Misdemeanor Offenses
Less Serious Crimes Often Heard In Municipal Court
Also Known As Disorderly Persons Offense
Although you’ll not be facing the jail time or heavy fines that a Felony Offense (known as Crimes in NJ) has, a Disorderly Persons Offense heard at a Municipal Court can land you in jail and result in a criminal record following you around for years.
Disorderly Persons Offense Penalties
Disorderly Persons offenses in NJ carry potential criminal penalties as follows:
- Prison or jail; up to 6 months for a disorderly persons offense, or 30 days for a petty disorderly persons offense
- Fines of up to $1000 for a disorderly persons offense, or $500 for a petty disorderly persons offense.
- restitution
- probation
- community service
- drivers license suspension
Some common examples of disorderly persons charges, or (petty crimes as they are sometimes called) are shoplifting or theft under $200 in value, possession of drugs in very small quantities and gambling.
Town Ordinance Offense Penalties
Local town ordinance offenses are varied, and specific to each town or municipality . They are generally lesser offenses than petty disorderly persons offense charges.
Again, even if you, or a family member has been charged with Disorderly Persons Offense (Misdemeanor), do not believe it’s “nothing to worry about”.
There are far-reaching consequences if you are convicted. Call us at (888) 628-8394 and speak to an attorney that knows exactly what you face… and what to do about it.