Questions from drivers about VTL § 306-e, Fictitious Inspection Certificate, answered by the Benjamin Goldman Law Office. For penalties, points, and defense options, read the VTL § 306-e, Fictitious Inspection Certificate.
Could I face a felony charge for putting another vehicle’s registration sticker on my car? My friend had the car for about nine months. The inspection had run out around five months after he bought it, so he removed a sticker from an old car at work and used it temporarily while he was trying to repair the car and have it inspected again.
What could happen if I return to court on my own for a misdemeanor involving an inspection sticker I did not know was fake? I was pulled over for allegedly going 45 in a 30 while driving downhill. I have a clean record. The officer said the system showed no inspection since February 2018, but my husband had the car inspected. Then the officer said the sticker was fraudulent. I brought my inspection receipt to court, but the judge did not look at it. The judge said it was a misdemeanor, told me to come back, and asked whether I could hire an attorney. I cannot afford one. They gave me legal-aid information, but I would have to miss work, wait at a first-come, first-served office, and bring documents like my deed, tax information, and pay stubs. My job is very short-staffed and I cannot easily take time off. What is the worst outcome if I go back without a lawyer?
The most severe possible consequence is jail, although that is unlikely. A more realistic concern if the matter is not handled correctly is ending up with a permanent criminal record. Hiring a capable attorney would be a worthwhile investment.
What kind of fine am I looking at for VTL 306E? I was using my boyfriend's vehicle and later found out he had put a phony inspection sticker on it. I had no idea about that. I'm 70 and honestly do not keep track of the car's maintenance. The tickets were for VTL 306B and 306E. What could happen to me?
The judge sets the actual amount. The maximum fine for VTL 306B is $243, while VTL 306E can carry up to $393. More significantly, though, a 306E allegation is a criminal matter.
Can I get arrested in New York for driving a car with an inspection sticker that turned out to be illegal if I had no idea? An officer saw the sticker, said it was fake, but did not tell me why. I was handcuffed, arrested, photographed, fingerprinted, and charged with third-degree criminal possession, which I was told is a felony. I do not own the car. Can I still be charged and have this put on my record?
That is not the usual charge under these facts, but the arrest may fall within the officer's discretion. The officer was not required to tell you, during the arrest, what facts led him to believe the sticker was fraudulent. Whether there was sufficient probable cause for your arrest can be contested in court.
Are police officers allowed to ask for social security number when being pulled over? I was pulled over because my inspection sticker to my vehicle that was purchased from a car shop was fake without my knowledge. .I gave the police my license and registration he then went to proceed to ask me for my SSN which I didn't understand what he needed for when he wrote me a ticket for my inspection sticker
They're allowed to ask – you do not have to answer any questions except provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. You need to be careful not to drive with fake inspection stickers. You're bound to get pulled over, and you can get hit with criminal charges.
Disclaimer: All the content of this website has been prepared by Benjamin Goldman Law Office PC for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this site does not create an attorney–client relationship. Readers should not act or refrain from acting based on this information without seeking professional counsel from an attorney licensed in the state where the citation was issued.
Benjamin Goldman Law Office
You could face criminal charges for that. It is a very bad idea.