Driving Wrong Way on a One Way Street Lawyer in Somerset County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
Driving the wrong way on a one-way street in Somerset County is a serious traffic violation under N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1, carrying fines, points, and potential insurance hikes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges in Somerville and Bridgewater courts.
New Jersey Law on Wrong-Way Driving
New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1 specifically prohibits driving in the direction opposite to the official traffic flow on a one-way roadway. This is not a minor infraction; it is classified as a moving violation that demonstrates a disregard for traffic control devices and creates a significant hazard. The law is designed to prevent head-on collisions and maintain orderly traffic patterns in municipalities like Somerville, Franklin Township, and throughout Somerset County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to the New Jersey Legislature website for N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1. Court procedures and filing information for Somerset County can be found on the New Jersey Courts website for the Somerset Vicinage.
Local Court Process for a Wrong-Way Driving Ticket
In Somerset County, a ticket for driving wrong way on a one-way street is typically heard in the Somerville Municipal Court. The process is administrative but carries real consequences. The court expects you to either pay the fine (which is an admission of guilt) or appear to contest the charge. An affordable driving wrong way on a one-way street lawyer Somerset County can handle this process for you, often without requiring your physical presence in court.
- Review the ticket for the court date and violation details (N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1).
- Consult with a driving wrong way on a one-way street lawyer near me Somerset County to discuss defense strategies.
- Your attorney will file necessary motions and represent you at the pre-trial conference.
- Negotiate with the municipal prosecutor for a plea to a reduced charge or dismissal based on evidence.
- If no agreement is reached, proceed to a bench trial before the municipal judge.
- Address any post-trial requirements like fines or driver improvement programs.
Potential Penalties and Consequences
In Somerset County, a conviction for driving wrong way on a one-way street results in fines, state points, and a marked increase in auto insurance premiums.
| Offense | Classification | Fine | NJ MVC Points | License Impact | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wrong-Way Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1) | Moving Violation | $85 – $140 + court costs | 2 points | Points on record; potential insurance surcharge | Increased insurance rates for 3+ years; possible driver improvement program. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to traffic defense. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the local procedures in Somerset County courts and focus on protecting your driving record and finances. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to every client’s case.
Our Approach to Your Case
We begin by scrutinizing the officer’s observations and any available evidence, such as signage visibility or road markings. For many clients in Somerset County, we seek a reduction to a “zero-point” violation like N.J.S.A. 39:4-56 (Unnecessary Noise) to avoid MVC points and insurance penalties. Our goal is to resolve your case efficiently, often without you needing to take time off work for a court appearance.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Traffic Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Somerset County. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206, near the Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville. If you need a driving wrong way on a one-way street lawyer near me Somerset County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations.
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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
We serve communities including: Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is driving the wrong way on a one-way street a criminal offense in NJ?
No. It is a traffic violation, not a criminal offense. However, it is a serious moving violation that adds points to your license and can significantly increase your insurance costs.
How many points is a wrong-way driving ticket in New Jersey?
Two points. These points are added to your driving record with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission and remain for two years from the violation date.
Can I just pay the ticket online and be done with it?
You can, but paying the fine is an automatic guilty plea. This will convict you of the violation, adding the 2 points to your license and triggering insurance consequences. It is often worth consulting an attorney first.
What are the typical fines for this violation in Somerset County?
The base fine ranges from $85 to $140, but with mandatory court costs and other fees, the total amount you pay can be over $200.
Can an attorney get this ticket dismissed?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if there are legal or factual defenses, such as improperly posted signage or mistaken identity. An affordable driving wrong way on a one-way street lawyer Somerset County can evaluate your specific case for dismissal potential.
Will I have to go to court if I hire a lawyer?
Often, no. For many wrong-way driving cases, your attorney can appear on your behalf in Somerville Municipal Court, especially for initial conferences and plea negotiations.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other traffic charges in Somerset County, you may also want to learn about DUI defense. For a broader understanding of New Jersey traffic law, visit our state resource page for civil litigation in NJ. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Bergen County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your driving wrong way on a one-way street charge in Somerset County.