The last thing you needed was to be charged with a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey. Whether you are unfairly accused, were caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, or made a bad decision, the Lento Law Firm can defend you from a disorderly person charge in Mercer County, New Jersey. We can collaborate with you to navigate the charges, help you understand your options and possible outcomes, represent you in court, and fight for your acquittal.
If you are charged with a disorderly persons offense in Mercer County, let the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team help. Call the Lento Law Firm offices today at 888-535-3686 or complete our online form to discuss your case.
Disorderly Persons Offenses in New Jersey
Most states organize illegal acts into misdemeanors for lesser crimes and felonies for more severe and dangerous crimes. In New Jersey, the more serious crimes are called indictable offenses, and misdemeanor crimes are considered disorderly persons offenses.
A defendant accused of an indictable offense may decide to have a jury trial or a bench trial. In a jury trial, the verdict is decided by the individuals serving on the jury. In a bench trial, the judge decides the verdict.
In New Jersey, disorderly persons offenses are adjudicated by a municipal court judge in a bench trial without a jury. Although the prosecution of a disorderly persons offense resembles a criminal trial in many ways, it is not. In New Jersey, a crime is an offense that requires a grand jury indictment and grants the defendant the right to a jury trial. Because disorderly persons offenses do not require an indictment or a jury trial, they are not considered crimes in New Jersey.
Despite this nuance, a disorderly persons offense is an illegal act with many of the same consequences as misdemeanor crimes, such as:
- A defendant can be found guilty of a disorderly persons offense, and the conviction may appear in criminal background checks.
- A defendant may face fines and potential jail time for such an offense.
Individuals accused of disorderly person offenses should take the charges seriously and assemble a defense team to help navigate the legal system and fight the allegations.
Examples of Disorderly Persons Offenses
Disorderly persons offenses include violations such as assault, harassment, trespassing, shoplifting, theft, possession of small amounts of marijuana, and resisting arrest. Importantly, disorderly persons offenses can become indictable crimes. For example, a theft charge could become an indictable offense depending on the value of the stolen items. A simple assault charge could escalate to an indictable offense if the alleged victim has serious injuries.
Disorderly Persons Offenses in Mercer County Municipal Courts
In New Jersey, the municipal court of the city, township, or borough where the incident occurred has jurisdiction over disorderly persons offenses.
Every municipal court will have its own processes and procedures for bench trials. The experienced defense attorneys at the Lento Law Firm know how the municipal courts of New Jersey operate. We can work with you throughout the judicial process in the over a dozen municipal courts in Mercer County, including:
- The Hamilton Township Municipal Court, located in Hamilton, NJ.
- The Hopewell Borough Municipal Court, located in Hopewell, NJ
- The Trenton Municipal Court, located in Trenton, NJ.
During your initial hearing, you are asked for a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest to the charges against you. Your bench trial may begin immediately or be scheduled for a later date. You need a committed team of experienced criminal defense attorneys to help prepare you for your hearings and trial. It is critical to understand the implications of your plea and be ready to advocate on your behalf with the judge and prosecutors.
Partner With the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team
If you face a charge for a disorderly persons offense in Mercer County, the Lento Law Firm can help. As your Criminal Defense Team, we can offer critical assistance before your bench trial begins, including:
- Analyzing the charges against you to develop a comprehensive defense strategy, such as identifying possible defenses and exonerating witnesses and evidence.
- Advising you on the charges, the legal process, possible sentences, and any diversionary programs for which you are eligible. Diversionary programs, such as Pre-Trial Intervention or Conditional Discharge, can provide a critical opportunity for defendants to limit or avoid prosecution.
- Negotiating with prosecutors and the municipal court judge for dismissal, reduced penalties, or lesser charges.
- Reviewing the actions of law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure your due process rights are protected.
If it seems like your case will go to trial, we can represent you at your bench trial and advocate for your acquittal.
Anyone accused of a disorderly persons offense should take the allegation seriously and seek out the assistance needed for an effective defense.
The Consequences of a Conviction for a Disorderly Persons Offence
In New Jersey, a conviction for a disorderly persons offense carries a maximum penalty of up to six months in jail and a fine of $1,000. Importantly, the jail time is served in a municipal jail, not the state prison system. Probation or community service may be included as part of the sentence.
Additionally, the collateral consequences of a conviction for a disorderly persons offense are far-reaching and can impact every corner of your life. A conviction may appear on background checks. You may have difficulty finding employment or housing. If you hold a professional license, your license and, therefore, your financial security may be at risk. Additionally, a conviction may jeopardize your reputation, personal relationships, and custody arrangements.
Don't try to navigate the New Jersey judicial system alone. Let the Lento Law Criminal Defense Team be your partner, and we will fight for you and your future. Contact the experienced attorneys of the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or complete a confidential online form.
