Reckless Driving Lawyer Bergen County — What Is Your Best Defense?
A reckless driving charge in Bergen 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 points on your license. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients at the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage in Hackensack. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results.
New Jersey Reckless Driving Law
In New Jersey, reckless driving is defined by statute as operating a vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” This broad definition under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 gives prosecutors wide latitude to charge drivers for aggressive or dangerous behavior. The offense is quasi-criminal, meaning you face a judge in Municipal Court, not an administrative hearing. A conviction results in 5 motor vehicle points, which directly impact your license status and trigger New Jersey’s costly insurance surcharge system.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the reckless driving statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 (New Jersey Statutes). All Bergen County traffic matters are adjudicated at the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage in Hackensack.
Bergen County Court Process for Reckless Driving
Your case will be heard at the Bergen County Municipal Court located at 10 Main Street in Hackensack. New Jersey’s traffic court process is more formal than many realize. Plea bargaining is a common and effective strategy here; a skilled aggressive driving defense lawyer Bergen County can often negotiate a reduction from reckless driving (5 points) to careless driving (2 points), significantly reducing long-term financial penalties.
- Receive your traffic summons and note your court date at the Bergen Vicinage.
- Consult with an attorney to review the evidence and police report for procedural defenses.
- Your attorney may file pre-trial motions or engage in plea negotiations with the municipal prosecutor.
- If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a Municipal Court judge.
Potential Penalties for Reckless Driving in Bergen County
In Bergen County, a reckless driving conviction carries a penalty of up to 60 days in jail, a $200 fine, 5 license points, and thousands in insurance surcharges over three years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96) | Traffic Offense (Quasi-Criminal) | Up to 60 days (1st offense) | Up to $200 | 5 points | NJ Surcharges: $100/yr per point over 6 for 3 years; Unsafe Driver Surcharge possible. |
| Careless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97) | Traffic Offense | None | Up to $200 | 2 points | Reduced insurance impact compared to reckless driving. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bergen County Traffic Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide dedicated, full representation for clients facing serious traffic charges. We understand the local Bergen County court procedures and the significant financial impact of New Jersey’s point and surcharge system.
Case Results and Client Outcomes
While specific local case counts are not published, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. This extensive history includes numerous instances where our team has successfully argued for a reckless driving charge dismissed lawyer Bergen County clients rely on for aggressive defense. Every case is unique, and we work to achieve the best possible result given the specific facts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation for Bergen County Residents
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County, including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, and surrounding communities. We are familiar with the routes and court locations in the area, accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17.
Contact a reckless driving lawyer Bergen County near you:
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Reckless Driving in Bergen County
How many points is a speeding ticket in Bergen County, New Jersey?
In New Jersey: 1-14 mph over = 2 points; 15-29 over = 4 points; 30+ over = 5 points. Reckless driving = 5 points. At 6+ points, NJ adds surcharges of $100/year per excess point for 3 years. An attorney can often negotiate reckless (5 points) down to careless driving (2 points).
Can I fight a traffic ticket in Bergen County, NJ?
Yes. NJ traffic cases are heard by a Municipal Court judge. Plea bargaining is allowed — common to negotiate reckless driving down to careless driving, saving 3 points and thousands in insurance surcharges. Court costs are $33 per ticket, and NJ’s surcharge system adds significant additional costs for drivers with points.
What are NJ insurance surcharges for traffic tickets?
NJ assesses surcharges on top of fines: $100/year per point over 6 (for 3 years) and a $250/year Unsafe Driver Surcharge for 3+ violations in 3 years. A defensive driving course removes 2 points. An attorney can negotiate charge reductions that minimize point and surcharge impact.
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?
No, but it is quasi-criminal. It is not a crime listed in the criminal code, but it is tried in Municipal Court before a judge, not an administrative body. You have the right to an attorney, and the state must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
What is the difference between reckless and aggressive driving in NJ?
It depends. Reckless driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96) is a general offense for driving with willful disregard. Aggressive driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97.2) is a specific charge that requires committing three or more moving violations in a single sequence. Both carry 5 points, but aggressive driving has higher fines.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For current guidance on your reckless driving charge in Bergen County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our New Jersey Reckless Driving Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring counties like Morris County and Somerset County. If you are facing other charges, our firm provides Bergen County criminal defense and Bergen County DWI defense.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.