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»
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»
Meaning of Disorderly Persons Offenses vs. Indictable Crimes in New Jersey
January 9, 2022
The New Jersey criminal code classifies offenses as either indictable crimes or disorderly and petty disorderly offenses. The former is a more serious category with varying degrees, while the latter includes lesser criminal offenses. What is an Indictable Crime in NJ? An indictable crime, like murder, drug distribution, or weapons possession, comes with prison time and some formidable fines for the average person. Indictable crimes range from the lowest fourth degree offense to the ... Read More»
Burlington County Prosecutor Charges Husband and Wife in Hit-and-Run
January 6, 2021
The Burlington County Prosecutor's Office has announced the arrest of two individuals for their alleged involvement in a fatal hit-and-run last year. According the a press release, Tonya Brown, 35, is accused of driving an SUV that struck and killed Ronald Zukowski on Dec. 29, 2019, while Mr. Zukowski tried to cross Lakehurst Road near Choctaw Drive. In addition to Mrs. Brown, Victor Brown, 44, is accused of assisting his wife to conceal the evidence of the crime. Investigators were able ... Read More»
Information About Restraining Orders in New Jersey
November 5, 2020
Can Anyone Get a Restraining Order in New Jersey? Not necessarily. Pursuant to the Prevention Against Domestic Violence Act, a "victim" applying for the restraining order must demonstrate that they are have a "domestic relationship" with the defendant and that they are the victim of an “act of domestic violence” from the defendant. The qualify as having a "domestic relationship" with the defendant, the victim must show that they fall under one of three categories listed in N.J.S.A. ... Read More»