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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.

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Seth Azria is a brilliant traffic attorney. I had a near perfect driving record for nearly 38 years and then got two speeding tickets on Route 17. He did a superb job for handling both tickets and getting me just a small five an no points on each tickets. Highly professional, excellent service and great results!!!

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I have hired the Azria law firm twice to represent my daughter, once for speeding and the other was an accident. Both times I was extremely pleased with the outcome, in both cases they were dropped to no pointers. Everything was handled through e-mail, which was very convenient and in both cases were taken care of from start to finish within a month. I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you again for all of your help.

A Car Accident Client posted to Avvo
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent Legal Representation – Highly Recommended!

My son was travelling on Interstate 90 through upstate New York when he received a traffic ticket for failing to yield to an emergency vehicle, an offence that carried three demerit points.

We contacted Mr. Seth Azria, Esq., who took on our case with professionalism, confidence, and genuine care. From our first conversation, he reassured us that he could help and clearly explained how he would approach the case.

True to his word, Mr. Azria represented my son in court and successfully negotiated a reduction of the charge to zero demerit points.

What impressed me most was not only the successful outcome but also his confidence, honesty, and dedication to his clients. He delivered exactly what he said he would.

I am extremely grateful for his excellent legal representation and would highly recommend Mr. Seth Azria to anyone facing a traffic violation in New York State.

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I had a great experience with Mr. Azria. He handled all of my needs and helped me through the process. I 100% recommend and will use again!