Failure to Obey a Police Officer Lawyer in Mercer County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
A charge for failure to obey a police officer in Mercer County is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-57, carrying fines, points, and potential jail time. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing this charge in the Mercer Vicinage Superior Court.
Understanding Failure to Obey a Police Officer Charges in New Jersey
The charge of failure to obey a police officer is defined under New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-57. This law makes it illegal for any person to refuse or fail 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 minor infraction; it is a traffic offense that can have significant legal consequences.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Mr. Sris, the founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor with over 25 years of legal experience. His background provides a critical understanding of how these charges are pursued in Mercer County courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to the New Jersey Statutes (N.J.S.A. 39:4-57). Court procedures and forms for Mercer County can be found on the Mercer Vicinage Superior Court website.
Local Court Process for a Failure to Obey Charge in Mercer County
In Mercer County, a failure to obey a police officer charge is typically heard in the Municipal Division of the Superior Court located in the municipality where the alleged violation occurred. The process is adversarial, and the prosecution must prove you willfully failed to comply with a lawful order. A key local procedural fact is that these cases are often based heavily on the officer’s testimony and report, making the credibility of both parties central to the defense.
- Receive the Summons: You will receive a traffic ticket (summons) specifying the charge, court date, and location.
- Initial Appearance: You must appear in the designated municipal court on your scheduled date. You can plead guilty, not guilty, or request an adjournment to consult an attorney.
- Pre-Trial Conference: If you plead not guilty, a pre-trial conference may be scheduled where your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor for a potential plea deal or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge. The officer will testify, and your attorney will present your defense.
- Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will impose penalties, which may include fines, court costs, and other sanctions.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Law Division of the Superior Court within 20 days.
Potential Penalties for Failure to Obey a Police Officer in NJ
In Mercer County, a conviction for failure to obey a police officer under N.J.S.A. 39:4-57 can result in a fine of $50 to $200, up to 15 days in jail, and a 2-point assessment on your driving record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to Obey a Police Officer (N.J.S.A. 39:4-57) | Traffic Violation | Up to 15 days in jail | $50 – $200 + court costs | 2 motor vehicle points | Increased insurance premiums; possible community service. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Mercer County Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, our team understands the stakes of a traffic charge. We focus on building a defense that challenges the prosecution’s evidence, often by examining the lawfulness of the officer’s order and the circumstances of the alleged non-compliance.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a proven record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing traffic and misdemeanor charges. While specific results for failure to obey a police officer in Mercer County are not listed, our overall approach has secured dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements in similar matters. We analyze every detail, from the officer’s report to potential procedural errors.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Failure to Obey a Police Officer Lawyer Near Mercer County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at courts throughout Mercer County, including those in Trenton, Hamilton, and Princeton. We are accessible via I-95, Route 1, and the NJ Turnpike. If you are searching for a failure to obey a police officer lawyer near me Mercer 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.
Communities Served: Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton Township, Ewing, Lawrence, West Windsor, East Windsor, Hopewell, Robbinsville, Hightstown.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Failure to Obey a Police Officer in Mercer County
Is failure to obey a police officer a criminal charge in NJ?
No. It is a traffic violation under Title 39 of New Jersey law, not a criminal offense under the criminal code. However, it can carry penalties like jail time and will appear on your driving record.
Can I go to jail for failing to obey a police officer?
Yes. The statute allows for a sentence of up to 15 days in jail. While not common for a first offense, the possibility exists, especially if the violation is seen as willful or part of a more serious incident.
How many points will I get on my license?
A conviction for failure to obey a police officer in New Jersey results in a 2-point assessment on your driving record. Accumulating 12 or more points within a two-year period can lead to a license suspension.
What are common defenses to this charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include arguing the officer’s order was not lawful, you did not hear or understand the order, you were attempting to comply safely, or the officer misidentified your vehicle. An affordable failure to obey a police officer lawyer Mercer County can evaluate which defense applies to you.
Should I just plead guilty and pay the fine?
It is not advisable to plead guilty without consulting an attorney. A conviction adds points to your license, which increases insurance costs and risk of suspension. A lawyer may be able to get the charge dismissed or reduced to a zero-point offense.
What if I didn’t understand the officer’s command?
Lack of understanding can be a valid defense if it was reasonable. For example, if the officer’s signals were unclear, you had a hearing impairment, or there was excessive noise. Your attorney can present evidence to support this claim.
Internal Resources
For more information on related legal matters in New Jersey, visit our New Jersey Traffic Lawyer hub page. You may also find our pages on Mercer County Reckless Driving and Mercer County Criminal Defense useful.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding a failure to obey a police officer charge.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.