An Overview of Common Criminal Offenses in New Jersey
The New Jersey criminal justice system is made up of hundreds of crimes, each with their own legal consequences. This article provides you with a brief overview of the most common criminal offenses, and how New Jersey handles each of them. This can help you prepare for your upcoming case.
Criminal Assault
Criminal assault refers to any infliction, or attempt of infliction, of bodily harm or injury to another person. New Jersey divides criminal assault into different degrees, with first-degree being the most severe. Criminal assault charges of the fourth degree, which is the least, can lead to fines up to $10,000 and 18 months in county jail.
Sex Offenses
Sex offenses may include sexual assault, criminal sexual contact, aggravated sexual assault, possession or distribution of child pornography. It may also include prostitution or lewd behavior. The consequences of sex offenses in New Jersey vary, depending on the crime. A common consequence, however, is a mandatory registration with Megan’s Law, which is a database that requires sex offenders to register their current location.
Drug Crimes
Drug crimes may involve possession, distribution, or even driving while under the influence of an illegal substance. There are many factors involved that can affect the consequences of drug crimes in New Jersey. The consequences usually include fines or jail time, as well as required community service. New Jersey has taken a stance on decriminalizing marijuana crimes, meaning the rate of drug crimes will likely eventually decrease.
DUI
DUI involves driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While it may be included within the drug crimes category, the high occurrence of DUIs also makes it its own category. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) in New Jersey is 0.08 percent. If you’re caught driving a vehicle above this limit, you could be charged with a DUI. A DUI in New Jersey is charged based on whether or not you have any prior offenses. Even a first-time charge can lead to your driver’s license being suspended, legal fines between $750 – $1,000, up to 30 days in jail, and up to 48 hours in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC). These charges may become even harsher with repeat offenses.
Dealing With Potential Charges?
If you’re currently dealing with any of these legal charges, or criminal charges not on this list, it’s important that you consider your options. Many criminal charges lead to harsh consequences under New Jersey’s criminal justice system. This means that in addition to having a permanent criminal record, you could be required to pay expensive fines, or even spend time in jail.
A New Jersey criminal justice lawyer can help you evaluate the details of your case and build a legal defense. There are many defenses available, depending on your charges. However, in order to build an effective defense, your lawyer needs to better understand the details of your case. If you made a mistake or are being wrongly charged, you need a lawyer. A criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your potential legal charges and consequences while also building a defense on your behalf.
Contact an Experienced Camden County Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Criminal Charges in New Jersey
Were you arrested or charged with criminal charges in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Gelman Law have successfully represented clients charged with criminal charges in Cherry Hill, Camden County, Burlington County, Gloucester County, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-861-4236 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 850 Rt 70 West Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.
