Prayer for Judgement in Raleigh

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.

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 Prayer for Judgements.

If granted, Prayer for Judgement can result in increased insurance rates, driver’s license suspension, employment and housing issues, and other situations that involve background checks. Although points may not be added to you license, you may have your license suspended. At Cotten Law Firm, our PJC attorney in Raleigh can help you determine whether or not this is the best choice for your unique situation.

Can I Use a PJC?

We like to remind our clients on 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

Cotten Law Firm 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, our Raleigh PJC attorney is prepared to help you understand the charges against you and all of the options available.