Driving in Wrong Direction Lawyer in Ocean County, NJ
Driving in the wrong direction in Ocean County is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1, carrying fines, points, and potential license suspension. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges in the Ocean Vicinage Superior Court. If you face this charge, contact a driving in wrong direction lawyer Ocean County for immediate help.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Ocean Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
What Is Wrong-Way Driving in New Jersey?
New Jersey law specifically prohibits driving a vehicle in a direction opposite to the authorized traffic flow. This offense, defined under N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1, is more than a simple mistake; it is considered reckless behavior that endangers public safety. The statute applies to divided highways, one-way streets, and any roadway where such action is clearly prohibited by signs or markings. A conviction results in motor vehicle points and significant fines.
- Receive the traffic summons or complaint from law enforcement.
- Determine your court date, typically listed on the ticket, for the Ocean County Superior Court.
- Consult with a driving in wrong direction lawyer Ocean County to review the charges and evidence.
- Appear in court for your hearing, where your attorney can argue for a reduction or dismissal.
- If convicted, address any fines, points, or potential license suspension requirements.
- Explore options for appealing the decision if necessary.
Penalties for Wrong-Way Driving in Ocean County
In Ocean County, driving in the wrong direction carries a fine of up to $500, 4 motor vehicle points, and a potential license suspension, with increased penalties if an accident occurs.
| Offense | Classification | Fine | Points | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving in Wrong Direction (N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1) | Traffic Violation | $100 – $500 | 4 | Possible Suspension | Court costs, surcharges, increased insurance rates |
| Wrong-Way Driving Causing Accident | Traffic Violation / Possible Criminal Charge | Up to $1,000+ | 4+ | Likely Suspension | Civil liability for damages, potential reckless driving charges |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Legal Defense for Ocean County Traffic Charges
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 of the Ocean Vicinage courts and the serious approach taken toward wrong-way driving offenses.
Case Results for Traffic Offenses
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against serious traffic and related charges. While specific results for wrong-way driving in Ocean County are not publicly listed, our firm’s approach to traffic defense has led to numerous favorable outcomes, including dismissals and reductions of charges in similar high-stakes moving violations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Ocean County Traffic Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Ocean County. We are accessible from major highways like the GSP, Route 37, and Route 9. If you need a driving in wrong direction lawyer near me Ocean County, we are here to help. We serve communities including Toms River, Lakewood, Brick Township, Jackson Township, Lacey, Stafford, Little Egg Harbor, Barnegat, Berkeley Township, Manchester, Seaside Heights, and Point Pleasant.
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) 651-9900
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Driving in Wrong Direction Charges in Ocean County
Is driving the wrong way a criminal offense in NJ?
No, it is typically a traffic violation under N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1. However, it carries 4 points, heavy fines, and if it causes an accident, it could lead to reckless driving charges or criminal charges like assault by auto.
How many points is a wrong-way driving ticket?
4 motor vehicle points are assessed for a conviction of driving in the wrong direction under New Jersey law. Accumulating 6 or more points within three years triggers a surcharge, and 12 or more points can lead to a license suspension.
Can I go to jail for driving the wrong way?
It depends. For the basic traffic violation, jail time is unlikely. However, if the action leads to an accident causing injury or is charged as reckless driving, jail time becomes a possibility. An affordable driving in wrong direction lawyer Ocean County can argue against such enhancements.
What should I do if I get a ticket for this in Ocean County?
First, do not ignore the ticket. Note your court date for the Ocean County Superior Court. Then, contact a driving in wrong direction lawyer Ocean County as early as possible to discuss defense strategies, such as challenging the officer’s observation or the roadway signage.
Can this charge affect my insurance?
Yes. A conviction for a 4-point violation like wrong-way driving will significantly increase your auto insurance premiums for several years. A lawyer may help you avoid a conviction through a plea to a lesser, non-points offense.
Local Resources and Further Reading
For the official state law, refer to the New Jersey Legislature’s page on N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1. For court-specific information, visit the Ocean Vicinage website.
Related Legal Services in Ocean County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Ocean County, reckless driving, and criminal defense. For all New Jersey traffic defense information, see our NJ traffic lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Atlantic County and Burlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If your case reaches beyond Ocean County, our page on driving in wrong direction charges across New Jersey sets out what to look for at each stage.
Your case in Ocean 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 Ocean County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Ocean Vicinage (9th Vicinage), 120 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08753, telephone (732) 504-0700, 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 Ocean 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: Ocean County NJ lawyers directory · Driving in Wrong Direction Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Driving in Wrong Direction Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Driving in Wrong Direction Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.