Coram Nobis Motions for Traffic Tickets in New York

You pleaded guilty without understanding the point consequences. Many drivers pay a ticket by mail or online without realizing the conviction carries enough points to trigger a suspension. A plea entered without that knowledge may not be considered knowing and voluntary.

You were not warned about the Driver Responsibility Assessment. New York’s DRA imposes additional fees of $100 to $300 per year for three years on drivers who accumulate six or more points within 18 months. Most drivers have no idea this exists when they pay the ticket. Under the February 2026 changes, the separate DMV administrative look-back is now 24 months — meaning convictions overlap longer and trigger consequences sooner.

Multiple convictions pushed you over the edge. A single ticket may seem minor, but combined with prior convictions it can result in license suspension or revocation under VTL § 510. If you did not understand the cumulative effect when you entered the plea — especially now that the look-back window is 24 months instead of 18 — coram nobis relief may be available.

You are a CDL holder and were not advised of the commercial consequences. Certain convictions carry mandatory CDL disqualification periods under federal and state law — consequences that go far beyond what an ordinary driver faces and that courts often fail to explain. A CDL holder who pleads guilty to speeding 15+ mph over the limit without understanding it counts as a “Serious Traffic Violation” may have grounds for relief.

You received an unexpected license suspension or revocation. If the DMV suspended or revoked your license based on a conviction you entered without understanding these consequences, a successful coram nobis motion can remove the underlying conviction and open the door to restoring your driving privileges.

You pleaded guilty before February 16, 2026 without knowing the rules would change. Drivers who accepted a plea under the old 18-month look-back may now face harsher consequences they never anticipated under the new 24-month system. While this is a newer argument, it underscores how a plea entered without full knowledge of the consequences may not have been truly voluntary.

The guilty plea is vacated

The conviction is removed from your driving record as if the plea was never entered.

The case is reopened

You are restored to your position before the plea. You can fight the charge, negotiate a reduction, or enter a new plea with full knowledge.

Consequences may be reversed

Points come off. DRA fees may be eliminated. Insurance impacts can be addressed. If your license was suspended, restoration becomes possible.