Diversionary Programs for NJ Criminal Charges – Can You Avoid a Conviction?
April 24, 2022
The law does not assume everyone who commits a crime is a hardened criminal beyond redemption. In fact, the purpose of law and the judicial system is to punish and rehabilitate. The intricate web of crime and punishment weaves those two principles throughout the sentencing process, including judicial discretion, uniform assessment guidelines, and diversionary programs for first-time, non-violent offenders. Three diversionary programs in particular in New Jersey, allow qualified offenders a ... Read More»
Was that Search Legal in NJ?
April 9, 2022
Criminal Defense Lawyer Discusses Legal vs. Illegal Searches in Burlington, NJ A police patrol vehicle flashes its lights behind you to pull over. After handing over your license, registration, and proof of insurance, the officer asks you to step outside the vehicle. Before the encounter ends, the police search your car and then search you after finding cocaine in your car. After arrest and release, you wonder if the police search was legal. Asking an experienced criminal defense ... Read More»
Penalties for Shoplifting in NJ
March 27, 2022
If You Have been Charged with Shoplifting, You'll Want to Know How New Jersey Punishes Misdemeanor and Felony Retail Theft You left the store without paying for something, and now the store wants you prosecuted. A shoplifting conviction in New Jersey can change your life. The freedom you enjoyed working, living, and educating yourself wherever you wanted and were eligible is no longer available. And you could spend time in jail or prison, pay excessive fines, and perform community ... Read More»
Violation of Probation (VOP): Process, Hearing, and Consequences in New Jersey
March 13, 2022
If you faced criminal charges anywhere in New Jersey or elsewhere, you might have heard the term probation as a condition of sentencing. Sometimes probation is the sentence, and other times it is part of the sentence. For example, a person may initially face a fourth degree shoplifting charge that carries an 18-month prison sentence with a $10,000.00 fine, but receive a probationary term of supervision, as opposed to a prison sentence. However, a judge may also add a probation term to your ... Read More»
How to Prepare for a Municipal Court Case in NJ
February 26, 2022
The first step in being prepared when your case goes to Municipal Court in New Jersey is understanding the process. If you got a speeding ticket, DWI, or building code violation notice, you might find yourself summoned to appear before the municipal court in any municipality in New Jersey. In recent times, this includes virtual zoom court sessions for the municipal court where your case is being handled. The municipal courts handle traffic violations, parking tickets, municipal ... Read More»
Pre-Indictment Conferences in Burlington County NJ
January 28, 2022
After an arrest in Burlington County or elsewhere in New Jersey, you can expect to have several court hearings to attend. Depending on the complexity of your case, the court's calendar, and other factors, you may have to participate in many hearings after the fact. One of the first hearings after your arrest and pretrial release from jail may be a pre-indictment conference hearing. What Stage of a Felony Criminal Case is the Pre-Indictment Conference? A pre-indictment conference ... Read More»