Getting a traffic ticket is not a pleasant experience. However, it is important to understand the traffic court process in New York if you want to contest a ticket or pay a fine. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to expect when you receive a traffic ticket in New York.
Step 1: Receiving the Ticket
When a police officer stops you for a traffic violation, they will issue you a ticket. This ticket will contain information such as the date and time of the violation, the location, the violation code, and the fine amount. It is important to read the ticket carefully and understand the charges against you.
Step 2: Responding to the Ticket
Once you receive the ticket, you have two options: plead guilty and pay the fine or plead not guilty and contest the ticket. If you decide to plead guilty, you can pay the fine online, by mail, or in person. However, if you decide to contest the ticket, you must respond within 15 days of receiving the ticket.
Step 3: Pre-Trial Conference
If you decide to contest the ticket, you will receive a notice of your pre-trial conference date. This is a meeting between you, the prosecutor, and the judge to discuss the case. You can either appear in person or have an attorney appear on your behalf.
During the pre-trial conference, the prosecutor will present evidence against you, and you will have the opportunity to present your defense. The judge may also offer a plea bargain, which is a reduced charge or penalty in exchange for a guilty plea.
Step 4: Trial
If you cannot reach a plea agreement during the pre-trial conference, your case will proceed to trial. At trial, you and the prosecutor will present evidence and arguments to the judge. The judge will then make a decision on whether you are guilty or not guilty.
Step 5: Sentencing
If you are found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include a fine, points on your driver’s license, or even jail time. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you may be able to appeal the decision to a higher court.
Step 6: Paying the Fine
If you are found guilty and are ordered to pay a fine, you must pay the fine by the date specified by the judge. Failure to pay the fine may result in additional penalties such as a suspension of your driver’s license or even an arrest warrant.
Step 7: Dealing with Points on Your License
If you are found guilty of a traffic violation in New York, you may receive points on your driver’s license. The number of points you receive depends on the type of violation. Accumulating too many points within a specific time period can result in a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
If you are concerned about the number of points on your license, you may be able to take a defensive driving course to reduce the number of points or even have points removed from your license.
Step 8: Hiring an Attorney
If you are facing serious traffic charges, it is recommended that you hire an attorney who is experienced in traffic law. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you, negotiate a plea bargain, represent you in court, and advise you on the best course of action.
As a legal team, we at Arthur L. Pressman, Attorney at Law can provide valuable assistance in understanding the traffic court process in New York. Our team can offer legal advice, develop a defense strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, represent you in court, and advise on the possibility of appealing a decision. With our extensive knowledge and experience in traffic law, we can help you navigate the complexities of the traffic court process and work towards achieving a favorable outcome for your case.