Burlington County Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Reckless driving in Burlington County is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, carrying up to 60 days in jail, 5 points on your license, and significant fines. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience defending clients in Burlington County Municipal Courts. A skilled reckless driving lawyer Burlington County can challenge the state’s evidence and work to protect your driving privileges and future.
New Jersey Reckless Driving Law
In New Jersey, reckless driving is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 as driving “a vehicle heedlessly, in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others, in a manner so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property.” This broad definition covers a wide range of behaviors beyond just speeding, such as aggressive weaving, street racing, or ignoring traffic controls in dangerous conditions. The charge is a traffic offense, not a crime, but the consequences are severe. The statute’s language gives prosecutors significant discretion, making the specific facts of your case critical. A conviction results in a mandatory 5 insurance points also to the court penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Burlington County Municipal Courts | New Jersey Legislature.
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the exact law you are accused of violating is the first step in building a defense. You can review the full text of the New Jersey reckless driving statute (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96) on the official state legislature website. For local court procedures and contact information, visit the Burlington County Municipal Court directory provided by the New Jersey Courts.
Local Court Process for a Reckless Driving Charge
Your case will be heard in the Burlington County Municipal Court where the violation allegedly occurred, such as Mount Holly, Evesham, or Willingboro. The initial step is your arraignment, where you enter a plea. The prosecution must prove you acted with “willful or wanton disregard,” a higher standard than simple negligence. An aggressive driving defense lawyer Burlington County can file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence, such as an improper speed measurement or a traffic stop without reasonable suspicion. Many cases are resolved through negotiation before a trial is necessary.
- Receive your summons and note your court date and location.
- Consult with a defense attorney before your first court appearance.
- Your attorney will review the evidence, including the police report and any dash/body cam footage.
- Attend pre-trial conferences where your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for and attend a bench trial before a municipal court judge.
- If convicted, your attorney can argue for minimal penalties at sentencing or file an appeal to the Law Division.
Potential Penalties for a Reckless Driving Conviction
In Burlington County, a reckless driving conviction carries a penalty of up to 60 days in jail, a fine between $50 and $200, and a mandatory 5-point assessment on your New Jersey driving record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96) | Traffic Offense | Up to 60 days in jail | $50 – $200 | 5 points on NJ license | Increased insurance premiums, potential civil liability. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Burlington County Courts
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a focused approach to traffic defense. Our firm’s experience includes handling cases across the Burlington County Municipal Court system. We understand the local procedures and work diligently to protect our clients’ interests. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with admissions in New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and Washington D.C., providing a strategic perspective on building a defense.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of advocating for clients facing traffic offenses. We pursue every avenue to seek a positive resolution, which can include getting a reckless driving charge dismissed lawyer Burlington County clients trust. Strategies may involve challenging radar calibration, questioning the officer’s line of sight, or negotiating for a reduction to a non-points violation. Each case is unique, and we tailor our approach to the specific facts and circumstances you face.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Burlington County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Our firm is positioned to serve clients throughout Burlington County. If you need a reckless driving lawyer near Burlington County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. We are accessible to residents in communities like Mount Laurel, Medford, Moorestown, and Marlton. Meetings are held by appointment only to ensure we dedicate our full attention to your case.
Frequently Asked Questions (Reckless Driving in Burlington County)
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?
No. Reckless driving is classified as a serious traffic violation or “quasi-criminal” offense in New Jersey, not a crime. It is heard in Municipal Court, not Superior Court. However, the penalties, including potential jail time, make it essential to defend vigorously.
Can I get a reckless driving charge dismissed in Burlington County?
It depends on the evidence. A dismissal is possible if your attorney successfully challenges the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of the officer’s observations, or the calibration of speed-measuring devices. Pre-trial motions to suppress evidence are a common path toward getting charges reduced or dismissed.
How many points is reckless driving in NJ?
Five points. A conviction for N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 reckless driving adds 5 points to your New Jersey driving record. Accumulating 6 or more points within three years triggers a mandatory surcharge, and 12 or more points can lead to a license suspension.
Should I just plead guilty to get it over with?
No. Pleading guilty guarantees you will receive the full penalties, including 5 points, high fines, and possible jail time. Consulting with a reckless driving lawyer Burlington County first allows you to understand your options for fighting the charge or negotiating a better outcome, such as a reduction to a 2-point offense.
What is the difference between careless and reckless driving in NJ?
Careless driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97) is a less serious offense implying negligence without willful intent. It carries 2 points. Reckless driving requires proof of “willful or wanton disregard” for safety. The distinction is legally significant and often the basis for plea negotiations with a skilled aggressive driving defense lawyer Burlington County.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.
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