If you have received a traffic citation or are dealing with a low-level criminal charge in Franklin County, North Carolina, you may hear the phrase “PJC” mentioned in court. A PJC—short for Prayer for Judgment Continued—can be a valuable legal tool in certain circumstances, but it is often misunderstood and frequently misused. When handled incorrectly, a PJC can actually create long-term problems rather than solve them.
This article explains what a PJC is under North Carolina law, how it functions, and when it may—or may not—be the right option for your case.
Understanding a PJC in North Carolina
A Prayer for Judgment Continued is a unique judicial disposition available only in North Carolina. When a judge grants a PJC, the court continues judgment indefinitely rather than entering a traditional sentence. Because PJCs are unique to this state, they are often not recognized by other jurisdictions, which can be especially important for out-of-state drivers cited in North Carolina.
PJCs are most commonly used in traffic matters to help prevent points from being assessed against a driver’s license or insurance. In rare circumstances, a PJC may also be used in criminal cases—both misdemeanors and felonies—but this is uncommon.
Whether a PJC is granted is entirely within the judge’s discretion. Judges may also ask the District Attorney for their position before deciding whether to allow it.
Legal Limits and Common Misunderstandings
North Carolina law places strict limits on when a PJC can be used:
- A judge is prohibited from granting a PJC if the charged speed exceeds 25 miles per hour over the posted limit.
- A PJC cannot be used for Driving While Impaired (DWI) charges.
- PJCs are limited in number based on insurance and DMV regulations, which were most recently updated effective July 1, 2025.
Many people request a PJC without realizing that the District Attorney may be willing to reduce a ticket to a non-moving violation. In some cases, accepting a reduction instead of using a PJC can preserve your ability to use a PJC later for a more serious matter.
Self-represented defendants frequently make costly mistakes by requesting a PJC when they have already used one. If multiple PJCs are applied improperly, they can cancel each other out, resulting in insurance increases for all affected citations.
It is also critical to understand that PJCs provide no benefit whatsoever for holders of a commercial driver’s license (CDL). North Carolina does not recognize PJCs for CDL purposes.
Criminal Record and Cost Implications
In many situations, a PJC still constitutes a guilty plea and a conviction. For higher-speed offenses—often charged as Class 3 misdemeanors—a PJC may still appear on a criminal background check.
When a PJC is granted, the judge may assess court costs only (typically $191 or $193). The court may not impose jail time, probation, or additional fines. There is ongoing legal debate regarding whether a PJC can be expunged under N.C.G.S. § 15A-145.5, making long-term consequences an important consideration.
When Using a PJC May Make Sense
A PJC can be effective when used strategically rather than automatically.
Minor Traffic Offenses
PJCs are commonly considered for non-serious traffic violations such as:
- Speeding
- Equipment violations
- Failure to obey traffic control devices
- Other routine moving violations
In appropriate cases, a PJC may help prevent license points and insurance increases. However, insurance companies are not required to honor the court’s decision, which is why professional legal guidance is essential.
First-Time or Isolated Violations
Courts may view a PJC more favorably when:
- The driver has a clean or minimal record
- A PJC has not been used recently
- There are no aggravating factors such as accidents, injuries, or extreme speeds
In these cases, a PJC may be treated as a second chance rather than a routine request.
Preserving PJCs for the Future
North Carolina strictly limits how often a PJC can shield a driver from points:
- Only one PJC every three years per household can protect against insurance points
- Only two PJCs every five years can protect against DMV license points
Using a PJC for a minor issue today may eliminate protection when a more serious situation arises later.
Red Light and Stop Sign Tickets
For certain red light or stop sign violations, a PJC may be the only available option to avoid an insurance increase. Policies vary by county, and different courts may handle these cases differently depending on the judge and prosecutor. Consulting your local Franklin County NC traffic lawyers before making any decision is strongly advised.
Criminal Charges: Misdemeanors and Felonies
In very limited circumstances, the District Attorney may seek a conviction without pursuing probation or incarceration. In those rare cases, a PJC may be an acceptable resolution. However, this outcome is the exception, not the rule, and most criminal cases are not suitable for a PJC.
High-Speed and Reckless Driving Cases
Judges are statutorily barred from granting a PJC when the original charged speed exceeds 25 mph over the limit. Even if the charge is later reduced, the DMV may still treat the case as if the original speed applies, often leading to license revocation.
In narrowly defined situations, a reckless driving charge paired with excessive speed may still be resolved with a PJC if both the District Attorney and judge agree. When available, this can prevent revocation and limit insurance consequences.
Driving After Consuming Under 21
While a PJC is not permitted for DWI charges, it may be an option for Driving After Consuming Under 21. Successfully obtaining a PJC in these cases can avoid the mandatory one-year license revocation. However, young driver insurance surcharges may still apply.
These cases typically require completion of specific conditions, such as substance abuse assessments, treatment, and community service, reports Grant S. Scheuring Attorney at Law. A Franklin County attorney can determine whether this resolution is realistic for your situation.
Why Local Legal Advice Matters
Judges and prosecutors differ in how they approach PJCs. An experienced local attorney understands:
- County-specific courtroom practices
- Individual judge tendencies
- When a PJC is realistic
- Whether a reduction or dismissal offers better long-term protection
In many cases, a negotiated outcome can provide more benefits than using a PJC unnecessarily.
Final Ideas
A Prayer for Judgment Continued can be an effective legal tool—but only when used thoughtfully and sparingly. Because PJCs are limited, discretionary, and potentially impactful on your driving and criminal record, they should never be requested by default.
If you are facing a traffic citation or misdemeanor charge, understanding all available options before requesting a PJC can significantly affect your record, insurance costs, and future legal flexibility.