Failure to stop for a school bus in New Jersey is a traffic violation under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1, carrying a $100-$250 fine, 5 points on your license, and up to 15 days of community service. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Failure to Stop for a School Bus Lawyer New Jersey
New Jersey Law on Failure to Stop for a School Bus
Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1, drivers in New Jersey must stop at least 25 feet from a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended. This applies on all roadways, including divided highways. A first offense carries a $100 fine, 5 points on your driving record, and up to 15 days of community service. A second offense within 3 years results in a $250 fine, 5 points, and up to 15 days of community service. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court handles these cases. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court | New Jersey Legislature
Official New Jersey Statutes and Resources
What to Expect in New Jersey Municipal Court
In the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court, prosecutors routinely offer plea deals for first-time offenders. We have observed that judges often reduce charges to a non-moving violation if the driver has a clean record. The key is to act quickly before the court date.
- Contact a failure to stop for a school bus lawyer New Jersey immediately after receiving the citation.
- Preserve any dashcam footage or photographs of the incident.
- Review the citation for errors in the vehicle description, location, or time.
- Attend all scheduled court hearings at the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction to a non-moving violation.
- Consider community service as an alternative to fines and points.
In New Jersey, failure to stop for a school bus carries fines up to $250, 5 points on your license, and up to 15 days of community service.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense | Traffic Violation | None | $100 | 5 Points | Up to 15 days community service |
| Second Offense (within 3 years) | Traffic Violation | None | $250 | 5 Points | Up to 15 days community service |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your New Jersey Case
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. ‘Advocacy Without Borders’ means we fight for you across state lines. Our team has extensive criminal defense experience handling traffic violations in New Jersey.
Your Legal Team
Our Track Record in New Jersey
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. While specific New Jersey case counts vary, our firm-wide favorable-outcome rate exceeds 93%. Results may vary.
Our New Jersey Location
Our location in Tinton Falls is accessible from the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court via I-195 and the Garden State Parkway. Serving the communities of all 21 New Jersey counties. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Phone: (609) 983-0003
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Failure to Stop for a School Bus in New Jersey
What is the penalty for failure to stop for a school bus in New Jersey?
Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1, a first offense carries a $100 fine, 5 points on your license, and possible 15 days of community service. A second offense within 3 years results in a $250 fine, 5 points, and up to 15 days of community service. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court handles these cases.
Can I lose my license for passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey?
Yes. A conviction under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1 adds 5 points to your driving record. Accumulating 12-14 points can trigger a license suspension by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court may also impose additional penalties.
How does a failure to stop for a school bus charge affect my insurance in New Jersey?
It depends. A conviction under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1 adds 5 points to your driving record, which typically increases insurance premiums. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court may also impose fines and community service. An attorney can help negotiate a reduction.
Do I need a lawyer for a failure to stop for a school bus ticket in New Jersey?
Yes. A conviction under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1 carries 5 points, fines up to $250, and potential community service. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court handles these cases. An attorney can help reduce charges or negotiate a plea to avoid points.
What should I do if I am charged with failure to stop for a school bus in New Jersey?
Contact a failure to stop for a school bus lawyer New Jersey immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any dashcam footage or witness information. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court will schedule a hearing. Prompt action is critical.
How long does a civil lawsuit take in New Jersey?
Small claims may resolve in 2-4 months. Circuit or superior court cases typically take 12-24 months through discovery, motions, and trial. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part handles these matters under NJ Rules of Court and N.J.S.A. 2A:14-1 et seq.
What is the statute of limitations for civil litigation in New Jersey?
Under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-1 et seq., the statute of limitations for most civil actions in New Jersey is 6 years for breach of contract and 2 years for personal injury. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part handles these cases.
Can I represent myself in a civil lawsuit in New Jersey?
Yes, you can represent yourself (pro se) in New Jersey courts. However, civil litigation involves complex rules of evidence and procedure. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Civil Part requires strict compliance with deadlines. An attorney can help handle these requirements.
Related Legal Services
Last verified: April 2026