Reckless Driving Lawyer New Jersey — What Are Your Defense Options?
A reckless driving charge in New Jersey under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 is a serious traffic offense carrying up to 60 days in jail, 5 license points, and substantial fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for drivers across the state. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of New Jersey | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Reckless Driving Law
In New Jersey, reckless driving is defined by statute as 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 under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 gives prosecutors wide latitude. The offense is not a crime but a serious traffic violation heard in Municipal Court. A conviction results in 5 motor vehicle points, a fine of up to $200, and potential jail time of up to 60 days for a first offense. Subsequent offenses carry higher fines and up to 3 months in jail. The real financial impact comes from New Jersey’s surcharge system, which adds $100 per year for three years for each point over 6 on your license.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the reckless driving statute, see N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 (New Jersey Legislature). For information on court procedures and locations, visit the New Jersey Courts website.
Local Court Process for a Reckless Driving Charge
Your case will begin with a summons to appear in the Municipal Court for the town where the alleged violation occurred. New Jersey traffic offenses are quasi-criminal proceedings. Plea bargaining is common and a key strategy is negotiating a reckless driving charge (5 points) down to a careless driving violation (2 points under N.J.S.A. 39:4-97), which can save thousands in insurance surcharges.
- Receive your traffic summons and note your court date.
- Consult with a reckless driving lawyer New Jersey to review the evidence and your driving history.
- Your attorney will contact the municipal prosecutor before your court date to discuss possible plea negotiations.
- Attend your court hearing, where your lawyer will present arguments or a negotiated plea to the judge.
- If convicted, your attorney can advise on options like a defensive driving course to remove 2 points.
- Address any license suspension or surcharge notices from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.
Potential Penalties for Reckless Driving in New Jersey
In New Jersey, a reckless driving conviction carries a mandatory 5 license points, a fine of up to $200, and the possibility of up to 60 days in jail for a first offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Points | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (1st) | Traffic Violation | Up to 60 days | Up to $200 | 5 points | NJ Surcharges ($100/yr per point over 6 for 3 yrs), insurance increase |
| Reckless Driving (2nd+) | Traffic Violation | Up to 3 months | Up to $500 | 5 points | Increased surcharges, possible license suspension |
| Careless Driving (Plea Option) | Traffic Violation | None | Up to $200 | 2 points | Reduced surcharge liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide full representation. We understand the severe financial impact of New Jersey’s point and surcharge system and fight to minimize that burden for our clients. Our track record includes successfully having a reckless driving charge dismissed for clients by challenging the officer’s observations or radar calibration.
Documented Case Results
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While results are always case-specific, our experience includes numerous instances where we secured reductions from reckless driving to lesser offenses like careless driving, avoiding license points and surcharges for our clients. Mr. Sris, our primary attorney for New Jersey traffic matters, leads this defense effort.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Jersey Reckless Driving Defense Team
Our New Jersey location serves clients statewide. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
We represent drivers across New Jersey, including in Bergen, Essex, Monmouth, Morris, and Somerset Counties.
Frequently Asked Questions: Reckless Driving in NJ
How many points is a reckless driving ticket in New Jersey?
5 points. Reckless driving under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 adds 5 points to your New Jersey driving record. Accumulating 6 or more points triggers the state’s surcharge system, costing $100 per year for each excess point for three years.
Can a reckless driving charge be dismissed in New Jersey?
It depends. A reckless driving charge dismissed is possible if the evidence is weak, the officer fails to appear, or procedural errors are found. An aggressive driving defense lawyer New Jersey can file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the state’s case, increasing the chance of dismissal.
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?
No. Reckless driving is a serious traffic violation, not a criminal misdemeanor or felony. It is heard in Municipal Court, not criminal court. However, it can carry jail time and has severe consequences for your license and insurance.
What is the difference between reckless and careless driving in NJ?
Reckless driving (5 points) involves willful or wanton disregard for safety. Careless driving (2 points) is a lesser offense for driving without due caution. A common defense strategy is negotiating a reduction from reckless to careless driving to save 3 points on your license.
Should I plead guilty to a reckless driving ticket to avoid court?
No. Pleading guilty means accepting 5 points, fines, surcharges, and potential jail time. You should always consult a reckless driving lawyer New Jersey first. An attorney can often negotiate a better outcome, such as a reduction to a 2-point violation.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our New Jersey Reckless Driving Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters like New Jersey criminal defense and New Jersey DWI charges.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.