Deal Criminal Defense Attorney
When accused of a crime, the threat of a conviction can cast a dark shadow over your life. It is important that defendants secure legal representation from a criminal defense attorney they can trust. At The Law Office of Jason A. Volet, we understand that your freedom and future may be on the line. Our team is here to build the strongest possible defense on your behalf. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Deal today.
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me?
Being accused of a crime can be overwhelming and frightening. In most cases, accused individuals are left disoriented and do not know where to turn. Remember that you do not have to face the situation alone. The Law Office of Jason A. Volet is ready to evaluate your case and make sure you know your rights. Our services include:
- A free case evaluation in a confidential consultation
- Investigating the full circumstances of the charges you face
- Thoroughly researching the relevant law in your case
- Identifying and aggressively pursuing realistic goals for your defense
- Gathering evidence to defend your rights in court
- Working with prosecutors to have your charges reduced or dismissed where possible
- Pursuing probation or suspended sentencing as an alternative to jail time
- Arguing on your behalf in court
- Petitioning to have your criminal record sealed or expunged
Do not wait to call today for your free consultation. To learn more about results we have achieved on behalf of our clients, please follow this link.
What Kinds of Cases Do We Handle?
Criminal law is very complex, and you need a skilled attorney in your corner who can thoroughly investigate and pursue all favorable legal avenues on your behalf. Jason A. Volet has a wide range of experience helping individuals accused of crimes throughout New Jersey. Among other things, he can help you in cases involving the following:
For a video series presented by Jason A. Volet discussing frequently asked questions in New Jersey criminal defense cases, please follow this link.
How are Crimes Categorized in New Jersey?
Unlike most states, which categorize crimes into felonies and misdemeanors, the criminal justice system in New Jersey recognizes two broad categories of offenses: disorderly persons offenses and indictable crimes. This section explores both.
1. Disorderly Persons Offenses – Roughly analogous to misdemeanors in other states, disorderly persons offenses are less serious than indictable offenses. They may result in a fine of up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail. Examples of disorderly person offenses include:
- Disorderly conduct
- Resisting arrest
- Writing bad checks
- Public lewdness
“Petty” disorderly persons offenses are an additional subcategory that includes a variety of minor infractions. They may result in a maximum fine of $500 and up to 30 days in jail.
2. Indictable Crimes – Roughly equivalent to felonies in other states, indictable offenses are more serious than disorderly person offenses. In order of severity, they are further subdivided into first, second, third, and fourth degrees. These crimes can result in a few years to multiple decades in prison, as well as fines ranging from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Examples of indictable crimes include:
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Unlawful possession of a handgun
- Money laundering
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Robbery
- Kidnapping
- Aggravated arson
- Disarming a police officer
- Large-quantity drug distribution
- Maintaining or operating a drug facility
Are There Other Consequences When Convicted of a Crime?
A criminal conviction can have a devastating effect on your life. Consequences are not limited to the incarceration and fines discussed above. Collateral damage from a conviction can include:
- Harsher penalties for second- or third-time offenses
- Disqualification from participating in certain industries and professions
- Difficulty qualifying for certain loans and financial services
- Loss of voting, driving, or firearm-possession privileges
- Disqualification from public office
- Restricted ability to travel
- Revocation or denial of security clearances
- Difficulty winning child custody or visitation rights
- Adverse weather conditions
Because of the wide-ranging havoc a conviction can wreak on your life, it is essential that you get the best legal representation possible to mount your defense. Call Jason A. Volet today if you have been accused of a crime in Deal.
What Is the Difference Between Municipal and Superior Court?
Most criminal cases in New Jersey are heard in either municipal court or superior court. There are currently 539 municipal courts and 21 superior courts, one for each county in the state.
In general, municipal courts are responsible for handling less serious offenses. All in all, approximately 85 percent of all criminal cases in the state are disposed of in municipal court. For example, they hear cases involving traffic tickets and other motor vehicle violations, such as illegal parking. They also handle most disorderly person offenses, minor disputes among residents, and cases involving hunting, fishing, or boating.
By contrast, the county superior courts are the main trial courts in the state. They hear cases involving higher-level criminal charges, which normally are heard by a 12-member jury. Cases involving indictable crimes like sexual assault, large-scale theft, and homicide will be heard in superior court.
Contact a Deal Criminal Defense Attorney
Being accused of a crime can be an extremely frightening experience, and the consequences of a conviction can be very serious. That said, working with an experienced defense attorney can significantly turn things around. The legal team at The Law Office of Jason A. Volet can help you pursue the best outcome possible for your case, including having your charges reduced or dismissed. Contact us today to learn more about your options in a free, confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer near you.
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