What happens if you get a traffic ticket in New York?

When you get a traffic ticket, you may think the simplest way to deal with it is just to pay it and move on. Doing this is an admission of guilt, however, and this can bring more complication and serious consequences than you expect. Before you make any choices regarding how to deal with your traffic ticket or moving violation, you may want to learn about the options available to you. 

Traffic violations can lead to suspension of your license, points on your record, increased insurance rates and more. If you drive for a living, it can impact your ability to continue with your job. Fighting back against a traffic violation may be in your interests, and you don’t have to do it alone. It may help to work with an experienced attorney to protect your right to drive and mitigate the penalties you are facing.

After a ticket

After receiving a ticket in New York, you can choose to simply pay the ticket, or you can contest the ticket. Paying the fine is essentially a guilty plea, or you can plead not guilty, and an administrative law judge will hear your case. You will have the opportunity to present witnesses and evidence that supports your claim that the ticket is valid for some reason.

An Administrative Law Judge will hear your case, decide if you are guilty or not guilty, and determine any fines if guilty. At this hearing, you can present evidence that supports your case, and you have the right to have an attorney present. You have a limited amount of time to decide what you want to do after getting a ticket. Failure to act within a certain amount of time can result in the suspension of your license. 

Your interests at stake

If you request a hearing during which you plan to contest your ticket, you will benefit from having the support and guidance of an attorney who knows New York law and understands how you navigate this process. With your interests at stake, you will benefit from having a knowledgeable ally on your side.

After getting a ticket, you may want to seek an assessment of your case to understand the exact options available to you. Paying a ticket can lead to more complications and serious consequences than you expect, and it may be better to request a hearing and keep this violation of your record.