Burlington County Central Judicial Processing Court

What is Central Judicial Processing (CJP) in Mount Holly?

In New Jersey, Central Judicial Processing (also referred to as “CJP”) is the initial step in a criminal case. This is considered the Defendant’s first initial appearance, where by they will be informed of certain pertinent information about their case. In Burlington County, this process occurs at the Burlington County Superior Court in Mt. Holly. If the Defendant has been issued their charges on what is known as a “warrant” and they are held in the Burlington County Jail, then their CJP hearing is where they will be informed if the Prosecutor has filed for a Detention Hearing. If so, that means that the Prosecutor is seeking to have the Court detain the Defendant in the County Jail, without bail, pending trial.

By understanding how CJP court works, you can know what to expect if you are arrested and charged with an indictable crime in Burlington County, NJ. If you or someone you love has an upcoming court appearance for Central Judicial Processing (CJP) in Burlington County for charges such as theft, aggravated assault, possession of heroin, unlawful possession of a weapon, intent to distribute marijuana, burglary terroristic threats, or any other felony offense, contact William C. Fay today for immediate assistance.

What Happens at CJP in Burlington County, NJ?

If you are in custody at Burlington County Jail, you will appear before a judge using video conference equipment. Individuals who are released on their own recognizance in New Jersey must go to the court listed on their complaint for their first appearance. In the case of Central Judicial Processing for an indictable offense (also known as a felony), you will be required to appear in Burlington County County Superior Court.

During your CJP court date, the following things typically occur:

1. You will be called upon to enter your initial plea to the charges (Guilty v. Not Guilty);
2. Any Bail Conditions, if previous put in place, will be reviewed at this time (conditions like no contact with the victim);
3. If you are currently detained, then the Prosecution may file for a Detention Hearing, whereby they will be seeking to detain you in the Burlington County jail, without bail, pending trial;
4. The Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office will typically provide the initial discovery;
5. The Prosecution may also make a decision on whether your case will be move to indictment, resolve through a plea agreement or be remanded to the municipal court.

You are entitled to have a lawyer present with you at this hearing and it is very important to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer from the very beginning of your case. Significant progress can be made at the CJP court date between your attorney and the prosecutor. ineffective counsel or no counsel at all can result in the presentment of your case to a grand jury when the case should be downgraded and/or remanded.

Do I Need to Go to CJP in Burlington County NJ?

Unfortunately, yes. This is mostly because these CJP dates can be a very positive opportunity for you or your loved one who is facing criminal charges to fight the case. Speaking from experience, our firm has obtained countless downgrades and even dismissals of charges at the Central Judicial Processing in NJ. However, more serious charges like robbery, sexual assault or endangering the welfare of a child will not find a great deal of resolution at their CJP court date.

Need a Lawyer for My Central Judicial Processing Hearing in Burlington County NJ

Proetta, Oliver & Fay is a criminal defense firm that has been representing clients at Central Judicial Processing (CJP) hearings for multiple years. We understand the ins-and-outs of CJP Court and how to navigate these waters. If you or a loved one are facing criminal felony charges in Burlington County and have to appear at CJP in Burlington County, William C. Fay, Esq., can help. If you would like to sit down and discuss your options with a Burlington County criminal defense attorney by calling our office. We handle cases throughout Burlington County, including Evesham, Mount Holly, Pemberton, Florence, Burlington Twp., Medford, Southampton, Willingboro and Bordentown, just to name a few. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.