Somerset County Reckless Driving Lawyer | SRIS, P.C.
Somerset County Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
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, a $200 fine, and 5 insurance points. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for clients facing these charges at the Somerville Municipal Court. Our firm, founded in 1997, has extensive experience handling traffic violations across New Jersey.
New Jersey Reckless Driving Statute
New Jersey law defines reckless driving as operating 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 statute, N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, gives prosecutors in Somerset County significant discretion to charge aggressive or dangerous driving behaviors. The charge is distinct from careless driving, which is a lesser offense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute text, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 (official New Jersey Legislature). Court information and procedures can be found at the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for a Somerset County Reckless Driving Charge
Reckless driving cases in Somerset County are typically heard in the municipal court where the violation occurred, such as Somerville, Bridgewater, or Franklin Township. Prosecutors often seek the maximum penalties for high-speed or aggressive incidents on roads like I-287 or Route 22. A skilled Somerset County reckless driving attorney can challenge the state’s evidence regarding “willful or wanton” disregard.
- Receive your traffic summons and note your court date and location.
- Consult with a Somerset County reckless driving law firm to review the police report and evidence.
- Your attorney may file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charge’s validity.
- Attend your municipal court arraignment and enter a plea.
- Engage in plea negotiations or proceed to a bench trial before the municipal judge.
- If convicted, your attorney can argue for minimal penalties at sentencing or file an appeal to the Law Division.
Potential Penalties for Reckless Driving in New Jersey
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 a mandatory 5-point assessment on your driving record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving | Traffic Offense (Disorderly Persons equivalent) | Up to 60 days in jail | $50 – $200 | 5 insurance points; possible license suspension for multiple offenses | Significant increase in auto insurance premiums; possible driver responsibility surcharges. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to each case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in traffic and criminal matters. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your driving privileges and future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific Somerset County reckless driving case results are protected by confidentiality, our firm-wide practice has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. We actively represent clients in New Jersey courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Somerset County Defense Services
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Somerset County courts. We represent individuals from communities including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. If you need a reckless driving lawyer near the Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville, we can help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?
No. Reckless driving is a traffic offense under Title 39, not a criminal indictable offense under Title 2C. However, it is a serious violation punishable by jail time, fines, and points, and is heard in Municipal Court.
How many points is reckless driving in NJ?
Five points are assessed against your driving record for a reckless driving conviction in New Jersey. Accumulating 6 or more points within three years triggers a surcharge, and 12 or more points can lead to a license suspension.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge?
It depends. Prosecutors in Somerset County municipal courts may offer a plea to careless driving (a 2-point offense) for first-time offenders, especially if the alleged behavior was not egregious. An attorney can negotiate this reduction.
Should I just plead guilty to a reckless driving ticket?
No. Pleading guilty means accepting the maximum 5 points, a fine, and potential jail time. Consulting a Somerset County reckless driving attorney first allows you to explore defenses, challenge evidence, or seek a charge reduction.
What is the difference between careless and reckless driving in NJ?
Careless driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97) is operating a vehicle without due caution, a lesser 2-point offense. Reckless driving requires a “willful or wanton disregard” for safety, a more serious 5-point offense with possible jail time.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Somerset County and criminal defense in Somerset County. For a broader view of our traffic practice, see our New Jersey traffic lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Hunterdon County and Morris County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.