by Gail Clute

Created on: July 08, 2008

Woodbridge New Jersey Misdemeanor and Traffic Court

One of the greatest days in the life of an American teenager is the day when they pass the drivers road test allowing them to drive any place they want. The days leading up to the test are hard on anyone living with them. In advance of the 16th birthday, an appointment must be made with the Department of Motor Vehicles. All documents must be obtained, birth certificate, learners permit, insurance and proof of drivers' education.

Nothing is easy. One daughter had a hard time driving the only car we owned-a large 9 passenger station wagon. She made the test harder the first try by driving though a stop sign. The second time she flunked parallel parking. The third time, a friend took her in a compact car. She passed.

A few years later, the next daughter did not want to drive a manual transmission-again the only car we owned. After hours of jerky practice, she found a car to borrow and passed the first time.

Now, it was my son's turn. He could drive a truck, a van, a five speed, a junker or a limo. No tears, no problems, he was a joy to teach. He did not need a new outfit to wear for the test. He was calm, cool and collected. He passed with 100% correct skills. It was about the only test he took where he earned 100%.

There was one small little problem with him, follow through. Three months after one receives temporary license, one must return to the DMV for a replacement permanent license. No appointment needed. Just get in line show all your proofs, insurance card and current license, and give them $5.00. They take a new picture and give you a two-year license.

While driving through a school parking lot about nine months later, he is pulled over for a routine stop. He was not committing any offence. He had his wallet. He had not turned in his expired tempory license. The officer issued him a summons to traffic court.

Paralyzed with fear, he told us he had to bring a parent with him to traffic court. His sisters insisted upon going with him. So the following Thursday, with the guilty driver all cleaned up with a tie and chinos, we headed off to court.

What we did not know was that misdemeanor court and traffic court were held at the same time in the same courtroom. We sat there while case after case was called. Some defendants were given fines. Some defendants were not present and a police officer was sent out to find them and bring them to court. Some defendants were lead away in hand cuffs.

While all this was happening, my sons eyes grew wider and wider. His sisters were in tears. The room was empty when he was called to the bench.

The judge said, "Son, where is your license?"
He replied that he did not have one.

The judge said, "Son, what have you been doing these last 5 days?"

He replied that he was crying.

The judge said, "Son, do you think you could go get it tomorrow?"

He replied that he would do that.

The judge said, "Son, do not let me see you in here again. Case dismissed!"

He stood there for a moment and then said thank you judge over and over.
His sisters said is that all? He's done? We raced out of the court.

The following day, he returned home with his permanent license.

Case closed!

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