Fighting a Traffic Ticket in New York

If you’ve ever driven through Albany, Schenectady, Troy, or Saratoga Springs, you know how easy it is to end up with a traffic ticket. Whether it’s a speeding violation on I-87, a red-light ticket in downtown Albany, or a cell phone violation while commuting, traffic tickets in New York State are more than just an inconvenience—they can affect your license, your insurance rates, and even your job if you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

At Seraj Law, we regularly help drivers in the Capital Region navigate the complexities of New York’s traffic courts. In this article, we’ll break down what you need to know about traffic tickets in the Capital Region, including the process, potential penalties, and why having legal representation matters.

Common Traffic Tickets in the Capital Region

Drivers in Albany County, Schenectady County, Rensselaer County, and Saratoga County often face tickets for:

• Speeding (especially on the Northway/I-87, I-90, and the Thruway)
• Failure to obey traffic control devices (running red lights, stop signs, or ignoring lane restrictions)
• Cell phone and texting violations (a 5-point violation under NY law)
• Reckless driving (a misdemeanor offense, not just a traffic infraction)
• Failure to yield to pedestrians or emergency vehicles
• Driving with a suspended license (Aggravated Unlicensed Operation)

Each of these offenses carries its own penalties, ranging from fines to points on your license.

The Point System in New York State

The New York State DMV Point System assigns points to moving violations. Accumulating too many points within 18 months can lead to suspension and other penalties. For example:

• Speeding 11–20 mph over the limit: 4 points
• Speeding 21–30 mph over the limit: 6 points
• Using a cell phone or texting: 5 points
• Reckless driving: 5 points
• Failure to yield right of way: 3 points

If you reach 11 points in 18 months, the DMV may suspend your license. Even fewer points can drastically increase your insurance premiums.

Capital Region Traffic Courts: What to Expect

Unlike New York City, which uses the Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB), traffic cases in the Capital Region are handled by local town, village, and city courts. For example:

• Albany City Court: handles tickets within city limits.
• Colonie Town Court: one of the busiest traffic courts in the state, located right off the Northway.
• Guilderland, Bethlehem, Clifton Park, Halfmoon, and East Greenbush Courts: all see high volumes of traffic cases.

Each court has its own procedures and prosecutors, which is why local experience matters. At Seraj Law, we regularly appear in these courts and know how to negotiate effectively with prosecutors to reduce charges and points.

Why Hire a Lawyer for a Traffic Ticket?

Many drivers wonder if it’s worth hiring an attorney for a “simple” traffic ticket. The reality is, representation often pays for itself:

1. Protecting Your License: An attorney can often negotiate a reduction to a non-moving violation, saving you points.
2. Saving Time: In most cases, we can appear on your behalf, so you don’t have to take time off work or travel to court.
3. Reducing Insurance Premiums: Even one ticket can cause insurance hikes that last for years. A strong defense saves you money long term.
4. Avoiding a Criminal Record: Some traffic offenses, like reckless driving or aggravated unlicensed operation, are misdemeanors. We protect your record and your future.

How Seraj Law Can Help

At Seraj Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty a traffic ticket can bring. Our firm takes a strategic, results-driven approach to traffic defense in the Capital Region. Here’s how we can help:

• Review your ticket and driving record to determine the best defense strategy.
• Negotiate with local prosecutors for reduced charges and fewer points.
• Represent you in court so you don’t have to appear.
• Advise on long-term license protection, especially for CDL holders and professionals who rely on a clean driving record.

We pride ourselves on clear communication, efficiency, and practical solutions that minimize disruption to your life.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve received a traffic ticket in Albany, Schenectady, Troy, Saratoga Springs, or anywhere in the Capital Region, don’t ignore it—and don’t simply plead guilty without understanding the consequences. Even a minor violation can snowball into higher insurance premiums, license suspensions, and serious legal problems.

Seraj Law is here to guide you through the process and fight for the best possible outcome.

Contact Seraj Law today at (518) 941-8579 for a consultation and let us help you protect your license, your wallet, and your peace of mind.