Failure to Obey a Police Officer Lawyer in Cumberland County, NJ
A charge for failure to obey a police officer in Cumberland County is a serious traffic offense under NJSA 39:4-57, carrying fines, points, and potential jail time. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing this charge in Bridgeton, Vineland, and Millville courts.
What Is Failure to Obey a Police Officer in New Jersey?
The offense of failure to obey a police officer is defined under New Jersey statute NJSA 39:4-57. This law makes it illegal for any person to willfully fail or refuse to comply with any lawful order or direction of any police officer invested by law with authority to direct, control, or regulate traffic. This is not a simple moving violation; it is a charge that directly challenges the authority of law enforcement and is treated seriously by the courts.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Cumberland Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Mr. Sris, the founder of our firm, is a former prosecutor with a deep understanding of how these charges are filed and prosecuted. This insight is critical for building an effective defense strategy for your failure to obey a police officer case in Cumberland County.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey statute: NJSA 39:4-57. For local court procedures and information, visit the Cumberland Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for a Failure to Obey Charge in Cumberland County
Your case for failure to obey a police officer will be heard in the Cumberland County Superior Court, located in Bridgeton. Prosecutors in this vicinage often seek the maximum penalties for charges they view as disrespecting police authority. The court process typically involves an initial arraignment, pre-trial conferences, and potentially a trial if a plea agreement cannot be reached.
- Receive Your Summons: You will receive a traffic ticket or summons specifying the charge under NJSA 39:4-57 and your court date at the Cumberland County Courthouse.
- Initial Appearance (Arraignment): You must appear in court to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. It is strongly advised to have an attorney present at this stage.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your lawyer will engage in negotiations with the municipal prosecutor to potentially reduce or dismiss the charge based on the evidence.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge. Your attorney will present your defense, cross-examine the officer, and argue for a favorable verdict.
Potential Penalties for Failure to Obey a Police Officer in NJ
In Cumberland County, a conviction for failure to obey a police officer under NJSA 39:4-57 carries significant penalties, including fines, license points, and possible jail time.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to Obey a Police Officer (NJSA 39:4-57) | Traffic Offense / Disorderly Persons Offense (if willful) | Up to 15 days in jail | $50 to $200+ | 2 motor vehicle points | Court costs, potential insurance surcharges, a permanent mark on your driving record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Cumberland County Traffic Case
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive and thorough representation. We understand that a charge like failure to obey a police officer can have lasting consequences, and we fight to protect your driving privileges and your record.
Our Approach to Your Defense
We begin every case by conducting a detailed investigation. We review the police report, any available dashcam or bodycam footage, and witness statements. We look for inconsistencies in the officer’s account, question whether the order was lawful and clearly communicated, and explore all procedural defenses. Our goal is to secure a favorable outcome, whether that is a dismissal, a reduction to a lesser offense, or a favorable verdict at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Cumberland County Traffic Defense Lawyers
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.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at courts throughout Cumberland County, including Bridgeton, Vineland, and Millville. We are accessible via Route 55 and other major highways. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We serve communities across the county, including Bridgeton, Vineland, Millville, Upper Deerfield, Commercial Township, and Greenwich.
If you need a failure to obey a police officer lawyer near me Cumberland County, our team is ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions: Failure to Obey a Police Officer Charges
Is failure to obey a police officer a criminal charge in New Jersey?
It depends. While typically charged as a traffic offense, a willful refusal to obey can be elevated to a disorderly persons offense, which is a criminal charge in New Jersey. This can result in jail time and a criminal record, making it important to consult with a lawyer as early as possible.
Can I just pay the fine and avoid going to court?
No. A charge under NJSA 39:4-57 requires a court appearance. Simply paying the fine is an admission of guilt, which will result in a conviction, points on your license, and all associated penalties. You must appear before a judge.
What are common defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include arguing that the officer’s order was not lawful, that you did not willfully refuse to comply (e.g., you didn’t hear or understand the order), or that the officer’s account is not supported by evidence. An experienced attorney can identify the best defense for your specific situation.
How many points will I get on my license?
A conviction for failure to obey a police officer typically adds 2 points to your New Jersey driving record. Accumulating points can lead to license suspension and significantly higher insurance premiums.
Should I get a lawyer for a traffic ticket like this?
Yes. Given the potential for jail time, a criminal record, and license points, the consequences are too severe to handle alone. A lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor, challenge the evidence, and work to have the charge reduced or dismissed.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing this charge, you may also want to learn about New Jersey traffic defense strategies. For representation in nearby areas, consider our Atlantic County traffic lawyer or Camden County traffic lawyer. For other legal needs in Cumberland County, we also assist with DUI charges and federal criminal matters.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding your failure to obey a police officer charge in Cumberland County, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Cumberland County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on failure to obey a police officer cases in New Jersey explains each stage.
Your case in Cumberland County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Cumberland County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Cumberland Vicinage (15th Vicinage), Broad & Fayette Streets, Bridgeton, NJ 08302, telephone (856) 453-4300, 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 the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Cumberland 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: Cumberland County NJ lawyers directory · Failure to Obey a Police Officer Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Failure to Obey a Police Officer Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Failure to Obey a Police Officer Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.