Burlington County Use of Handheld Communication Device Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A ticket for use of a handheld communication device in Burlington County is a moving violation under N.J.S.A. 39:4-97.3, carrying fines, points, and potential insurance increases. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges, aiming to protect your driving record. Our firm has extensive experience handling traffic matters in Burlington County courts. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
New Jersey Law on Handheld Device Use While Driving
The statute prohibiting the use of a handheld wireless communication device while driving is N.J.S.A. 39:4-97.3. This law makes it illegal to hold a phone or other wireless device to talk or text while operating a motor vehicle on a public road or highway. The law is part of New Jersey’s broader distracted driving enforcement efforts. The firm was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor with a deep understanding of traffic enforcement priorities.
Last verified: April 2026 | Burlington County Municipal Courts | New Jersey Legislature.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the law, you can review N.J.S.A. 39:4-97.3 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For information on court procedures and locations, visit the New Jersey Courts Municipal Court website.
Local Court Process for a Handheld Device Ticket
In Burlington County Municipal Court, these tickets are processed as standard moving violations. Prosecutors often have a standard approach for first-time offenses, but the specific court and judge can influence outcomes. An experienced use of handheld communication device lawyer near me Burlington County can identify procedural details that may affect your case.
- Receive your ticket and note the court date and location.
- Consult with an attorney to review the citation and discuss potential defenses.
- Your attorney may file for a postponement to prepare or negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Appear in Burlington County Municipal Court, either for a plea or trial.
- If convicted, understand the options for payment or appealing the decision.
Potential Penalties for a Handheld Device Violation
In Burlington County, a first offense for use of a handheld communication device carries a fine of $200 to $400, court costs, and 3 motor vehicle points.
| Offense | Classification | Fine Range | Points | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense | Moving Violation | $200 – $400 + costs | 3 | Possible insurance increase |
| Second Offense | Moving Violation | $400 – $600 + costs | 3 | Increased insurance premiums |
| Third+ Offense | Moving Violation | $600 – $800 + costs | 3 | Possible driver improvement program requirement |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have combined experience handling thousands of traffic matters. We focus on building a defense specific to the details of your ticket and the practices of the local court. Our goal is to seek a favorable resolution, which may include a reduction in points or fines.
Representation for Burlington County Residents
Our firm has represented clients facing use of handheld communication device charges in Burlington County. We understand the local court procedures and work to protect our clients’ driving records.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fight a ticket for using my phone while driving in New Jersey?
Yes. You have the right to contest the ticket in court. Common defenses challenge whether you were actually “holding” the device, if the stop was lawful, or if the officer’s observation was accurate for the specific violation.
How many points is a handheld device ticket in NJ?
It is 3 motor vehicle points. These points stay on your driving record for two years from the violation date and can lead to significant surcharges from the state and increased insurance premiums.
Should I just pay the ticket to avoid going to court?
It depends. Paying is an admission of guilt, which adds points to your license. Consulting with an affordable use of handheld communication device lawyer Burlington County first can help you understand if fighting the ticket could result in a better outcome with fewer long-term costs.
What if I was using my phone hands-free?
No. The law specifically prohibits holding the device. Using a hands-free system, like Bluetooth or speakerphone, where the device is not in your hand, is generally permitted under New Jersey law.
Can an attorney get this ticket dismissed?
It is possible, but not guaranteed. Outcomes depend on case specifics. An attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate for a lesser offense, or present defenses at trial to seek a dismissal.
New Jersey Traffic Lawyer | Camden County Handheld Device Lawyer | Burlington County Reckless Driving Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (609)-983-0003 for current guidance.
New Jersey law governs this practice area.
Burlington County cases are handled by our New Jersey use of handheld communication device practice, where the whole process is set out.
Your case in Burlington 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 Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, 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 Burlington 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: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Bergen County NJ Use of Handheld Communication Device Lawyer · Hudson County NJ Use of Handheld Communication Device Lawyer · Use of Handheld Communication Device Lawyer Monmouth County.