Comparing and Contrasting DWI and Reckless Driving
January 26, 2025
DWI and Reckless Driving are some of the most severely penalized traffic violations in New Jersey. Along with speeding, they are near the top of the list of the most dangerous infractions frequently occurring in New Jersey. Over 26,000 DUI convictions occur annually in the state, and reckless driving convictions reach even higher numbers. Knowing the difference between these violations is helpful. To understand the legal implications of convictions, penalties, and defenses to these charges ... Read More»
Inside-Out Look at How Grand Juries Work in New Jersey
January 19, 2025
When most people hear about a grand jury proceeding or subsequent indictment, they mistakenly believe someone is guilty of committing a crime. The grand jury performs an important role in criminal cases in New Jersey but does not get involved in convicting someone accused of criminal conduct. The grand jury serves an essential purpose in New Jersey's criminal justice system. When the state charges someone with a serious crime, the grand jury decides whether there is enough evidence to ... Read More»
What Kind of Record Do You Have with a DWI in NJ?
January 11, 2025
Wondering Where a DUI will Appear if You Get Convicted in New Jersey? Driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) of intoxicating substances is illegal in New Jersey. You can go to jail, pay heavy fines, and lose your license, among other costly and embarrassing penalties. However, a DWI or DUI is not a criminal offense. Despite the severe penalties, these offenses are quasi-criminal because they are traffic offenses that can land you in jail but do not ... Read More»
Everything You Need to Know about Criminal Contempt in New Jersey
January 6, 2025
Contempt is a criminal charge in New Jersey which can occur in a myriad of different ways. Under N.J. Stat. § 2C:29-9, contempt is a serious offense with harsh penalties. Its purpose is to punish those who disobey court orders or rules. Understandably, a court does not take lightly a defendant’s disregard of the judicial process or the orderly oversight of court-ordered behaviors and obligations. Since a judicial order may arise in any context, civil or criminal, contempt may arise in ... Read More»
Spitting on Someone: The Connection to Assault in NJ
December 30, 2024
Why You May be Arrested for Spitting on Someone in New Jersey Spitting on someone is a clear sign of anger, while the reasons for such conduct vary depending on the circumstances. Intentionally spitting on someone is seen as an act of aggression under New Jersey law, meant to evoke fear or disgust in the victim. Since bodily fluids may contain disease, the person being spit on may have justifiable fear for their safety in addition to shame and repulsion. Though a person may not ... Read More»
Unpacking Mistrials in NJ Criminal Proceedings
December 23, 2024
Fundamentals of a Criminal Mistrial in New Jersey Criminal trials in New Jersey are complex, some more than others. Most occur with both sides presenting their arguments and evidence, questioning and cross-examining witnesses, and preparing and executing all of the necessary steps from beginning to end, at which point the jury deliberates and verdict is rendered. However, some cases end in a mistrial. Virtually anything that creates an unfair trial or places the integrity of ... Read More»