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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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Professional, quick and both tickets dismissed. Very pleased!

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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I received a speeding ticket in upstate New York (30 mph above speed limit) - this was a 6 point hike on my insurance + fines up to $385. I hired Seth over the phone (I live out-of-state), paid my fees, and crossed my fingers. Wow. My case was resolved in around a month to 0 points and a fine of $135. 100% of my communication after our initial call was over e-mail.

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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.