Passing a Stopped School Bus Lawyer in New Jersey
Passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey is a serious traffic violation under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1, carrying fines up to $500, 5 motor vehicle points, and possible community service. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has extensive criminal defense experience across New Jersey. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
New Jersey Law on Passing a Stopped 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. Passing a stopped school bus is a moving violation that endangers children and carries significant penalties. The statute applies on all public roadways, including multi-lane highways, unless the roadway is divided by a median or barrier. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court | New Jersey Legislature — official site
Official New Jersey Statute and Resources
Review the full text of N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1 (New Jersey Legislature — official site) for the complete law on passing a stopped school bus. For court procedures, visit New Jersey Courts — official site.
Insider Knowledge: How New Jersey Municipal Courts Handle School Bus Violations
In the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court, prosecutors routinely treat passing a stopped school bus as a high-priority safety violation. We have observed that judges often impose the maximum penalty when a driver has prior moving violations. Early intervention with an attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome.
- Do not ignore the ticket — respond immediately to avoid a bench warrant.
- Contact a passing a stopped school bus lawyer New Jersey to evaluate your case.
- Gather any dashcam footage or witness statements that may support your defense.
- Attend all court hearings at the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court.
- Work with your attorney to negotiate a reduction or dismissal of the charge.
- If convicted, consider taking a defensive driving course to mitigate points.
Penalties for Passing a Stopped School Bus in New Jersey
In New Jersey, passing a stopped school bus under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1 carries fines, points, and potential license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense | Moving Violation | None | $100 – $500 | 5 Motor Vehicle Points | 15 days community service possible |
| Second Offense (within 5 years) | Moving Violation | None | $200 – $500 | 5 Points + 14-Day License Suspension | Mandatory community service |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your New Jersey School Bus Violation Defense?
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%. The firm, operating under the tagline “Advocacy Without Borders,” provides dedicated representation for clients facing traffic violations in New Jersey. Mr. Sris personally oversees all New Jersey cases, ensuring strategic and experienced advocacy.
Case Results for New Jersey Traffic Matters
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in New Jersey, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. The firm maintains a favorable-outcome rate above 93% across all practice areas. Results may vary.
Our New Jersey Location and Service Areas
Our location in Tinton Falls is accessible from the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court via major highways including I-195, the Garden State Parkway, and Route 18. We serve as a passing a stopped school bus lawyer near me New Jersey for clients throughout the state.
Serving the communities of all 21 New Jersey counties, including Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, and Union 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 Passing a Stopped School Bus in New Jersey
What are the penalties for passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey?
Yes. Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1, passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey carries a fine of $100 to $500, 5 motor vehicle points, and possible 15 days of community service. A second offense within 5 years results in a 14-day license suspension. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court handles these matters.
Can I get a passing a stopped school bus ticket reduced in New Jersey?
It depends. In New Jersey, a passing a stopped school bus ticket may be reduced to a lesser moving violation through negotiation with the municipal prosecutor. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court reviews these requests. An attorney can present mitigating factors under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1.
How many points is passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey?
Yes. Passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey results in 5 motor vehicle points on your driving record under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1. Accumulating 6 or more points within 3 years triggers a surcharge. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court adjudicates these violations.
Do I need a lawyer for a passing a stopped school bus ticket in New Jersey?
It depends. While you may represent yourself, a passing a stopped school bus lawyer New Jersey can help negotiate a reduction or dismissal. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division — Municipal Court requires strict compliance with N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1. An attorney can protect your driving record and avoid insurance increases.
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 should I do if I am facing a passing a stopped school bus charge in New Jersey?
If facing a passing a stopped school bus charge in New Jersey, contact a passing a stopped school bus lawyer New Jersey immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under New Jersey law require prompt action.
Related Legal Resources
For more information on traffic and civil litigation matters in New Jersey, explore our Civil Litigation Lawyer New Jersey hub page. You may also find our pages on Traffic Lawyer New Jersey and Criminal Defense Lawyer New Jersey useful.
Page last updated: 2026-04-30