Criminal Lawyer

Marlton lawyer Paul Ferrell Jr. provides information on responding to criminal charges in the state of New Jersey. Hiring a private attorney is of a necessity if the person charged with a crime does not qualify for a public defender or if they elect to have a private attorney represent them. The attorney selected must be qualified to practice law in the state of New Jersey. Private criminal lawyers make a living off of serving clients; they charge a fee. Oftentimes, it is a necessity to acquire a loan through a bank or credit union to finance the fee. Most individuals are not accustomed to needing a criminal lawyer and do not have a saving plan set aside for such a need. Attorneys may acknowledge this and accept 50% down and a reasonable payment plan.

Misdemeanor vs Crime

New Jersey criminal offenses range from petty disorderly persons, known as “misdemeanors”, to those that are identified as “crimes”. Misdemeanors are generally addressed in the state’s Municipal Court system. These offenses may include environmental violations, traffic violations, parking violations, minors in possession of alcohol, the possession of drug paraphernalia, disorderly conduct, no insurance violation, etc. It is a good idea to consult with a Marlton attorney when faced with a misdemeanor court appearance in NJ. A petty disorderly person’s charge carries a penalty of $500.00 plus 30 days in county jail. A disorderly person’s offense can carry a maximum of $1,000 and 6 months in the county jail. Having a Marlton lawyer to represent your case can lessen the penalty.

Crimes range from first degree to fourth degree. All criminal matters must be handled in the court of law. A first-degree crime can carry a punishment of 10 to 20 years in the state prison. A second degree crime can carry a punishment of 5 to 10 years in the state prison, a third degree charge can include a punishment of 3 to 5 years in state prison, and a fourth degree charge may include a punishment of up to 18 months in jail. Most cases in the Superior Court are addressed through a plea bargain. This arrangement is made between the prosecutor and the defense attorney. In a plea bargain the defendant pleads guilty in return for the prosecutor recommending to the judge that the decided penalty not exceed the agreement that has been negotiated and agreed upon by the defending attorney and the prosecuting attorney.

Juvenile Court (Family Court)

Individuals under the age of 18, who commit acts that would qualify as a crime if they were an adult, are not charged criminally. They are charged as having committed an act of delinquency. The overwhelming objective is to obtain rehabilitation for the juvenile. A heavy emphasis is placed on counseling, education, drug treatment, job training, etc. Juveniles can be confined just like an adult, for a shorter term. Parents are required by law to obtain counsel for their child to ensure adequate protection for their juvenile rights. Contact a Marlton lawyer to assist you in advocating for your child’s legal rights in the event of juvenile charges.

Experiencing advocacy on your behalf as you face misdemeanor, criminal, or juvenile charges, is of utmost importance. If you have been charged with criminal charges, you will likely benefit by consulting with and hiring a criminal lawyer. Consider hiring a Marlton lawyer to assist you in facing charges occurred in NJ or PA.