Tuesday, August 19, 2014

New Paltz Traffic Ticket Lawyer’s Guide

Fight Your Ticket And Save Money, Time, and Points

If you are reading this blog, there is a good chance that you were pulled over for speeding and your ticket is returnable to the New Paltz Town Court.


Did you know that less than 1% of all ticketed drivers will hire an experienced law firm to help them fight the ticket?  It’s true.  This mistake could cost hundreds of dollars in needless fine, penalties, insurance increases and time wasted.

We Can Help

Join the thousands of drivers that have saved money, time, and points on their license by hiring Joseph P. Villanueva.  He is a former New York City prosecutor with a keen understanding of the vehicle traffic law.  We have a statewide practice and have excelled at getting tickets either dismissed or reduced.

About The Court

New Paltz Court maintains a busy traffic court session.  It has two presiding judges that handle a wide variety of civil, criminal, and traffic cases.

On the civil side, these cases are usually referred to as small claims cases.  On the criminal side, the majority of cases are misdemeanor and offenses.  

Traffic court can include but not be limited to cases such as speeding under VTL 1180 and Move Over Law cases under VTL 1144-a.

Court Location

New Paltz Town Court
23 Plattekill Avenue
New Paltz, New York 12561


What Is The Role Of The Prosecutor?

The prosecutor has the power to review the traffic summons and tender a reduction if it is warranted.  

Depending on the municipality, a traffic prosecutor can be the District Attorney, Town Attorney, Retained Counsel, or the officer that issued the ticket.

If the case should proceed to trial, the prosecutor is responsible for presenting the State’s case.

What Is The Role Of the Judge?

In traffic court, the judge has many duties.  A large portion of the judge’s time will be spent on accepting or rejecting the negotiated plea with the prosecutor.  If a plea is reached, a fine is usually assessed.  If a plea cannot be reached, the case is usually adjourned for trial.

At trial, the judge will determine the final outcome of the case.

When Are Fines Paid?

It is the court’s preference that fines be paid at the time the plea is entered.  Under extreme circumstances, the judge may grant extra time to pay the fine.

What Can Happen If I Fail To Pay My Fine?

When a driver fails to pay a fine, the court will suspend their license.

What Can Happen If I Miss My Court Date?

Similar to missing the deadline to pay a fine, the court can suspend a person’s privilege to drive for their failure to appear in court.

What Should I Do If I Lost My Ticket?

You should call the clerk of the court and ask for a duplicate copy.  Furthermore, don’t forget to enter a timely plea.  A driver’s failure to do so could also result in a license suspension.

This Is The First Ticket I’ve Received. Shouldn’t That Help?

A driver’s record is one consideration for the prosecutor and judge.  It does not absolve a driver from breaking the law.


Call Us

If you need help fighting a ticket in New Paltz Court, give our speeding ticket defense law firm a call today.  We can be reached at 800-893-9645.