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
Google Review

I'm so glad I hired Mr. Azria and his team to address a traffic ticket. I live in Queens and could not travel upstate. Mr.Azria and his team communicated with me every step of the way and gained my trust.

Highly recommend!!

Google+ Review

Azria & Bruffett did a very professional and effective job of dealing with my (out of state) speeding ticket in upstate NY. I was going 75 in a 65 which means multiple points along with a hefty fine. Ralph Habib was able to reduce the magnitude of my ticket down to a no points, non-moving violation. The paralegal Monica coordinated all of the communications and made it a very easy process for me. Fees were reasonable and competitive with other firms I shopped around at. I would recommend them to anyone else facing ticket issues as well.

Google+ Review

Id like to say thanks to Mr. Azria and Azria & Bruffett Law Firm to solved my case, I felled that they are very supportive and i would recommend the peoples, that in any case select Azria as a your layer.

fazlullah saboor posted to Google+
Google+ Review

Fantastic firm! I was traveling 3 hours away when I got a ticket and Azria & Bruffett took care of everything! I only had to answer a few emails! They were in constant contact with me throughout the entire process and got my ticket reduced to no points. I give them the highest recommendation!