I Got a Ticket for Driving on Suspended License

[Amberite]

My question involves a driver's license issued by the State of: New Jersey.

In February, while waiting to pick someone up at Newark International Airport, I got a ticket for "obstructing traffic" because I was parked on the side of the road. It's a $50, no point ticket, and I completely forgot about it. In the meantime, I never got any notices at home about this ticket or any suspension, but apparently I was suspended for not paying the ticket.

Today, I got pulled over and the cop said I have a suspended license, which was news to me. Obviously, I then remembered that ticket I got in Newark. The ticket does not state that court appearance is required.

I am reading about the penalties for this ticket, and it's horrifying. It says first penalty is $500 PLUS losing license up to 6 months PLUS up to 9 points (!?)...

My question is - will I really lose my license up to 6 months and get all these points just because I was driving while suspended for such a small ticket? Should I get a lawyer? Should I try to fight this court? Please help - I'm terrified.

Thanks.

[LawResearcherMissy]

You certainly can. No one here can tell you whether or not you actually will or will not. The amount of your original ticket is irrelevant - you didn't take care of it, and your license was suspended. The court is unconcerned with the why of it.

Yes, get an attorney. The penalties you're facing are pretty stiff, you'll really want professional assistance here.

[Mr. Knowitall]

Pay your ticket and get your license reinstated, then document that to the prosecutor to try to get the DWLS charge reduced or dismissed. If you wish, you may retain an attorney to assist and advise you in that process.

Normally I would expect a notice of the suspension to be sent to your home. Have you consistently kept the address on your driver's license up-to-date?