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Speeding Tickets

Speeding Ticket Attorney in Fort Lee

Your Trusted Defense for Speeding Tickets in Fort Lee, NJ

Facing a speeding ticket in Fort Lee, NJ, can be daunting, but at Gannes & Musico, LLP, we’re here to help alleviate your stress. Our team of dedicated speeding ticket attorneys in Fort Lee provides strong representation tailored to your needs. With over 30 years of combined experience, we know the local laws inside and out, ensuring you receive the best possible defense.

Expanding on our local expertise, Fort Lee presents unique traffic challenges due to its proximity to the George Washington Bridge and high traffic volumes during rush hours. Our attorneys are well-versed in Fort Lee's traffic patterns and the common mistakes law enforcement may make. This local insight allows us to craft a nuanced defense strategy that takes into account the particulars of each case, maximizing the possibility of dismissing or reducing your ticket.

Facing a speeding ticket charge? We offer free consultations. Call (877) 803-2603 or contact us online to speak with a speeding ticket attorney in Fort Lee today.

Understanding Speeding Laws in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the laws governing speeding are outlined in the New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A.) § 39:4-98. This statute establishes the basic speed limits throughout the state, including:

  • 25 mph in any business or residential district 
  • 35 mph in any suburban business or residential district

The law also mandates that motorists adjust their speed for appropriate road conditions, such as when approaching an intersection or a hill crest. The severity of a speeding charge is determined by how far over the speed limit you were allegedly driving. The higher the speed, the more serious the charge and the more severe the penalties. 

A knowledgeable speeding ticket attorney in Fort Lee will meticulously analyze the specific statute under which you were charged to build a strong defense.

Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

To secure a conviction for a speeding violation, the prosecution must prove two key elements:

  • Operation of a Motor Vehicle: The state must prove that you were driving the vehicle at the time of the alleged offense.
  • Speed: The state must prove, typically through the testimony of the police officer and evidence from a radar gun, LIDAR device, or by pacing your vehicle, that you were driving over the posted speed limit.

The prosecution's case relies heavily on the testimony of the arresting officer and the accuracy of their speed-measuring device. As a seasoned speeding ticket attorney in Fort Lee, we will challenge the government's evidence at every turn, scrutinizing the methods used to collect the evidence and questioning the credibility of their witnesses.

Classifications of the Offense in Fort Lee

In New Jersey, a speeding ticket is a traffic violation, not a criminal offense, but the penalties vary based on the speed and are a key part of the prosecution's case.

  • 1-14 mph over the limit: 2 points on your license and a fine of $85 to $95.
  • 15-29 mph over the limit: 4 points on your license and a fine of $105 to $220.
  • 30 mph or more over the limit: 5 points on your license and a fine of $240 to $260.

It is also important to note that a speeding charge can be elevated to a more serious offense, such as reckless driving, if the officer observes other unsafe driving behaviors. These offenses are considered criminal offenses and carry more severe penalties. 

A knowledgeable Fort Lee speeding ticket lawyer will work to prevent any enhancement of your charges and will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life.

Penalties and Consequences of a Speeding Conviction in New Jersey

The direct legal penalties for a speeding conviction in New Jersey are steep and depend on how fast you were allegedly driving. 

These can include:

  • Fines and Surcharges: Fines can range from $85 to over $260, depending on the speed. If you accumulate six or more points within a three-year period, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) will assess mandatory annual surcharges. These are additional fees on top of the original fine and can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
  • MVA Points: A conviction will result in a specific number of points being assessed against your license, ranging from 2 to 5 points. Accumulating 12 or more points in any timeframe will result in a mandatory license suspension by the MVC.
  • License Suspension/Revocation: Accumulating too many points can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges.
  • Increased Insurance Rates: A conviction for speeding will appear on your permanent driving record. Auto insurers will inevitably notice the conviction and adjust your rate accordingly.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for a traffic violation can follow you for the rest of your life, making it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a conviction for a serious traffic offense can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

The New Jersey Criminal Defense Process for Speeding Charges

Navigating the criminal justice system in New Jersey for a speeding ticket can be confusing and overwhelming. Our firm provides a clear, step-by-step guide and will be with you at every stage, ensuring you understand your rights and your options. 

We are an assertive Fort Lee speeding ticket lawyer who will be your unwavering advocate from your first court appearance to the final resolution of your case.

  1. Receiving a Ticket: The process begins with a traffic ticket from law enforcement or a camera. You must respond by pleading guilty or not guilty.
  2. Trial Date: If you plead not guilty, a court date will be scheduled in municipal court for your trial.
  3. Discovery: We will obtain and review all the evidence the prosecution intends to use against you, including police reports, to find any weaknesses or inconsistencies.
  4. Pre-Trial Motions and Plea Negotiations: Based on our review of the evidence, we may file pre-trial motions to challenge illegally obtained evidence. We will also engage in negotiations with the prosecutor, seeking a favorable agreement, such as a reduction of charges to a non-point offense.
  5. Trial and Sentencing: If a plea agreement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. If a conviction occurs, we will present mitigating evidence and arguments during sentencing to seek the most lenient sentence possible.

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What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?

Gannes & Musico, LLP is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.

  • We Provide Free Case Evaluations to Discuss ALL Your Options
  • We Have Achieved Thousands of "Not Guilty" Verdicts for Our Clients
  • Our Firm Is the Winner of the Avvo Clients' Choice Award
  • We've Provided Over 30 Years of Aggressive Traffic Defense

Building a Strategic Defense

Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. 

As a seasoned Fort Lee speeding ticket lawyer, we will leverage every possible defense, including:

  • Challenging the Officer's Testimony: The officer's testimony is the primary evidence in most traffic cases. We can cross-examine the officer on the details of the traffic stop and look for inconsistencies in their testimony.
  • Questioning the Accuracy of the Device: We can challenge the accuracy of the radar gun or LIDAR device used to measure your speed. These devices must be properly calibrated and operated by a trained officer. If the device was not properly maintained or if the officer's training was not up-to-date, we can argue the reading is unreliable.
  • Mistaken Identity: We can argue that you have been misidentified as the person who was driving the vehicle. This defense is particularly strong when the identification is based on a single, fleeting observation.
  • Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We will argue that the evidence presented is not sufficient to meet this high standard, either because the witness testimony is inconsistent or the evidence is flawed.
  • Necessity: We can argue that you were speeding due to an emergency or to avoid harm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I get a speeding ticket in Fort Lee?

If you receive a speeding ticket, the best step is to contact a speeding ticket lawyer right away. At Gannes & Musico, LLP, we can review the details of your case, explain your options, and build a defense aimed at reducing or dismissing the charges.

Why should I hire a speeding ticket lawyer?

Hiring a lawyer ensures that every possible defense is explored, deadlines are met, and your case is presented effectively. Legal representation often leads to reduced penalties, dismissed tickets, and less long-term impact on your driving record.

How many points can I get for speeding in Fort Lee?

The number of points depends on how far over the speed limit you were driving. Accumulating too many points can result in a suspended license, so it’s important to fight tickets when possible.

Will a speeding ticket affect my insurance?

Yes, insurance companies often raise rates after a speeding conviction. By contesting the ticket, you may avoid or reduce these financial consequences.

Do I have to appear in court for my speeding ticket?

In many cases, your attorney can appear on your behalf, saving you time and stress. We will advise you if your personal appearance is necessary.

Why Choose Us for Handling Your Speeding Tickets

At Gannes & Musico, LLP, we stand out for our client-focused service and impressive track record. We offer:

  • Proven Success: Achieving numerous 'not guilty' verdicts and resolving countless summonses daily.
  • Personalized Attention: Tailoring our strategic defense to each unique case ensures that your specific needs are addressed.
  • Comprehensive Local Knowledge: Expertise in Fort Lee’s court systems and traffic regulations enhances our ability to represent you effectively.
  • Free Case Evaluations: Understand your legal options upfront without any financial risk.

Engaging a local attorney familiar with the Fort Lee Municipal Court also means that we understand the typical stances of the prosecutors and judges you might encounter. This advantage enables us to negotiate effectively and achieve reductions or dismissals that can prevent points from being added to your license, safeguarding your driving privileges and financial well-being.

Contact Us for Expert Legal Guidance

If you're dealing with a speeding ticket in Fort Lee, NJ, let Gannes & Musico, LLP help you navigate the complexities of traffic law. Our skilled attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your driving record and minimize the impact of your ticket. 

Call us today at (877) 803-2603 or reach out online to schedule your no-obligation consultation and start taking control of your situation.

Case Results

More than 10,000 Drivers Helped Every Year
  • Not Guilty Child Seatbelt Ticket

    Our client was charged with a child seatbelt violation. Facing three points and fines, our client was found not guilty, avoiding both penalties.

  • Not Guilty Failure to Yield

    Failure to Yield, facing 3 points and fines. He was found not guilty in court, avoiding both penalties.

  • Not Guilty Cell Phone Violation

    Cell phone violation. Facing fines and 5 points, he was found not guilty, avoiding both penalties.

  • Not Guilty Failure to Use Signal

    Charged with failure to signal. Facing two points and fines, he was found not guilty, avoiding both penalties.

  • Not Guilty Illegal Passing

    Illegal Pass charge, carrying three points and fines. The violation was reduced to Jaywalking, which carries 0 points.

  • Not Guilty Disobey Traffic Device

    Disobey Traffic Device charge, facing two points and fines. The violation was reduced to a no-point parking violation.
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