MUNICIPAL COURT LAW
Description
If you have a matter pending before any one of the 500+ municipal courts in New Jersey, we can help. Municipal court matters include the following:
- disposition of minor criminal offenses
- motor vehicle-related violations, such as speeding, auto accident and careless driving tickets
- violations of municipal ordinances
Many traffic and/or criminal charges can result in license suspension, substantial fines, points on your license, insurance company surcharges, and, possibly, jail time. We are aware of the impact that a New Jersey driving offense can have on your life, whether you live in the state or not, and we work hard to fight for your driving privileges.
Our firm's experienced attorneys assist with the following:
- reducing fines, penalties, and points
- preventing license suspension
- avoiding jail time
Helmer, Paul, Conley & Kasselman, P.A. is also experienced in defending drunk driving (DWI), drug possession (CDS), and other complicated municipal court matters.
Attorneys
Paralegals
Why Choose Us?
Helmer, Paul, Conley & Kasselman, P.A. defends thousands of people charged with municipal ordinance violations and motor vehicle offenses. Six former assistant county prosecutors (one of whom is a retired police officer) with over 175 years of combined criminal litigation experience create a formidable team unmatched in New Jersey. We know the strengths and weaknesses of our adversaries and their cases, and we will fight to uphold your rights in municipal court or against the Motor Vehicle Commission.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. Since the matter is only before municipal court and not the Superior Court, can I still be sentenced to jail time?
YES! The penalties for many of the offenses that fall within municipal court jurisdiction include the possibility of jail time.
- 2. If I get a traffic ticket and just ignore it, what can happen?
If you fail to pay the required fine for an offense that does not require you to appear in court, or if you fail to appear before the municipal court on the date scheduled for an offense that does require you to appear in person, the municipal court will probably issue a warrant for your arrest and suspend your driving privileges.
- 3. I received a letter from the Motor Vehicle Commission advising me that they will suspend my license. Can I request a hearing?
YES! Frequently you can avoid or shorten a license suspension by having a knowledgeable defense attorney argue your case at a hearing.
- 4. Can I appeal a municipal court conviction?
YES, if you file an appeal within 20 days of the court's decision.
- 5. Do I need a lawyer in municipal court if I am guilty?
Definitely. The municipal court has to find you guilty by evidence that convinces the court beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty. An attorney can also negotiate a dismissal of some of the charges or a reduction in the charges.
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