If you've been charged with a crime in Hudson County, NJ, you're probably feeling stressed, worried, and confused about the future. Joseph Lento wants to help you deal with these criminal charges – here is some helpful information about the criminal justice process so you're better prepared for what may happen next.
Consequences of Criminal Charges in Hudson County, NJ
Thankfully there are virtually no bail requirements in New Jersey anymore. However, this doesn't mean life returns to normal while you await trial. It's likely you will still face certain restrictions on your liberty, such as:
- Alcohol restrictions
- Check-ins with local law enforcement
- Loss of firearms
- Nightly curfews
- Restraining orders
- Travel restrictions
The restrictions you face vary widely depending on the nature of the alleged offense and whether you have a criminal record. For example, in some cases, the courts won't impose any restrictions at all, whereas other defendants will be held in custody pending trial.
If you're subject to restrictions, you must comply with them, or you could face additional charges.
How a Criminal Conviction in NJ Can Affect You
If you're convicted of a crime in New Jersey, the consequences can be severe. Here are some examples of repercussions you could face depending on the crime.
- You might spend time in jail or prison
- If you're ordered to pay fines, you could experience financial difficulties
- Criminal convictions can make it harder to find employment or pursue academic programs
- You may lose custody of your children or have visitation rights restricted
Misdemeanors or Felonies: What's the Difference?
Unlike most states, New Jersey uses the terms “disorderly persons offenses” and “indictable offenses” rather than misdemeanors or felonies. Here is a breakdown of what each term means and what penalties may apply.
Misdemeanors: Disorderly Persons Offenses
As the equivalent of misdemeanors in other states, disorderly persons offenses are less serious than indictable offenses. Some common disorderly persons offenses are:
- Disorderly conduct
- Harassment
- Resisting arrest
- Simple assault
- Small dollar shoplifting
The penalties for these offenses include fines, community service, and probation, although you could face up to 6 months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines depending on the crime.
Felonies: Indictable Offenses
New Jersey refers to felonies as “indictable offenses” as it's one of the few states where every individual charged with crimes at this level must face a grand jury indictment. In Hudson County, this means you'll face a grand jury at the Superior Court in Jersey City if you're charged with an indictable offense.
Indictable offenses are serious crimes such as:
- Armed robbery
- Arson
- Murder
- Rape
- Sexual assault
Indictable offenses are charged as crimes in the first, second, third, or fourth degrees. First-degree crimes are the most serious, with penalties of up to $200,000 in fines and life imprisonment. Fourth-degree crimes carry penalties of up to 18 months imprisonment and $10,000 in fines.
Hudson County Municipal Courts
Municipal Courts typically handle less serious offenses (disorderly persons offenses). These courts also hold preliminary hearings for indictable offenses to determine whether the case should be allocated to the Superior Court for a trial.
Since there are no jury trials in Hudson County Municipal Courts, both sides present their arguments to the judge, who reaches a decision based on the evidence and applicable law.
The following Municipal Courts may be found in Hudson County.
Bayonne City
630 Avenue C, Bayonne, NJ 07002
Phone: 201-858-6918
Guttenberg
6808 Park Avenue, Guttenberg, NJ 07093
Phone: 201-868-2923
Harrison
318 Harrison Avenue, Harrison, NJ 07029
Phone: 973-268-2453
Hoboken City
94 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Phone: 201-420-2120
Hudson County (District Court)
595 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
Phone: 201-795-6000
Jersey City
365 Summit Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
Phone: 201-209-6700
Kearny
404 Kearny Ave #3, Kearny, NJ 07032
Phone: 201-955-7410
North Bergen
4233 Kennedy Boulevard, North Bergen, NJ 07047
Phone: 201-392-2137
Secaucus Town
1203 Paterson Plank Road, Secaucus, NJ 07094
Phone: 201-330-2065
Union City
3715 Palisade Avenue #2, Union City, NJ 07087
Phone: 201-348-5763
Weehawken
400 Park Avenue, Weehawken, NJ 07086
Phone: 201-319-6033
West New York
428 60th St, West New York, NJ 07093
Phone: 201-295-5185
Hudson County Superior Court
The Superior Court handles family, civil, and criminal matters. It's where trials are held for indictable offenses, and so it's commonly referred to as the “trial court.”
Each of NJ's 21 counties has its own Superior Court. If you're charged with indictable offenses in Hudson County, NJ, the Superior Court can be found at:
Hudson County Superior Court
595 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
Phone: 201-795-6000
Appealing a Decision
It's possible to appeal a court verdict in NY. The process varies slightly depending on whether you're appealing a Municipal or Superior Court decision.
- Municipal Court: Appeals must be filed within 20 days of the Municipal Court's decision.
- Superior Court: You must file an appeal with the Appellate Division within 45 days of the conviction.
Making a successful appeal means showing that the court erred in some way when it reached its verdict. Grounds for appeal include the improper admission of evidence or a misinterpretation of the law. Judges hearing appeals focus solely on whether the lower court made a mistake in your case – they will not hear additional evidence, call witnesses, or hold another trial.
If your appeal is unsuccessful, it might be possible to appeal to the New Jersey Supreme Court. Your attorney can advise if there are grounds for appeal and how you might make your case.
Criminal Defense Attorney in Hudson County, NJ
If you're facing criminal charges, you need an experienced attorney on your side. Any criminal conviction, however minor, can have significant consequences, so it's crucial you choose a defense attorney who can give you the best chance of securing a favorable outcome.
Joseph Lento has extensive experience representing defendants accused of criminal offenses in New Jersey. He is passionate about helping individuals through some of the most challenging periods of their lives, and he fights to ensure his clients get the fair hearing they deserve. If you're accused of a crime in Hudson County, NJ, don't hesitate to call the Lento Law Firm on 888.535.3686 or contact us online.
