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
Happy with the Service

I was coming back home (Canada) when I got pulled over for doing 81 in 65 zone. I had no clue as in what to do. If I would've just simply paid the fine I would've lost 3 points in Canada on my license. So I googled lawyer and Seth's name came up. Contacted him and he advised me how he will pursue this ticket and what would be the likely outcome of it. What he said come out to be exactly that. VERY HAPPY WITH THE RESULT. I WILL RECOMMEND HIM.

Varun posted to Avvo
Google Review

I received a speeding violation back in December 2020 and is now dismissed. Seth Azria and firm has done an excellent job in getting the ticket dismissed successfully. The entire staff has been very professional, quick and responsive. I really appreciate their service and give them a 5 star. I would be happy to refer them to my friends.

Thanks

Google+ Review

Great Law firm for Traffic tickets. I would definitely recommend to everyone! Im from out of town, they made this process so easy. Cant thank them enough

Google+ Review

Being from out of state, I was happy to find a law firm that was so easy to work with. They were able to get my ticket reduced and they did all the leg work for me. Everything was very straight forward and easy to understand. Hopefully I won't need them in the future but if I do, I know where to turn!