Prayer for Judgment (PJC) in NC

In North Carolina, Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) is a unique legal option that allows individuals to avoid the full consequences of a conviction for certain offenses, particularly traffic violations. At Bryon M. Smith, Attorney At Law<, we have extensive experience helping clients use PJC to protect their driving records and avoid the harsher penalties of a traffic violation or misdemeanor conviction.

What Is Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC)?

A Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) is essentially a legal tool that allows the court to continue the judgment against you indefinitely. When a PJC is granted, you are technically found guilty of the offense, but no conviction is entered on your record. This means that the typical penalties, such as points on your license, fines, or increased insurance rates, may be avoided.

However, it’s important to understand that PJC is not available for all offenses, and there are limitations on its use. PJC is most commonly granted for minor traffic violations or non-violent misdemeanors, and there are rules regarding how many times you can request a PJC.

When Can PJC Be Used?

In North Carolina, PJC is most often used for:

• Minor Traffic Violations: Speeding tickets, running a stop sign or red light, and other moving violations are common offenses where PJC may be requested.
• Non-Violent Misdemeanors: PJC can also be used for certain non-violent misdemeanor charges, such as trespassing or petty theft.

However, PJC is not an option for all charges. It cannot be used for DWI (Driving While Impaired) offenses, and some courts may restrict its use in cases involving more serious or repeat offenses.

Limitations on Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC)

While PJC can be a valuable tool, there are important restrictions:

• Family Use Limit: Only two PJCs are allowed per household within a three-year period for insurance purposes. If more than two PJCs are granted within this period, insurance companies may still apply the usual premium increases.
• Driver’s License Points: While PJC can prevent the addition of points to your driver’s license, it does not completely eliminate the possibility of consequences. Certain offenses, such as speeding over 25 mph above the limit, may still result in penalties even with a PJC.
• Court’s Discretion: Granting PJC is ultimately at the discretion of the judge. The court may consider factors such as your driving history and the severity of the offense when deciding whether to grant a PJC.

Benefits of Prayer for Judgment Continued

When used appropriately, a PJC can help:

• Avoid Points on Your License: One of the main benefits of a PJC is that it can prevent points from being added to your driver’s license, which helps avoid license suspension and increased insurance rates.
• No Impact on Insurance: For many traffic violations, PJC can prevent insurance companies from increasing your premiums, which can save you money in the long run.
• Maintain a Clean Record: By avoiding a formal conviction, PJC helps you keep a clean criminal or traffic record, which is especially important if you rely on your driving privileges for work or personal needs.

Why You Need an Attorney to Request PJC

Requesting PJC is not as simple as asking for it in court. There are specific legal guidelines and limitations that must be followed, and judges may not grant PJC without a solid argument. An experienced attorney like Bryon M. Smith can:

• Evaluate Your Eligibility: Not all offenses qualify for PJC, and it’s important to have an attorney review your case to determine if this option is available to you.
• Present a Strong Argument: We will advocate on your behalf, presenting the necessary arguments and evidence to show why PJC is the best resolution for your case.
• Protect Your Record: With our knowledge of local court procedures and experience in traffic and criminal defense, we can help you navigate the process and work to protect your driving record and insurance rates.

Is PJC Right for You?

If you are facing a minor traffic violation or non-violent misdemeanor in North Carolina, Prayer for Judgment Continued may be an option worth considering. However, it’s important to fully understand the limitations and long-term implications before deciding to pursue PJC. Bryon M. Smith, Attorney At Law can help you assess whether PJC is the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.

Contact Bryon M. Smith, Attorney At Law, for PJC Assistance

If you are dealing with a traffic violation or non-violent misdemeanor and want to explore your options for Prayer for Judgment Continued, contact Bryon M. Smith, Attorney At Law today. We can guide you through the process and help you protect your driving record and future. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.