NJ Falsifying a Driver’s License Application Lawyers

Fighting Charges for False NJ Driver’s License Applications

In New Jersey, providing false information on applications for driver’s licenses or identification cards is against the law and can lead to criminal charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal system if you face allegations of falsifying your New Jersey MVC paperwork.

New Jersey Law on False Driver’s License Applications

There are two main criminal statutes that apply to providing false information to obtain a New Jersey driver’s license or ID card:

• N.J.S.A. 2C:21-2.1(c) – Displaying or presenting false documents, like a fake driver’s license, birth certificate, or Social Security card.
• N.J.S.A. 2C:21-17 – Giving false information to the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) on applications to obtain a license or ID card.

Both offenses are considered crimes of the fourth degree under New Jersey law. Fourth-degree crimes carry penalties of up to 18 months in jail and fines up to $10,000 [2].

Common Ways False Information is Used

Some examples of falsifying information on New Jersey driver’s license or ID card applications include:

• Providing a false name or date of birth
• Using someone else’s Social Security number
• Submitting fake utility bills or other residency documents
• Presenting a realistic but forged license from another state
• Lying about medical conditions to avoid testing requirements

Any material misstatement or use of counterfeit documents in the MVC licensing process could lead to criminal charges [1].

Penalties Beyond Criminal Charges

In addition to potential jail time and fines from criminal charges, other consequences can include:

• Loss of driving privileges in New Jersey
• Points assessed against your driver’s record
• Surcharges and increased insurance premiums
• License suspension or revocation
• Difficulty obtaining legal status if case involves immigration issues

So the stakes are high if caught using false information. An experienced attorney can help minimize damage [1].

Fighting the Charges in Court

Although the penalties can be severe, there are ways a knowledgeable lawyer can fight the charges:

• File motions contesting improper police procedures
• Suppress evidence gathered through unconstitutional means
• Argue you did not “knowingly” commit fraud if errors were unintentional
• Negotiate dismissal of charges through pre-trial intervention
• Highlight mitigating circumstances and first-time offender status

An effective legal strategy can sometimes lead to charges being dismissed or downgraded to lesser offenses [1].

Plea Bargaining Strategies

If the charges cannot be completely dismissed, an attorney can often negotiate favorable plea bargains such as:

• Applying for conditional discharge to avoid a criminal record
• Pleading to a disorderly persons offense rather than a criminal charge
• Reducing penalties or fines
• Avoiding driver’s license suspension
• Completing community service rather than jail time

The prosecutor may agree to lesser penalties to avoid time-consuming trials [1].

Getting Your License Back

If your license is suspended or revoked, a lawyer can assist you in petitioning the MVC for restoration of privileges. This may involve:

• Providing evidence you had no intent to defraud
• Requesting a hearing to argue for reinstatement
• Filing necessary paperwork and petitions with the MVC
• Negotiating limited license terms for work, school, or medical needs

With an attorney’s help, you may be able to regain your driving privileges sooner [1].

Defending Out-of-State Clients

For out-of-state drivers charged in New Jersey, key legal strategies a lawyer may use include:

• Transferring the case to your home jurisdiction
• Minimizing court appearances so you don’t have to return to NJ
• Resolving the matter by mail with prosecutors
• Seeking reciprocity of any home-state penalties already imposed
• Applying for participation in out-of-state diversion programs

Your attorney’s goal will be resolving the issue with as little disruption and travel as possible [1].

Finding the Right Lawyer

When facing allegations of New Jersey driver’s license application fraud, key credentials for an attorney include:

• Extensive experience fighting criminal charges in New Jersey
• Successful track record resolving fraud cases
• Strong relationships with local prosecutors and judges
• Deep knowledge of state motor vehicle laws and processes
• Resources to thoroughly examine the evidence

An attorney well-versed in both criminal defense and MVC regulations can best protect your rights in this situation [1].

Act Fast to Protect Yourself

Never try to handle allegations of driver’s license application fraud yourself without an attorney. The laws are complex and the penalties severe. The sooner you engage an experienced lawyer, the better [1].

With skilled legal guidance, you can minimize impacts to your criminal record, driving privileges, finances, and immigration status.

References

• [1] Using False Information to Obtain a NJ Driver’s License
• [2] Getting Caught With a Fake ID in New Jersey
• New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
• N.J.S.A. 2C:21-17 – Fraud in Procuring Documents
• N.J.S.A. 2C:21-2.1 – Impersonation; Theft of Identity; Crime