Protect Your License From Suspension
Multiple traffic tickets can quickly add up to costly fines and can result in a license suspension or revocation. Traffic violations can also raise the cost of your insurance and may even lead to the cancellation of an insurance policy. At Jeffrey L. Hersh, Attorney at Law, we defend the rights of traffic court clients across New York and Connecticut from our White Plains office.
Experienced Help For Traffic Violations
Mr. Hersh is an experienced lawyer for traffic violations in Westchester, Putnam and Fairfield counties. He is a strategic, professional and efficient litigator who will fight to get you the best possible outcome for your case. Mr. Hersh is familiar with practice and procedure within the local courts and has extensive experience working with traffic laws of New York and Connecticut.
We assist clients with a broad range of traffic offenses, including those related to:
- Moving violations
- Speeding tickets
- Careless and reckless driving
- Cellphone and texting violations
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license
- Driver assessment fees
A Quick Response For Questions
We have consistently heard from clients that their previous attorneys did not return their calls or get back to them in a timely manner. At our law firm, we update our clients with every new development and pride ourselves on our quick response time. We use an online case management system to keep our clients updated and informed of their case status and responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traffic Violations
Clients throughout Westchester, Putnam and Fairfield counties often have pressing questions about traffic violation procedures and consequences.
Can I contest a traffic ticket in New York, and how does the process work?
Yes, you have the right to contest any traffic ticket in New York rather than simply paying the fine and accepting the consequences. The process begins by pleading not guilty either online, by mail or in person before the specified deadline on your ticket. Once you enter a not guilty plea, the court will schedule a hearing where you can present your defense before a judge or hearing officer.
During the hearing, the issuing officer must present evidence supporting the violation, and you have the opportunity to cross-examine them and present your own evidence.
How do points on my license affect me, and can they be removed?
New York’s point system assigns different point values to various traffic violations, with more serious offenses carrying higher point totals. Accumulating 11 points within 18 months results in automatic license suspension, while reaching six points triggers a driver responsibility assessment fee of at least $300 annually for three years. Points remain on your driving record for 18 months from the conviction date, not the violation date.
However, points can be reduced through the Point and Insurance Reduction Program, which allows drivers to subtract up to four points by completing an approved defensive driving course. This course can be taken once every 18 months and provides both point reduction and insurance discounts. Additionally, challenging tickets in court and achieving dismissals or reductions to nonmoving violations can prevent points from being added to your record entirely.
What are my options if I cannot attend my court date for a traffic violation?
Missing your scheduled court date typically results in a default conviction and additional penalties, but you have several options to address this situation. You can request an adjournment before your court date by contacting the court clerk and explaining your circumstances, though approval is not guaranteed and may require documentation such as medical records or work schedules.
If you have already missed your court date, you can file a motion to vacate the default judgment. Success in this area, however, requires demonstrating a reasonable excuse for your absence and a worthwhile defense to the underlying charges. An attorney can represent you in court even when you cannot personally appear, handling negotiations and presenting your defense.
Arrange Your Free Consultation Today
Losing your ability to drive can make it difficult to get to work, transport your children or manage many aspects of your life. We will review your case and work to minimize the penalties and restore your driving privileges. We have Spanish translation services available. Call our White Plains office now at 203-769-1090 or 914-305-3155 or email our law firm to start taking control of your case.