Seth Azria Logo

NY Traffic Ticket Defense Articles

Legal insights, guides, and tips for handling traffic tickets in New York.

Traffic Law Basics 2 min read

What are Traffic Infractions as Opposed to Misdemeanors?

By Seth M. Azria, Esq.
Traffic Infractions and Traffic Misdemeanors in New York

1. Traffic Infractions are Not Crimes

"Traffic Infraction" is officially defined by the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 155 as non-criminal. If you are charged with a traffic infraction—as opposed to a misdemeanor or a felony—it means that you do not have to appear in court and you may answer the ticket by mail. Your answer may be "guilty" or "not guilty."

Legal Warning:
Even though an infraction is not a crime, we strongly advise against pleading guilty without first seeking a reduction. Pleading guilty can result in heavy fines, points on your license, and increased insurance premiums.

2. A Misdemeanor is a Crime

A misdemeanor, on the other hand, is classified as a crime and generally requires a physical appearance in court for an arraignment. Misdemeanors also carry increased fines, harsher penalties, and the potential for a permanent criminal record.

The most common misdemeanor traffic ticket in New York is Aggravated Unlicensed Operation (AUO). For our clients facing misdemeanor charges, we always try to appear in court on their behalf and otherwise make the legal process as easy as possible.

Free Consultations

Have a Traffic Ticket in NY?

Speak directly with Seth M. Azria, Esq. to get a fast, free evaluation of your case.

Text the Ticket Tap to Text Photo (315) 396-8006 Click to Call
Would Recommend to Anyone

Seth Azria was recommended to me by a friend. I can't say enough about how well I was treated, his responsiveness, and how my case was handled. My first call to him was on 12/22/14 and we met the same day. My first and last date in court was 1/15/15. The outcome was better than I ever expected it could be and would recommend him to anyone.

A client posted to Avvo
Great Results

I had received a speeding ticket a few months ago that would have been 5 points 20 MPH over the speed limit. I had not had a speeding ticket in a very long time and I was hesitant when looking for a lawyer but I saw good reviews about Seth Azria and decided to email him with my information. I received a response within a few hours and his charges were much lower than I was expecting to pay from what I had paid in the past. His staff was very friendly and I was kept well informed as to what was going on. He was able to get it reduced to no points and a very small fine. I was very happy with the results and would recommend him to anyone looking for help with speeding ticket.

John posted to Avvo
I highly recommend them, they are the best.

I was very satisfied having them represent me on a speeding ticket. The process was seamless and very convenient. I highly recommend them and will not consider anyone else to represent me if I should ever land in any sticky situations again. They fight tirelessly for you and make it easy for you. I'm from out of state so I didn't have to travel or lift a finger to get it taken care of. They are great.

Kirk posted to Avvo
Google+ Review

Azria and Bruffett were great! They helped us resolve a traffic ticket and were always available, responsive and courteous. I would highly recommend them!!

Leah Z. Huberman posted to Google+