Rumson Criminal & Traffic Offenses: What You Need to Know

Living in Rumson, we all know that traffic tickets and criminal charges can happen from time to time. It’s important to understand your rights and the potential consequences when faced with criminal or traffic offenses in Rumson. This article provides an overview of common criminal and traffic violations in Rumson, as well as defenses and the legal process.

Common Traffic Violations in Rumson

Some of the most common traffic tickets issued in Rumson include:

• Speeding – Exceeding posted speed limits is likely the most common traffic violation in Rumson. Fines and points increase the faster you are clocked going over the limit. An attorney can often negotiate a plea deal to a lesser offense or get charges dismissed.
• DUI – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries severe penalties in New Jersey. Experienced DUI lawyers know how to challenge breath and blood test results as well as other evidence.
• Reckless Driving – Weaving through traffic, racing, tailgating, and other forms of aggressive driving may lead to reckless driving charges. Penalties include fines, points, license suspension, and even jail time in some cases.
• Careless Driving – Driving in a way that causes an accident or injury can result in careless driving citations. Common defenses include sudden emergency, mechanical failure, and more.
• Traffic Light Violations – Running a red light or stop sign leads to expensive tickets and points on your license. An attorney may be able to plea bargain for no points or get charges dismissed.
• Cell Phone/Texting – New Jersey has strict laws against using handheld cell phones and texting while driving. Fines start at $200-$400 plus points for first offenses.
• Driving with a Suspended License – Getting caught driving on a suspended license triggers mandatory additional license suspension, fines, and potential jail time. Defenses may apply in certain situations.
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident – Failing to stop after an accident can lead to serious criminal charges. An attorney can argue mitigating factors and seek to minimize penalties.

Defenses for Criminal and Traffic Charges

There are many potential defenses that a skilled lawyer can raise in fighting criminal and traffic charges in Rumson, including:

• Illegal Search and Seizure – Evidence obtained through an unconstitutional search can be suppressed. This applies to searches without probable cause or a warrant.
• Miranda Rights Violations – Statements made to police before being read your Miranda rights may be inadmissible.
• Misidentification – Eyewitness misidentification is a common cause of wrongful convictions. An attorney can challenge questionable ID procedures.
• Entrapment – When police improperly induce you to commit a crime you otherwise wouldn’t, an entrapment defense may apply.
• Self-Defense – Using reasonable force to protect yourself or others against harm may justify assault, weapons and other charges.
• Necessity – Breaking the law out of necessity to prevent greater harm may be justified in certain situations.
• Lack of Criminal Intent – The prosecution must prove you intended to commit a crime. For many charges, a lack of intent is a valid defense.

The Legal Process in Rumson

Here is a basic overview of the legal process for criminal and traffic cases in Rumson:

• Arrest – Police arrest suspects and take them to the station for booking and processing. You have the right to know why you were arrested.
• Charges Filed – The prosecution files formal charges, either by complaint-summons for less serious crimes or indictment for more serious felonies.
• First Court Appearance – At your first hearing, you enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. Bail may be set at this time. Do not plead guilty without talking to an attorney!
• Pretrial Motions – Your lawyer can file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges and more. Negotiating a plea deal is also common at this stage.
• Trial – If no plea agreement is reached, your case will go to trial before a judge or jury. The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Sentencing – If convicted, the judge will impose sentencing ranging from fines and probation to extensive jail time depending on the charges.

Having an experienced local criminal defense lawyer in your corner can make all the difference in navigating the complex legal system and achieving the most favorable outcome possible. Don’t go it alone!