Driving Left of Center Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
A Driving Left of Center charge under N.J.S.A. 39:4-88.1 in Burlington County can lead to fines, points, and insurance hikes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these traffic violations in Mount Holly and surrounding courts. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses its experience to challenge the state’s evidence. Contact us for a 24/7 consultation.
What Is Driving Left of Center in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the offense of Driving Left of Center is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-88.1. The law prohibits a driver from operating a vehicle to the left of the center line of a roadway, except when permitted by official traffic control devices or when overtaking and passing another vehicle under rules governing such movement. This is a strict liability offense in many cases, meaning the state only needs to prove the act occurred, not that you intended to cross the line.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Mr. Sris, founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor with a deep understanding of how traffic statutes like N.J.S.A. 39:4-88.1 are applied and defended in local courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact statutory language, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-88.1 on the New Jersey Legislature website. For local court procedures and forms, visit the Burlington Vicinage section of the NJ Courts website.
The Burlington County Court Process for a Driving Left of Center Ticket
In Burlington County, a Driving Left of Center ticket is typically heard in the Mount Holly Municipal Court or another relevant local court. Prosecutors often rely on the officer’s testimony and report. An experienced Driving Left of Center lawyer Burlington County knows that challenging the officer’s observation, the road conditions, or the necessity of the maneuver can be effective.
- Receive Your Ticket & Plea: You will receive a traffic ticket specifying a court date. You must enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Conference: If you plead not guilty, a pre-trial conference may be scheduled where your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Motion Practice: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case if procedural errors exist.
- Trial: If no settlement is reached, a bench trial before a judge will be held. The officer will testify, and your attorney will cross-examine and present a defense.
- Verdict & Sentencing: The judge will render a verdict. If found guilty, the judge will impose fines, costs, and points.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Law Division of the Superior Court within 20 days.
Potential Penalties for Driving Left of Center in NJ
In Burlington County, a conviction for Driving Left of Center under N.J.S.A. 39:4-88.1 carries a fine of $50 to $200, plus court costs and surcharges that can total over $250.
| Offense | Classification | Fine | Motor Vehicle Points | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving Left of Center (N.J.S.A. 39:4-88.1) | Traffic Violation | $50 – $200 + costs | 2 points | Potential insurance premium increases; possible careless driving upgrade. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burlington County Traffic Case?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to each case. We have handled thousands of traffic matters across New Jersey. Our approach is direct: we analyze the state’s evidence, identify weaknesses, and build a defense strategy focused on protecting your driving record and finances. We serve clients in Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and throughout Burlington County.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results are unique to each case, our firm’s extensive history includes favorable resolutions in traffic matters. We work to have charges dismissed, points reduced, or fines minimized. An affordable driving left of center lawyer Burlington County from our team will give you a clear assessment of your situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact a Driving Left of Center Lawyer Near Burlington County
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Burlington County. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, I-295, and Route 130. If you need a Driving Left of Center lawyer Burlington County near Mount Holly or the Burlington County Courthouse, we can help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 455-5120
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Driving Left of Center a serious ticket in NJ?
Yes. While it is a traffic violation and not a crime, a conviction adds 2 points to your license, carries fines and costs, and will likely increase your car insurance rates for years.
Can I fight a Driving Left of Center ticket?
Yes. Defenses can include proving a road defect forced you left, showing you were avoiding an obstacle, or challenging the officer’s line of sight. An attorney can evaluate the specific facts of your case.
What if I caused an accident while left of center?
The penalties become more severe. You could face additional charges like careless driving and be liable for civil damages. It is critical to seek legal counsel immediately.
Should I just pay the ticket to avoid court?
No. Paying the ticket is an automatic guilty plea. You will receive the points and insurance consequences. Consulting with a lawyer first is always advisable to explore your options.
How much does a lawyer cost for this type of ticket?
It depends. Many attorneys offer flat fees for traffic defense. The cost is often less than the long-term increase in insurance premiums a conviction would cause.
Burlington County cases are handled by our New Jersey driving left of center practice, where the whole process is set out.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
DWI and traffic charges are heard first in the municipal court for the town where the stop occurred; appeals go to the Law Division of the county Superior Court. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 (driving while intoxicated) within N.J.S.A. Title 39, the motor vehicle and traffic code. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Driving Left of Center Lawyer in Bergen County, NJ · Driving Left of Center Lawyer in Hudson County, NJ · Driving Left of Center Attorney Monmouth County, NJ.