Keansburg, NJ Criminal Defense Attorney

Being arrested is stressful for anyone, whether it’s the first time or not. You should have someone experienced representing you during every stage of the process.

If you were arrested for a criminal offense in New Jersey, immediately contact the Law Office of Jason A. Volet for representation. Jason A. Volet is a criminal defense trial attorney with years of experience. As a former prosecutor, he understands all aspects of criminal law and the best way to defend his clients. Let our dedicated legal team fight for you.

Call or contact us online for a free consultation to learn about your legal options. We’re available 24/7 to speak with you.

What Criminal Charges Can a Keansburg Criminal Defense Lawyer Help Me With?

A Keansburg criminal defense lawyer from the Law Office of Jason A. Volet can defend you in cases involving:

How Are Criminal Offenses Classified in New Jersey?

Crimes aren’t classified as felonies or misdemeanors like in other states. In New Jersey, crimes are categorized as one of these offenses:

• Municipal ordinance offenses – A municipal ordinance violation is similar to receiving a ticket for littering. It isn’t considered an actual crime like the other offenses. Penalties often include only fines. The consequences don’t include jail time and a criminal record.
• Disorderly persons offenses – A disorderly persons offense is similar to crimes considered misdemeanors in other states. You receive a summons to appear in court if you’re arrested and charged. The municipal court in the town where you were charged will handle the case. Although disorderly persons offenses aren’t as serious as other crimes, they can lead to expensive fines and imprisonment.
• Indictable offenses – Often called felonies in other states, indictable offenses are classified by degrees. Fourth-degree offenses are less serious, while first-degree crimes are the most severe. A grand jury reviews the evidence and determines whether to support formal charges.

What Offenses Would Be Classified as Disorderly Persons Offenses in Keansburg?

Disorderly persons offenses involve crimes punishable by no more than six months in jail, such as:

What Are the Legal Penalties for Criminal Convictions in Keansburg?

State law divides criminal offenses into four degrees. Each comes with minimum and maximum sentences for jail time and fines. The penalties based on each degree are:

• First-degree crime – Between 10 and 20 years imprisonment and fines up to $200,000
• Second-degree crime – 5 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000
• Third-degree crime – Between 3 and 5 years in prison and fines up to $15,000
• Fourth-degree crime – No more than 18 months imprisonment and fines up to $10,000
• Disorderly persons offense – Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000
• Petty disorderly persons offense – A maximum of 30 days in jail and fines up to $500

Are There Other Possible Consequences for Having a Criminal Conviction?

Besides serving time behind bars, being convicted of a crime can have significant consequences that affect your whole life, such as:

Is It Possible to Have a Sentence Reduced or Dismissed?

You might get a reduced sentence if the court considers mitigating factors related to the crime you committed. Mitigating factors that can lead to a less severe punishment include:

• The victim enabled or caused the offense.
• The defendant didn’t think their conduct would threaten or cause serious harm.
• The defendant cooperated with law enforcement.
• The defendant didn’t threaten or cause serious harm.
• The defendant doesn’t have a history of criminal activity or delinquency.
• Serving a prison term would cause the defendant or their dependents excessive hardship.
• The defendant was strongly provoked.
• Substantial grounds justify or excuse the misconduct.
• The defendant’s attitude and character suggest it isn’t likely they’ll commit another offense.
• The defendant is a young offender, and a more mature person influenced their actions substantially.
• The defendant will complete community service or compensate the victim.
• The defendant is likely to respond to probation.

Is a Minor Treated Differently Than an Adult in the New Jersey Justice System?

The juvenile justice system is drastically different from the criminal justice system for adults. Minors are treated less harshly when it comes to certain crimes. The system focuses more on rehabilitation and reform than punishment.

The juvenile justice system will impose sentencing other than incarceration whenever possible. Alternative sentencing options depend on the type of offense but can include:

Can a Criminal Conviction Stay on My Record?

A conviction can stay on your criminal record forever. However, you can apply for expungement with the court. You can expunge no more than one indictable conviction and up to three disorderly persons or petty disorderly persons offenses. Some crimes cannot be expunged, though, such as murder and sexual assault.

Typically, you must wait at least five years after serving your sentence to apply. You must also pay all fees and fines.

Contact a Keansburg, NJ Criminal Defense Lawyer

At the Law Office of Jason A. Volet, we know how quickly the case can progress after you’re arrested. It might seem like you have no time to prepare for what’s next. It’s a scary situation to be in and one that you should not deal with alone.

We can protect your rights and create a defense strategy to pursue a positive result. You can count on our knowledgeable team to be there for you during the most challenging time in your life.

Call or contact us online today for a free consultation if you were arrested or charged with a crime. A Keansburg criminal defense lawyer is ready to fight for your future.