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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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I had a speeding ticket in NY state in may. I was within 20-30 miles over the limit and it would have been 6 demerit points in NY state. After checking lawyer reviews in google and talking to few firms, I decided to go with Seth. He was very prompt in answering all my questions before I signed up with him and also after that. He got my 6 demerit points reduced to 0 and made it a parking violation charge. I strongly recommend Seth.

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I highly recommend Seth Azria if you have a traffic ticket that you need taken care of. I called, left a message and got a return call back from him within an hour. Information was exchanged, a fee agreed upon and he took things from there. He provided excellent communication during each step of the process and the whole matter was settled within two months. I will definitely call him again if the need arises.

speeding Ticket dismissal

I were given a speeding ticket in Otego New York, which the law office of attorney Azria was able to get dismiss. I am from Boston Mass and did not have to travel outside my state to hire attorney azria i was able to paid his fee with my credit card, and did not have to go to court or anything he was able to get everything resolve and they kept me informed at all time in the process can said enough about their services i am very pleased with the overall service, and i will definitely recommend them.

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