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Prayer For Judgement In Raleigh

Last updated on August 18, 2025

What Is A Prayer For Judgement?

Unique to North Carolina, a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) is often used in traffic violations. It allows someone to plead guilty and ask for a “Prayer for Judgement,” meaning the offense isn’t entered against you.

For example, you plead guilty to a speeding ticket, then ask for Prayer for Judgement. If granted, the license points will not be added to your record.

However, it’s important to note that a PJC is not a “get out of jail free card.” While it can help avoid points in many cases, you will still be responsible for court costs and certain consequences may still apply depending on your driving record and the specific facts of your case.

Understanding PJC’s And Knowing When To Use Them

While this sounds like a great deal, a successful petition is not guaranteed or automatic. In addition, Prayer for Judgements can only be used twice in five years per household. Judges use a lot of discretion and vary widely in their granting of Prayer for Judgements.

If granted, Prayer for Judgement can result in:

Increased insurance rates
Driver’s license suspension
Employment and housing issues
Other situations that involve background checks

Although points may not be added to your license, you may have your license suspended. At Cotten Law Firm, PLLC, our PJC attorney in Raleigh can help you determine whether or not this is the best choice for your unique situation.

Recent Developments

The North Carolina DMV has recently begun denying PJCs for certain high-speed violations, even when a judge grants one. For instance, if the original charge is for driving more than 25 mph over the speed limit, a PJC may not prevent a license suspension—even if your speed is reduced in court. Many North Carolinians have been surprised to find their license suspended after receiving a PJC, particularly when the original speed exceeded 25 mph over the limit or when the posted limit was below 65 mph.

If your license is suspended after a PJC, you may need to file a Motion for Appropriate Relief or take legal action to address the situation. This is a developing area of law, and our firm is experienced in helping clients navigate these complex DMV challenges.

If you are ready to petition for Prayer of Judgement, schedule your free consultation with us today. We work tirelessly to help clients across Wake County protect their futures!

Can I Use A PJC?

We like to remind our clients on the proper use of Prayer for Judgement continued. There are some factors to keep in mind before deciding to petition. Our Raleigh defense lawyers are ready to assist you through this process and can help you understand the pros and cons of the situation.

Factors to keep in mind when determining whether or not you want to try for a PJC:

When you try to use a PJC, you are pleading guilty – but have no guarantee that the judge will approve.
This is not an option for DWI or speeding tickets over 15mph.
DMV only recognizes two PJCs every 5 years
Most insurance policies recognize only one PJC every three years. Starting July 1, 2025, this changes to one PJC every five years per household for insurance purposes. Using more than one PJC within five years can result in insurance points and higher premiums
A PJC is not allowed if the original speed is more than 25 mph over the limit. For example, if you were cited for 91 in a 65 mph zone, you are not eligible for a PJC on the original charge. If your speed is negotiated down in court, a PJC may be considered, but recent DMV interpretations could still result in a license suspension even with a PJC.
Commercial drivers are not eligible for a PJC, regardless of the offense

Cotten Law Firm, PLLC Can Help

As with most things, a PJC can be a great option in certain circumstances, but not ideal for others – it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. At Cotten Law Firm, PLLC, our Raleigh PJC attorney is prepared to help you understand the charges against you and all of the options available.

With recent changes in DMV enforcement and new insurance laws that took effect July 1, 2025, the rules around using a PJC are more complicated than ever. If you or a household member has already used a PJC in the last five years, or if your case involves a high-speed violation, contact us before making any decisions.

If you are facing criminal charges in Raleigh or anywhere in Wake County, schedule a free case review with our defense attorneys by calling us at 984-600-3090 to protect your future.

Every case is unique. The law is changing rapidly, and recent DMV and insurance company policies may affect your eligibility and the benefit of a PJC. Our experienced attorneys will help you determine if a PJC is right for you and can assist with appeals or motions if you unexpectedly lose your license after a PJC. Contact Cotten Law Firm today for the most up-to-date legal advice on PJCs in North Carolina.