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Reckless Driving Leveraging More Than Two Decades of Experience to Protect Your Future

Reckless Driving Lawyer in New Jersey

Proven Defense & Personalized Attention for Reckless Driving Charges

At Roberts & Teeter, LLC, we understand the serious implications of a reckless driving charge in New Jersey. With us, you're not just another case number. Our personalized approach ensures you receive focused attention and strategic defense from our primary attorneys, Michael Brett Roberts and Matthew Teeter. 

As a New Jersey-based boutique law firm focusing on criminal defense, we are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process, protecting your rights and future. Navigating a reckless driving charge without knowledgeable support can be daunting, but our team is here to simplify the process. 

We take pride in offering a thorough understanding of each client's unique circumstances, ensuring all legal strategies are tailored to address individual needs effectively.

A dedicated reckless driving lawyer in New Jersey is available 24/7 to protect your rights. We offer affordable legal services and free consultations. Call (732) 607-5553 now or contact us online to get started.

Understanding New Jersey's Reckless Driving Laws

New Jersey Statute § 39:4-96 defines reckless driving. It's a broad definition that grants law enforcement significant discretion, encompassing a wide range of dangerous actions. 

A person is guilty of reckless driving if they drive a motor vehicle:

  • Heedlessly;
  • In willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others; AND
  • In a manner so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property.

This definition is intentionally broad, allowing prosecutors and judges to apply it to various scenarios that demonstrate a "reckless disregard for the consequences of your actions." 

It is a higher standard than mere negligence (carelessness or imprudence), meaning the prosecutor must prove you acted with a conscious awareness of the risks and chose to operate the vehicle dangerously anyway. This subjective nature is precisely why the assistance of a reckless driving lawyer in New Jersey is vital.

Behaviors That May Constitute Reckless Driving:

While speeding alone might typically be a traffic infraction, when combined with other dangerous maneuvers, it can escalate to reckless driving. Common examples of behavior that often lead to reckless driving charges include:

  • Excessive Speeding
  • Aggressive Driving
  • Driving Under the Influence (DWI)
  • Street Racing
  • Ignoring Traffic Signals and Signs
  • Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road
  • Driving on a Sidewalk or Shoulder
  • Extreme Distracted Driving
  • Eluding a Police Officer

Penalties for Reckless Driving Convictions in New Jersey

A conviction for reckless driving in New Jersey carries substantial penalties that extend far beyond the initial fine and can have significant long-term impacts on your finances, driving record, and personal future. As a criminal offense, a conviction will result in a criminal offense record.

Direct Penalties:

  • Fines:
    • First Offense: $50 to $200.
    • Second or Subsequent Offense: $100 to $500.
    • Double Fines: Fines are doubled if the offense occurred in a designated 65 MPH zone, a highway construction or repair zone, or a designated safe corridor.
  • Jail Time:
    • First Offense: Up to 60 days in county or municipal jail.
    • Second or Subsequent Offense: Up to 3 months (90 days) in county or municipal jail. While jail time may not always be imposed for a first offense, it is a very real possibility, and a judge has the discretion to order it. The actual likelihood often depends on the severity of the act, the presence of an accident or injury, and your prior driving record.
  • Points on Driving Record: 5 demerit points will be assessed to your New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) driving record. This is a significant number of points for a single offense, immediately putting you at risk of other administrative actions by the MVC.
  • Driver Surcharges (New Jersey Surcharge System): If you accumulate 6 or more points on your driving record within a three-year period, the MVC will assess mandatory annual surcharges. These are additional fees on top of the original fine.
  • Driver's License Suspension/Revocation: While N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 itself does not specify a mandatory license suspension, other New Jersey laws allow a judge to suspend a person's license for a reckless driving conviction, especially if it indicates a willful violation of the motor vehicle laws.
  • Points-Based Suspension: Accumulating 12 or more points in any timeframe will result in a mandatory license suspension by the MVC. A 5-point reckless driving conviction puts you very close to this threshold.
  • Discretionary Suspension: A judge may impose a suspension of up to 90 days for a first offense reckless driving, and longer for subsequent offenses or if the conduct was particularly egregious or resulted in an accident.
  • Probation: A judge may order a period of probation (up to 1 year for misdemeanors), with conditions such as community service, safe driving classes, or fines.

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What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?

Roberts & Teeter, LLC is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.

  • Committed to Communicating with Clients
    The lawyers at Roberts & Teeter, LLC are dedicated to keeping clients informed about their cases.
  • Unique & Personal Representation
    Our clients are not handed off to an associate; they work exclusively with the partners of the firm.
  • Exclusive Focus on Criminal Defense
    Roberts & Teeter, LLC only handles matters and cases associated with criminal defense.

Why You Should Fight Your Reckless Driving Charge

Simply paying a reckless driving ticket or pleading guilty is an admission of guilt. While it may seem like the simplest solution, it’s rarely the best one. It is an admission of guilt with numerous unforeseen and severe consequences that often outweigh the initial fine. There are many compelling reasons to challenge your charge with the help of a New Jersey reckless driving attorney.

  • Avoid a Criminal Offense Record: Preventing a criminal misdemeanor conviction from appearing on your permanent record is paramount for your future employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
  • Protect Your Driver's License: Avoid potential license suspension by keeping your point total low (5 points for reckless driving is substantial) and by arguing against discretionary suspensions.
  • Save Money on Insurance: Substantial increases in auto insurance premiums can cost thousands of dollars over several years. Fighting the charge can save you this significant financial burden.
  • Avoid Jail Time: Even for a first offense, jail time is a possibility. A strong defense can prevent incarceration.
  • Challenge the Evidence: Law enforcement officers can make mistakes in their observations or procedures, and their speed detection equipment may be improperly calibrated or used. A skilled reckless driving lawyer in New Jersey knows how to scrutinize the evidence.
  • Potential for Dismissal or Reduction: Many charges can be dismissed entirely if the officer's testimony is weak or if legal errors are found. Alternatively, your attorney can often negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense (e.g., careless driving or a non-moving violation), significantly mitigating the impact.

Our Legal Process for Reckless Driving Cases

When facing a reckless driving charge, the process can feel daunting. Here's what to expect when you work with us:

  • Initial Consultation: We assess the specifics of your case and provide clear guidance on the next steps. During this initial meeting, we will gather details about the incident, review any citations or legal documents you've received, and discuss potential outcomes and defense options. This consultation serves as the foundation for building a tailored legal strategy that considers every detail of your situation.
  • Investigation: Conduct a thorough evaluation of the evidence, potentially working with experts to build a robust defense. This phase involves collecting witness statements, accessing video or dashcam footage, and consulting traffic experts if needed. Our goal is to uncover any facts or inconsistencies that could support a reduction or dismissal of the charges against you.
  • Defense Strategy: We develop a personalized defense strategy tailored to your unique situation and goals. This can include challenging the prosecution's evidence, negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges, or preparing for trial if necessary. Our attorneys dedicate their efforts to achieving the best possible outcome, ensuring you understand each action we take on your behalf.
  • Representation in Court: We protect your rights and interests at every step, advocating vigorously on your behalf. Our strong presence in the courtroom and familiarity with local judges and prosecutors enable us to effectively argue your case. We prepare meticulously for each hearing or trial date, ensuring that all aspects of your defense are presented clearly and convincingly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reckless Driving in New Jersey

How is reckless driving different from careless driving?

Reckless driving involves a willful disregard for safety, while careless driving is unintentional but still dangerous. Reckless driving carries harsher penalties, including possible jail time. A lawyer may help argue for a downgrade to careless driving, which comes with lighter consequences.

Can a reckless driving charge be reduced?

Yes, charges can often be reduced through negotiation or by highlighting mitigating factors such as a clean driving history or participation in a defensive driving course. Our firm frequently seeks reductions to lesser offenses to protect your record and limit penalties.

Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?

It’s not considered a criminal offense but is a serious traffic violation. Even so, the penalties can be substantial and have lasting effects. We treat every reckless driving charge seriously and explore every legal option available.

Why should I hire a lawyer for a reckless driving charge?

A lawyer can help reduce or dismiss the charges, guide you through court procedures, and protect your rights. With legal representation, you're far more likely to avoid harsh penalties and long-term consequences.

Can out-of-state drivers be charged with reckless driving in New Jersey?

Yes, out-of-state drivers can be charged and face penalties in New Jersey. These charges may also impact your license and insurance in your home state. We represent both in-state and out-of-state clients facing traffic offenses in New Jersey.

Why Choose Roberts & Teeter

  • Exclusive Focus: Our firm practices exclusively in criminal law, ensuring a deep understanding of New Jersey's legal framework.
  • Personalized Representation: Our clients receive direct attention from experienced attorneys, not paralegals.
  • Strategic Collaboration: We work with experts to enhance defense strategies, such as private investigators and psychologists.
  • Client-Centric Approach: Free consultations and detailed communication keep you informed and supported throughout your legal journey. Our transparency means that you are always aware of your case status, and our supportive team is ready to address any concerns promptly.

Take Action Now: Secure Your Defense with Roberts & Teeter

Don’t navigate the complexities of a reckless driving charge alone. At Roberts & Teeter, we’re committed to standing by your side and providing the thorough, personalized defense you deserve. 

Contact us online today for a free consultation to discuss your case. Call us at (732) 607-5553 and take the first step toward a tailored defense strategy with our experienced attorneys in New Jersey.

Representation Aimed at Results

Aggressively Pursuing the Best Possible Outcome for Each Client
  • Received No Loss of License 2nd Driving While Intoxicated
  • Case Dismissed 4th Shoplifting Offense
  • Case Dismissed Aggravated Assault
  • Case Dismissed Aggravated Assault & Possession of a Weapon
  • DWI Charge Dismissed Driving While Intoxicated
    Experience Wins Cases

    With nearly two decades of combined experience the attorneys at Roberts & Teeter have what it takes to effectively fight your case and protect your future. 

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