CAN I ELIMINATE TRAFFIC FINES IN BANKRUPTCY IN NEW JERSEY?

by | Jul 20, 2021 | Bankruptcy Law, Chapter 7, Firm News |

Let’s say you are driving North on Route 130 in Willingboro NJ and you are stopped by a police officer for speeding and receive a speeding ticket. A few weeks later you appear in the Willingboro Municipal Court before the Honorable Judge Harold George and he determines that you must pay a fine and court costs. Can you file a chapter 7 bankruptcy and eliminate the debt? The answer is you cannot. Certain types of claims, such as child support, student loans and other things as well as fines are not dischargeable. The fine is intended to punish the driver. If it was a reimbursement to the Township for debt the Township incurred because of you that would be different. However, it is worth noting that in New Jersey, surcharges can be discharged. In addition, filing a bankruptcy typically will eliminate other debts to make it easier to afford the fine. When faced with Municipal fines or surcharges, it would make sense to consult with an attorney.

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