Reckless driving in Somerset County is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, carrying up to 60 days in jail, 5 points on your license, and significant fines. A conviction can lead to insurance surcharges and license suspension. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing these charges at the Somerville Municipal Court.
New Jersey Reckless Driving Statute
In New Jersey, reckless driving is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-96. The law prohibits driving a vehicle “heedlessly, in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others, in a manner so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property.” This broad definition gives prosecutors in Somerset County leeway to bring charges for various aggressive or dangerous driving behaviors observed on roads like I-287 or Route 22.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures and forms for Somerset County are available through the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for Reckless Driving in Somerville
Reckless driving cases in Somerset County are heard in the Somerville Municipal Court. The court handles all traffic matters for the township. Prosecutors there often seek the full penalties allowed by law, especially in cases involving accidents or high speeds. An experienced Reckless Driving Attorney Somerset County NJ understands the local tendencies and can build a defense strategy accordingly.
- You will receive a summons with a court date at the Somerville Municipal Court building.
- Before your first appearance, your attorney can request discovery (the evidence against you).
- Your lawyer may file pre-trial motions to challenge the stop or the evidence.
- Negotiations with the municipal prosecutor may occur to seek a reduction to a lesser offense.
- If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before the municipal judge.
- The judge will render a verdict and impose any sentence if found guilty.
Potential Penalties for a Reckless Driving Conviction
In Somerset County, a reckless driving conviction under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 carries a penalty of up to 60 days in jail, a fine of $50 to $200, and 5 motor vehicle points.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96) | Traffic Offense | Up to 60 days | $50 – $200 | 5 points | Insurance surcharges, possible license suspension for accumulation of points. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Experience and Authority
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of combined legal experience to traffic defense cases. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in challenging the state’s evidence and negotiating with Somerset County prosecutors.
Case Results in Somerset County
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. actively represents clients in Somerset County courts. While specific local case counts are not published, the firm maintains a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with a high rate of favorable outcomes through dismissals, reductions, and not-guilty verdicts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Reckless Driving Law Firm Somerset County NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Somerset County. We are accessible from I-287, Route 22, and Route 206. We serve communities including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?
No. Reckless driving is a serious traffic violation, not a criminal offense under New Jersey’s Title 2C criminal code. However, it is prosecuted in municipal court and carries potential jail time, making a strong defense essential.
How many points is reckless driving in NJ?
Five. A conviction for reckless driving under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 adds 5 points to your New Jersey driving record. Accumulating 12 or more points within two years leads to a mandatory license suspension.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge?
It depends. In many Somerset County cases, an experienced attorney can negotiate with the municipal prosecutor to reduce the charge to a lesser offense like careless driving (2 points) or unsafe operation (0 points), avoiding the severe penalties of a reckless conviction.
What is the difference between careless and reckless driving in NJ?
Careless driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97) is a lesser offense implying negligence without willful disregard. Reckless driving is a more serious charge alleging willful or wanton disregard for safety. The points and potential penalties are significantly higher for reckless driving.
Should I plead guilty to a reckless driving ticket in Somerset County?
No. You should always consult with a Reckless Driving Lawyer Somerset County NJ before entering any plea. A guilty plea accepts all penalties, including points, fines, and possible jail time, and forfeits your right to challenge the state’s evidence.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters in Somerset County like DUI/DWI defense and traffic ticket defense. For defense in nearby areas, consider our Hunterdon County criminal lawyer or Morris County criminal lawyer.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.
For the background behind a Somerset County charge, our page explains how New Jersey courts handle reckless driving.