing guidelines, including conditions under which a revocation of commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for life under subsection c. may be reduced to a period of not less than 10 years.

e. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the chief administrator shall revoke for life the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person who uses a commercial motor vehicle in the commission of a crime involving the manufacture, distribution, or dispensing of a controlled substance or controlled substance analog, or possession with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled substance or controlled substance analog. A revocation under this subsection shall not be subject to reduction in accordance with subsection d. of this section.

f. (1) The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than 60 days if the person is convicted of a serious traffic violation, other than a violation arising in connection with a fatal accident as set forth in paragraph (6) of subsection a. of this section, and that conviction constitutes the second serious traffic violation committed in a commercial motor vehicle or non-commercial motor vehicle in this or any other state arising from separate incidents occurring within a three year period. The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for 120 days if the conviction constitutes the third or subsequent serious traffic violation, other than a violation arising in connection with a fatal accident as set forth in paragraph (6) of subsection a. of this section, committed in a commercial motor vehicle or non-commercial motor vehicle in this or any other state arising from separate incidents occurring within a three year period.

(2) The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than 60 days if the person is convicted of a violation of R.S.39:4-128; section 68 of P.L.1951, c.23 (C.39:4-127.1); or section 10 of P.L.2005, c.147 (C.39:4-128.11). The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for not less than 120 days if the conviction constitutes the second violation of R.S.39:4-128; section 68 of P.L.1951, c.23 (C.39:4-127.1); section 10 of P.L.2005, c.147 (C.39:4-128.11) or any combination of such violations in this or any other state arising from separate incidents occurring within a three-year period. The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for not less than one year if the conviction constitutes the third or subsequent violation of R.S.39:4-128; section 68 of P.L.1951, c.23 (39:4-127.1); section 10 of P.L.2005, c.147 (39:4-128.11) or any combination of such violations in this or any other state arising from separate incidents occurring within the past three years.

(3) The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than 180 days or more than one year if the person is convicted of violating a driver or vehicle out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting nonhazardous materials. The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than one year or more than five years if the conviction constitutes the second conviction in a separate incident in this or any other state within a 10- year period of violating a driver or vehicle out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting nonhazardous materials. The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege for a person for a period of not less than three years or more than five years if the conviction constitutes the third or subsequent conviction in a separate incident in this or any other state within a 10-year period of violating a driver or vehicle out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting nonhazardous materials.

(4) The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than 180 days or more than two years if the person is convicted of violating a driver or vehicle out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting hazardous materials required to be placarded under Subpart F of 49 C.F.R.s.172, or while operating a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. The chief administrator shall suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a period of not less than three years or more than five years if the conviction constitutes a second or subsequent conviction in a separate incident within a 10-year period in this or any other state of violating a driver or vehicle out-of-service order while driving a commercial motor vehicle transporting hazardous materials required to be placarded under Subpart F of 49 C.F.R. s.172, or while operating a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

g. A court shall make a report to the chief administrator within three days in such form as the chief administrator may require concerning conviction for violation of P.L. 1990, c.103 (C.39:3-10.9 et seq.). The chief administrator shall notify the Commercial Driver License Information System of the suspension, revocation, or cancellation. In the case of non-residents, the chief administrator also shall notify the licensing authority of the state which issued the commercial driver license or the state where the person is domiciled. The chief administrator shall provide these notices within 10 days after the suspension, revocation, cancellation, or disqualification.

h. The chief administrator shall in accordance with this section suspend a commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person holding, or required to hold, a commercial driver license issued by this State if the person is convicted in another state or foreign jurisdiction of an offense of a substantially similar nature to the offenses specified in subsection a., e., f., g., h., i., or j. of this section. For purposes of this section, a violation such as driving while intoxicated, driving under the influence, or driving while ability is impaired shall be considered substantially similar offenses. For purposes of this section, a violation committed in another state but substantially similar to those enumerated in subsection a., e., f., g., h., i., or j. of this section committed in this State shall be included.

i. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a conviction under this section, or section 5 or 16 of this act, shall not merge with a conviction for a violation of R.S.39:4-50 or section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2.)

j. In addition to any other penalty provided by law, the chief administrator shall suspend for one year the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person for a first violation of:

(1) R.S.39:4-50 while operating a non-commercial motor vehicle;

(2) R.S.39:4-129 while operating a non-commercial motor vehicle;

(3) Refusing to submit to a chemical test under section 2 of P.L.1966, c.142 (C.39:4-50.2) while operating a non-commercial motor vehicle; or

(4) Using a non-commercial motor vehicle in the commission of any "crime" as defined in subsection a., c., or d. of N.J.S.2C:1-4.

k. The chief administrator shall in accordance with this section suspend the commercial motor vehicle driving privilege of a person holding, or required to hold, a commercial driver license issued by this State if that person has been disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration pursuant to 49 C.F.R. s.383.52 because that person's driving has been determined to constitute an imminent hazard.

l. The Motor Vehicle Commission shall maintain records of accidents, convictions, and disqualification for persons holding, or required to hold, a commercial driver license in accordance with 49 C.F.R. s.384.225 and the AAMVAnet, Inc.'s "Commercial Driver License Information System State Procedures," as amended and supplemented.

Consequences of a Criminal Guilty Plea

1. You will have to appear in open court and tell the judge what you did that makes you guilty of the particular offense(s)

2. Do you understand that if you plead guilty:

a. You will have a criminal record

b. You may go to Jail or Prison.

c. You will have to pay Fines and Court Costs.

3. If you are on Probation, you will have to submit to random drug and urine testing. If you violate Probation, you often go to jail.

4. In indictable matters, you will be required to provide a DNA sample, which could be used by law enforcement for the investigation of criminal activity, and pay for the cost of testing.

5. You must pay restitution if the court finds there is a victim who has suffered a loss and if the court finds that you are able or will be able in the future to pay restitution.

6. If you are a public office holder or employee, you can be required to forfeit your office or job by virtue of your plea of guilty.

7. If you are not a United States citizen or national, you may be deported by virtue of your plea of guilty.

8. You must wait 5-10 years to expunge a first offense. 2C:52-3

9. You could be put on Probation.

10. In Drug Cases, a mandatory DEDR penalty of $500-$1,000, and lose your driver's license for 6 months - 2years. You must pay a Law Enforcement Officers Training and Equipment Fund penalty of $30.

11. You may be required to do Community Service.

12. You must pay a minimum Violent Crimes Compensation Board assessment of $50 ($100 minimum if you are convicted of a crime of violence) for each count to which you plead guilty.

13. You must pay a $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund assessment for each conviction.

14. If you are being sentenced to probation, you must pay a fee of up to $25 per month for the term of probation.

15. You lose the presumption against incarceration in future cases. 2C:44-1

16. You may lose your right to vote.

The defense of a person charged with a criminal offense is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client accused of a criminal offense.

Jail for Crimes and Disorderly Conduct:

If someone pleads Guilty or is found Guilty of a criminal offense, the following is the statutory Prison/Jail terms.

NJSA 2C: 43-8 (1) In the case of a crime of the first degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between 10 years and 20 years;

(2) In the case of a crime of the second degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between five years and 10 years;

(3) In the case of a crime of the third degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between three years and five years;

(4) In the case of a crime of the fourth degree, for a specific term which shall be fixed by the court and shall not exceed 18 months.

2C:43-3 Fines have been increased recently! 2C:43-3. Fines and Restitutions. A person who has been convicted of an offense may be sentenced to pay a fine, to make restitution, or both, such fine not to exceed:

a. (1) $200,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the first degree;

(2) $150,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the second degree;

b. (1) $15,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the third degree;

(2) $10,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the fourth degree;

c. $1,000.00, when the conviction is of a disorderly persons offense;

d. $500.00, when the conviction is of a petty disorderly persons offense;

If facing any criminal charge, retain an experienced attorney immediately to determine you rights and obligations to the court.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

39:3-27.32. Fees used to cover additional costs.

The fees established hereinabove are appropriated to the division of motor vehicles to fund the additional costs incurred in making such plates available.
For information on points go to www.njawls.com.

39:3-27.29. Special license plates for county officials.

Upon the application of any person who is a member of the board of chosen freeholders in, or surrogate, country clerk, county register of deeds and morgages, elected country executive, sheriff, or any other officer of any country, the Director of the Division of Motor vehicles shall issue for the motor vehicle owned or leased by such person special registration plates bearing the word "freeholder," surrogate, county clerk, county register of deeds and mortgages, elected county esecutive, sheriff, or any other title designation as may be appropriate, in addition to the registration number and other markings or identification otherwise prescribed by law.
These registration plates shall be imprinted with three letters and a numbers.
For information on points go to www.njlaws.com.

39:3-27.28. Fees collectd to be used in making license plates available.

All fees colelcted as provided for herein are hereby appropriated to the Division of Motor Vehicles to fund the additional costs incurred in making such plates available.
For information on points go to www.njlaws.com.

39:3-27.25. Rules and Regulations.

The director of the Division of Motor Vehicles and the Adjutant Genreal of the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs shall promulgate and adopt rules and regulations governing the issuance and use of such registration plates.
For information on points go to www.njlaws.com.

39:3-27.24. "P.O.W." license plates authorized.

Upon the application of any person who served in the armed forces of the United sTates and who was held as a prisoner of war by an enemy of the United STates during any armed conflict, as certified by the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs, the Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles shall issue for the motor vehicle owned by such person special plates bearing the letters "P.O.W." in addition to the registration numbre and other markings or identification otherwise prescribed by law. There shall be no cost to the applicant for these special plates. The applicant is requird to pay the fees otherwise prescribed by law for the registration of motor vehicles.
The surviving spouse of a former prisoner of war who is eligible to operate a motor vehicle in this State under the provision of R.S. 39:3-10 may retain the special license plates obtained by the deceased spouse pursuant to this section for display on a motor vehicle registered to the surviving spouse under the provisions of R.S. 39:3-4.
For information on points go to www.njlaws.com.

39:3-27.22. Fine establilshed.

The fine for violating this act is not less than $25.00 nor more than $50.00.
For information on points go to www.njlaws.com.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

SPEEDY TRIAL LAW

When your driver's license is in jeopardy or you are facing thousands of dollars in fines, DMV surcharges and car insurance increases, you need excellent legal representation. The least expensive attorney is not always the answer. Please call us if you need experienced legal representation in a traffic/municipal court matter. Our web site www.njlaws.com provides information on traffic offenses we can be retained to represent people. Our
web site also provides details on jail terms for traffic violations and car insurance eligibility points. Car insurance companies increase rates or drop customers based on moving violations.

The defense of a person charged with criminal offenses and DWI is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client. In a DWI case, State v. Farrell NJ Super (App. Div 1999) a DWI conviction was reversed and case dismissed based on speedy trial violation. The court held: "Excessive delay in completing a prosecution can potentially violate a defendant's constitutional right to a speedy trial as a matter of fundamental fairness, apart from whether double jeopardy standards have been contravened. Id. at 354-55. In cases arising from municipal court DWI prosecutions, just as with criminal prosecutions, consideration whether the right to a speedy trial has been violated is guided by the four factors announced in Barker v. Wingo, 407 U.S. 514, 530, 92 S. Ct. 2182, 2192, 33 L. Ed.2d 101, 117-18 (1972). Gallegan, supra, [117 NJ 345, 1989] 117 N.J. at 355; State v. Prickett, 240 N.J. Super. 139, 143 (App. Div. 1990)." Farrell, supra.


Specifically, the court must engage in a multi-element balancing process of the four factors: the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, whether the defendant asserted his right to speedy trial, and any prejudice to the defendant occasioned by the delay. Gallegan, supra, 117 N.J. at 355;
State v. Marcus, 294 N.J. Super. 267, 293 (App. Div. 1996), certif. denied, 157 N.J. 543 (1997). State v Farrell NJ supra. Delay caused or requested by the defendant is not considered to weigh in favor of finding a speedy trial violation. Gallegan, supra, 117 N.J. at 355; Marcus, supra, 294 N.J. Super. at 293. Further, because the evaluative process involves a balancing of considerations, if the other factors weigh heavily enough, a speedy trial violation can be established without an affirmative showing of prejudice to the defendant. See State v. Smith, 131 N.J. Super. 354, 368 n.2 (App. Div. 1974), aff'd o.b., 70 N.J. 213 (1976). In a related vein, the defendant's demonstration of prejudice is not strictly limited to a "lessened ability to defend on the merits." Ibid. Rather, prejudice can be found from a variety of factors including "employment interruptions, public obloquy, anxieties concerning the continued and unresolved prosecution, the drain on finances, and the like." Ibid. (citing Moore v Arizona, 414 U.S. 25, 94 S. Ct. 188, 38 L. Ed.2d 183 (1973)), cited by State V Farre;. supra.

The New Jersey judiciary is, as a matter of policy, committed to the quick and thorough resolution of DWI cases. In 1984, Chief Justice Wilentz issued a directive, later echoed in Municipal Court Bulletin letters from the Administrative Office of the Courts, that municipal courts should attempt to dispose of DWI cases within sixty days. See State v. Fox, 249 N.J. Super. 521, 523 & n.1 (Law Div. 1991); State v. Perkins, 219 N.J. Super. 121, 124 (Law Div. 1987).

In Perkins, supra, defendant was charged with DWI on October 10, 1986, following a car accident in which only he was injured. 219 N.J. Super. at 122. Defendant first appeared in municipal court on December 4, 1986, but the State was not prepared to proceed and sought a continuance. Id. at 123. The trial was reset for January 8, 1987, and the municipal court judge stated that defendant would be entitled to a dismissal if the State was not ready to prosecute. Ibid. Nevertheless, even though the State was not prepared on January 8 due to a change of prosecutor and subpoena problems,
the municipal court denied defendant's motion to dismiss. Perkins at 123-24. On appeal, in Perkins the Law Division dismissed the complaint against
defendant. Id. at 124. After first noting the Supreme Court's sixty-day directive, the judge stressed that the municipal court had promised that the
case would be tried or dismissed on that date. Id. at 124-25. He stated that "[a] court's promise is sacrosanct" and must be honored. Id. at 125.
Accordingly, the municipal court's denial of defendant's motion to dismiss was evaluated as "an arbitrary, and therefore improper" exercise of discretion. Ibid. The municipal court's promises aside, the Law Division judge added, a substitution of prosecutor and failure to subpoena witnesses
and otherwise prepare the State's case could not justify the second adjournment. Ibid.


As a general rule in applying the evaluative features of the four-part test of Barker in fundamental fairness terms, delays of scheduling and other failures of the process for which the trial court itself was responsible are attributable to the State and not to the defendant. 407 U.S. at 531, 92 S.
Ct. at 2192, 33 L. Ed. 2d at 117


"A defendant has no duty to bring himself to trial; the State has that duty as well as the duty of insuring that the trial is consistent with due process. Moreover...society has a particular interest in bringing swift prosecutions, and society's representatives are the ones who should protect that interest." State v Perkins, supra at 127, quoting Barker v Wingo, supra, 497 U.S. at 527.


The Municipal Court Can Dismiss Complaints Against Defendant When the State is Not Ready to Proceed or Discovery Not Provided. Preparation of the State's case is clearly a prosecutorial function and is a responsibility that cannot be shifted to others. Any attempt by the prosecutor to place this function upon the clerk, who is an impartial judicial officer, is improper. State v. Perkins, 219 N.J. Super.121, 125, 529 A.2d 1056 (Law Div. 1987). In State v. Polasky, 216 N.J. Super. 549 (Law Div 1986) Judge Haines discussed the municipal prosecutor's role in connection with discovery, and added:

"There is further reason for requiring the prosecutor to be responsible. In our court system, the prosecutor, contrary to an ordinary advocate, has a
duty to see that justice is done. State v. D'Ippolito, 19 N.J. 450, 549-550 [117 A.2d 592] (1955). He is not to prosecute, for example, when the
evidence does not support the State's charges. Consequently, the prosecutor has an obligation to defendants as well as the State and the public. Our
discovery rules implicate that obligation, an obligation which can be discharged by no one else." [216 N.J. Super. at 555, 524 A.2d 474] As set forth in State v Prickett; 240 NJ Super 139, 146 (App. Div 1990), it is the municipal prosecutor who selects the State's witnesses, requests postponements for the State, complies with discovery rules, requests dismissal if the State cannot make out a case, and does all else necessary to prepare and present the State's cases in the municipal court. See also Position 3.11, "The Role of the Prosecutor, Report of the Supreme Court Task Force on the Improvement of Municipal Courts (1985)".

R. 1:2-4(a) provides for payment of costs to an adverse party as a condition of adjournment even where the State is the offending party in a criminal action. State v. Audette, 201 N.J. Super. 410, 493 A. 2d 540 (App. Div. 1985).

In Prickett, supra the Appellate Division agreed with the Law Division judge that the case should be remanded to the municipal court for determination and imposition of appropriate costs and for trial within 45 days of the date of this opinion.

If a party has failed to comply with this Rule [a discovery request] or with an order issued pursuant to this Rule, the court may order such party to permit the discovery or inspection of materials not previously disclosed, grant a continuance, or prohibit the party from introducing in evidence the material not disclosed, or it may enter such other order as it deems appropriate. State v Prickett 240 NJ Super 139, 145 App. Div (1990) "We have the problem of a part-time municipal prosecutor responsible for preparing cases for trial who abandons a prosecutorial function to the municipal court clerk who assumes it. R. 1:9-1 indicates that the court clerk may issue a subpoena, but makes no provision for service by the court clerk nor does it give the clerk the authority to excuse any witness absent instructions from the municipal court judge. The municipal court clerk should not become involved in the preparation of the State's case. " See N.J. Municipal Court Clerks' Manual, §2.3, pp. 69-70 (A.O.C. 1985) which states:

"The municipal prosecutor has the responsibility for determining what witnesses he wants and of preparing his own subpoenas. However, if the municipal prosecutor lacks secretarial help, court personnel may assistin typing the subpoenas." State v Prickett 240 NJ Super at 145. However, the
court should not ever act as the prosecutor's assistant. The court must be neutral.

If the state is not prepared, the charges should be dismissed or state sanctioned. Because the State is the municipal prosecutor's client, a failure to discharge the obligations of his office is a violation of a prosecutor's professional responsibility to represent the client diligently. When a prosecutor has available relevant evidence bearing on a prosecution, and the prosecutor's failure to present that evidence in the course of trial results in acquittal, that prosecutor has not diligently discharged his or her duty to prepare and present the State's case. Furthermore, when the failure to prepare for trial and present relevant evidence prejudices the State's case, the prosecutor's deviation from that duty may be so severe as to constitute gross negligence. Matter of Segal 130 NJ 468 (1992) Furthermore, "delay occasioned by the courts must be charged against the State, not the defendant." State v Perkins, 219 NJ Super. 121, 127 (Law Div 1987). "The court is one part of our tripartite system of government. Its failures cannot be permitted to injure a defendant who had nothing to do with them and no control over them." Id. at 127.

CONCLUSION
DWI and Drug related offenses carry substantial penalties which will follow someone for the rest of their life. The space limits of this article do not
allow detailed explanation of the extensive caselaw on DWI and Narcotics. Drug law and other defenses are explained in greater details in other
articles on www.njlaws.com. Call 732-572-0500 to schedule a confidential consultation.

New Speeding Fines

The schedule of speeding fines that take effect with introduction of 65-mph speed limit. The fines for those driving between 1 mph and 9 mph above the speed limit are unchanged. Unless otherwise specified, payable amount is for all speed zones:
1-9 mph above limit (not construction zone): $77

1-9 mph above limit (construction zone): $132

10-14 mph above limit (not construction zone or less than 65 mph): $87

10-14 mph above limit (construction zone or 65 mph zone): $152

15-19 mph above limit (not construction zone or less than 65 mph): $97

15-19 mph above limit (construction zone or 65 mph zone): $172

20-24 mph above limit: $192

25-29 mph above limit: $212

30-34 mph above limit: $232

35-39 mph above limit: $252

40-44 mph above limit: $272

Consequences of a Criminal Guilty Plea

1. You will have to appear in open court and tell the judge what you did that makes you guilty of the particular offense(s)

2. Do you understand that if you plead guilty:

a. You will have a criminal record

b. You may go to Jail or Prison.

c. You will have to pay Fines and Court Costs.

3. If you are on Probation, you will have to submit to random drug and urine testing. If you violate Probation, you often go to jail.

4. In indictable matters, you will be required to provide a DNA sample, which could be used by law enforcement for the investigation of criminal activity, and pay for the cost of testing.

5. You must pay restitution if the court finds there is a victim who has suffered a loss and if the court finds that you are able or will be able in the future to pay restitution.

6. If you are a public office holder or employee, you can be required to forfeit your office or job by virtue of your plea of guilty.

7. If you are not a United States citizen or national, you may be deported by virtue of your plea of guilty.

8. You must wait 5-10 years to expunge a first offense. 2C:52-3

9. You could be put on Probation.

10. In Drug Cases, a mandatory DEDR penalty of $500-$1,000, and lose your driver's license for 6 months - 2years. You must pay a Law Enforcement Officers Training and Equipment Fund penalty of $30.

11. You may be required to do Community Service.

12. You must pay a minimum Violent Crimes Compensation Board assessment of $50 ($100 minimum if you are convicted of a crime of violence) for each count to which you plead guilty.

13. You must pay a $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund assessment for each conviction.

14. If you are being sentenced to probation, you must pay a fee of up to $25 per month for the term of probation.

15. You lose the presumption against incarceration in future cases. 2C:44-1

16. You may lose your right to vote.

The defense of a person charged with a criminal offense is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client accused of a criminal offense.

Jail for Crimes and Disorderly Conduct:

If someone pleads Guilty or is found Guilty of a criminal offense, the following is the statutory Prison/Jail terms.

NJSA 2C: 43-8 (1) In the case of a crime of the first degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between 10 years and 20 years;

(2) In the case of a crime of the second degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between five years and 10 years;

(3) In the case of a crime of the third degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between three years and five years;

(4) In the case of a crime of the fourth degree, for a specific term which shall be fixed by the court and shall not exceed 18 months.

2C:43-3 Fines have been increased recently! 2C:43-3. Fines and Restitutions. A person who has been convicted of an offense may be sentenced to pay a fine, to make restitution, or both, such fine not to exceed:

a. (1) $200,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the first degree;

(2) $150,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the second degree;

b. (1) $15,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the third degree;

(2) $10,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the fourth degree;

c. $1,000.00, when the conviction is of a disorderly persons offense;

d. $500.00, when the conviction is of a petty disorderly persons offense;

If facing any criminal charge, retain an experienced attorney immediately to determine you rights and obligations to the court.

Hiring an Attorney to Reduce License Suspensions at Motor Vehicle Services-MVC/DMV Hearings

By Kenneth Vercammen If a driver in New Jersey receives too many points after traffic violations, the Motor Vehicle Commission or "MVC" [formerly the Division of Motor Vehicles or "DMV"], will mail the driver a Scheduled Suspension Notice. The MVC/DMV notice will set forth the date the suspension is scheduled to start as well as the length of suspension. In addition, if you received a moving violation ticket while your drivers license was suspended, the MVC/DMV usually also schedules a suspension. If you receive a Scheduled Suspension Notice, it is important to immediately sit down with an experienced Criminal/Traffic Attorney to discuss possible ways to reduce the suspension.
A written request for hearing must be served on the MVC/DMV. If the written request for hearing is not received prior to the scheduled suspension, the MVC/DMV will automatically suspend your driver's license for the maximum period permitted.

Hearings are generally held in Trenton, Eatontown, Mahwah, and Deptford. Hiring an attorney to reduce license suspension often ranges in costs between $900.00-$1,500.00. There is no Public Defender or free attorney in MVC/DMV hearings. After you retain an attorney, he or she will usually serve a written "Opposition to Suspension AND REQUEST FOR ALJ HEARING." Your attorney will request a hearing on any proposed suspensions or other administrative actions. Demand will be made that the Motor Vehicle Commission/Division of Motor Vehicles provide your attorney with discovery pursuant to the New Jersey Administrative Code, NJAC 1:1-1 et seq. and NJAC 1:13-10. Your attorney¹s letter needs to set forth legal issues and defenses he or she intends on raising at the hearing.


DEFENSES

A valid suspension of a driver's license cannot be effectuated in the absence of a written notice to the licensee at his or her last known address. This notice must recite the fact that the suspension will take place and provide the date of commencement of the suspension. State v. Kindler 191 N.J. Super. 358,360 (Law Div 1983). Failure to appear for a summons is not a substitute for the written notice required by the statute, Id at 361.

The MVC/DMV, prior to suspending a license or taking specific action against a driver, must mail a notice to the driver informing them of the proposed suspension or any other action. The proposed action to be taken against any licensee by the MVC/DMV becomes effective on the date set forth on the notice except when otherwise specified. Such is the case unless the licensee or his/her attorney makes a request, in writing, for a hearing within 25 days from the date of notice. New Jersey Administrative Code (NJAC)13:19-1.2.

Under NJAC 13:19-1.2, the MVC/DMV should require a prehearing conference with a MVC/DMV employee, or transmit the matter to the Office of Administrative Law for a hearing pursuant to NJAC 1:1. If the parties cannot reach a resolution, the matter will be submitted to the Office of Administrative Law for a hearing. NJAC 13:19-1.8(d). The motor vehicle statute, NJSA 39:3-40, is quasi-criminal and penal in nature, and must be strictly construed against the State. State vs. Churchdale-Leasing Inc., 115 N.J. 83, 102, 557 A. 2d 277 (1989). The word conviction, as it is used in NJSA 39:3-40, refers only to a plea or a finding of guilt in a court of competent jurisdiction and not to an order of suspension entered by the MVC/DMV as the result of an administrative proceeding. State vs. Conte, 245 NJ Super. 629 (Law Div. 1990).

Generally, an attorney can only reduce the suspension period, not eliminating suspension entirely. However, it is often important to reduce suspension time to save a job or a career. The following details the length of suspensions if no hearing is requested in writing.

N.J.A.C. 13:19-10.2 Point Accumulation; period of suspension

(a) The Director shall, except for good cause, suspend a person's license to operate a motor vehicle and/or motorized bicycle in accordance with the following schedule:


POINTS ACCUMULATED PERIOD OF SUSPENSION

12 to 15 points in a period of two years or less; 30 days 16 to 18 points in a period of two years or less; 60 days 19 to 21 points in a period of two years or less; 90 days 22 to 24 points in a period of two years or less; 120 days 25 to 27 points in a period of two years or less; 150 days 28 or more points in a period of two years or less; not less than 180 days

15 to 18 points in a period greater than two years; 30 days 19 to 22 points in a period greater than two years; 60 days 23 to 26 points in a period greater than two years; 90 days 27 to 30 points in a period greater than two years; 120 days 31 to 35 points in a period greater than two years; 150 days 36 or more points in a period greater than two years; no less than 180 days 12 to 14 points in a period greater than two years; 30 days

(b) For good cause shown, the Director may in his discretion permit a person to attend a driver improvement course of the Motor Vehicle Commission/Division of Motor Vehicles in total or partial satisfaction of a period of suspension imposed under (a) noted above. In exercising his or her discretion, the Director shall consider the person's driving record, prior warnings, driver improvement school attendance, maturity, and any other aggravating or mitigating factors.

Protect your Rights. Before you plea guilty and face potentially thousands of dollars in fees and surcharges, speak with an attorney who is experienced in handling these matters.

Consequences of a Criminal Guilty Plea

1. You will have to appear in open court and tell the judge what you did that makes you guilty of the particular offense(s)

2. Do you understand that if you plead guilty:

a. You will have a criminal record

b. You may go to Jail or Prison.

c. You will have to pay Fines and Court Costs.

3. If you are on Probation, you will have to submit to random drug and urine testing. If you violate Probation, you often go to jail.

4. In indictable matters, you will be required to provide a DNA sample, which could be used by law enforcement for the investigation of criminal activity, and pay for the cost of testing.

5. You must pay restitution if the court finds there is a victim who has suffered a loss and if the court finds that you are able or will be able in the future to pay restitution.

6. If you are a public office holder or employee, you can be required to forfeit your office or job by virtue of your plea of guilty.

7. If you are not a United States citizen or national, you may be deported by virtue of your plea of guilty.

8. You must wait 5-10 years to expunge a first offense. 2C:52-3

9. You could be put on Probation.

10. In Drug Cases, a mandatory DEDR penalty of $500-$1,000, and lose your driver's license for 6 months - 2years. You must pay a Law Enforcement Officers Training and Equipment Fund penalty of $30.

11. You may be required to do Community Service.

12. You must pay a minimum Violent Crimes Compensation Board assessment of $50 ($100 minimum if you are convicted of a crime of violence) for each count to which you plead guilty.

13. You must pay a $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund assessment for each conviction.

14. If you are being sentenced to probation, you must pay a fee of up to $25 per month for the term of probation.

15. You lose the presumption against incarceration in future cases. 2C:44-1

16. You may lose your right to vote.

The defense of a person charged with a criminal offense is not impossible. There are a number of viable defenses and arguments which can be pursued to achieve a successful result. Advocacy, commitment, and persistence are essential to defending a client accused of a criminal offense.

Jail for Crimes and Disorderly Conduct:

If someone pleads Guilty or is found Guilty of a criminal offense, the following is the statutory Prison/Jail terms.

NJSA 2C: 43-8 (1) In the case of a crime of the first degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between 10 years and 20 years;

(2) In the case of a crime of the second degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between five years and 10 years;

(3) In the case of a crime of the third degree, for a specific term of years which shall be fixed by the court and shall be between three years and five years;

(4) In the case of a crime of the fourth degree, for a specific term which shall be fixed by the court and shall not exceed 18 months.

2C:43-3 Fines have been increased recently! 2C:43-3. Fines and Restitutions. A person who has been convicted of an offense may be sentenced to pay a fine, to make restitution, or both, such fine not to exceed:

a. (1) $200,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the first degree;

(2) $150,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the second degree;

b. (1) $15,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the third degree;

(2) $10,000.00 when the conviction is of a crime of the fourth degree;

c. $1,000.00, when the conviction is of a disorderly persons offense;

d. $500.00, when the conviction is of a petty disorderly persons offense;

If facing any criminal charge, retain an experienced attorney immediately to determine you rights and obligations to the court.