In Burlington County, New Jersey, being charged with a disorderly persons offense might not seem like a "big deal"--but the negative impact on your life could be more significant than you think. Even minor offenses in New Jersey can still lead to fines, jail time, and a criminal record that could show up on background checks for years to come. Since disorderly persons offenses are tried solely by a judge without a jury, lacking proper legal representation could increase the likelihood of facing the maximum penalties for your alleged offense.
That's why, even for disorderly persons offenses, choosing the right criminal defense attorney in New Jersey can make or break your case. The Lento Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team has extensive experience and a strong track record in defending clients in municipal courts both across Burlington County and the entire state of New Jersey. With a comprehensive understanding of Burlington County's court procedures, we work to secure the most favorable possible outcome for your case, regardless of whether the charge is for simple assault, shoplifting, or trespassing. Don't face these charges on your own; call the Lento Law firm at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.
What Is a Disorderly Persons Offense?
In simplest terms, a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey is similar in scope to a misdemeanor in New Jersey. Where most states categorize crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, New Jersey uses a different set of terms in its judicial system. Felony level offenses are categorized as Indictable offenses, a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey is akin to a misdemeanor in other states, and petty disorderly persons offenses are similar to infractions.
Common examples of disorderly persons offenses in New Jersey include:
- Simple assault
- Harassment
- Shoplifting (items valued under $200)
- Theft (under $200)
- Possessing small amounts of controlled substances (or more than one ounce of marijuana)
- Resisting arrest
While disorderly persons offenses are similar in gravity to misdemeanors, New Jersey law approaches them differently. In many states, misdemeanor charges come with the right to a jury trial, but this is not the case for disorderly persons offenses. These offenses are adjudicated by a municipal court judge in a "bench trial" without a jury. This difference highlights the importance of having an attorney to advocate for you in Burlington County, even for minor offenses.
Depending on the severity of the crime, certain violations can also be upgraded from a disorderly persons offense to an indictable offense. For example, if an assault causes significant injury or shoplifting involves items worth more than $200, the charge could be elevated to an indictable offense.
Is a Disorderly Persons Offense a Crime?
In New Jersey, a disorderly persons offense is not technically labeled as a crime. This stems from the fact that, legally, a crime in New Jersey requires:
- An indictment from a grand jury; and
- The defendant's right to a jury trial
Since disorderly persons offenses lack both grand jury indictments and jury trials, they aren't categorized as "crimes" according to state law. However, the consequences mirror those of criminal offenses, including:
- The risk of conviction
- Possible fines and jail terms
- A criminal record that is visible on criminal background checks
Thus, for all intents and purposes, being convicted of a disorderly persons offense carries the same types of consequences as being convicted of a crime.
Disorderly Persons Charges in Burlington County, NJ
If you're charged with a disorderly persons offense in Burlington County, your hearing and trial will take place at the municipal court linked to the location of the alleged incident. For instance, if the alleged incident occurred in Pemberton Township, you'll be summoned to appear before the Municipal Court Judge in Pemberton Municipal Court. Depending on the court, hearings might be held remotely via Zoom or in person.
During your first hearing, you'll be briefed on the charges and required to enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The case might proceed immediately to a bench trial during the same session, or your attorney could seek a postponement to reschedule the trial or negotiate toward reducing or dismissing the charges.
What Happens If You're Convicted
With competent legal defense, many disorderly persons offenses result in minimal or no jail time. Probation is a more common outcome--or if you are eligible, you may be able to enter a diversionary program to have the charges dismissed. If you are convicted, the maximum penalty for a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey is:
- Up to $1,000 in fines and/or
- Up to six months in county jail
Even so, a conviction for a disorderly persons offense can have lasting effects beyond the immediate sentence. Even without jail time, a conviction may appear on criminal background checks, potentially influencing your ability to gain employment, procure housing, or other opportunities for years to come.
How We Help You
The Lento Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team brings significant experience in defending against disorderly persons charges in Burlington County. We can:
- Evaluate the charges and evidence against you
- Advocate for acquittal during the bench trial
- Negotiate for charge reductions, lighter penalties, or case dismissal before or during your hearing
- Assist in qualifying you for diversionary programs like Pre-Trial Intervention or Conditional Discharge, which could lead to a dismissal of the charge with no criminal record
Remember, New Jersey takes minor offenses seriously, and so should you. If you've been charged with a disorderly persons offense in Burlington County, don't risk your future by going it alone. To schedule a consultation, call the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team today at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.
