A wide range of actions can result in the issuance of a disorderly persons offense in Bergen County, New Jersey. Fighting and cursing in public, an altercation with your neighbor, or a silly prank can result in a disorderly persons charge. Though not as serious as a Bergen County Indictable Crime or felony offense, disorderly persons offenses are nonetheless criminal violations that can result in significant fines, potential jail time, and can leave a permanent mark on your record. If you are dealing with a disorderly or petty disorderly persons charge in Bergen County, New Jersey, you should contact an experienced Municipal Court Lawyer to discuss your case. The Reinartz Law Firm can help you minimize the impact of these charges on your life and get you back on track.
About Disorderly Persons Offenses in Hackensack / Bergen County
What other states typically call misdemeanors, New Jersey identifies as disorderly persons offenses or petty disorderly persons offenses. These offenses are handled by New Jersey municipal courts throughout the state. Trials in these courts are referred to as “bench” trials that are presided over by a single judge. There are no jury trials in New Jersey municipal court. If you are convicted of a disorderly persons offense, the conviction will be added to your permanent record. DP offenses carry fines up to $1,000 and can result in up to six months of jail time. Petty DP offenses may result in probation, community service, a fine of up to $500 and up to 30 days in county jail. Disorderly persons charges are usually heard by the municipal court of the city or town where the alleged offense was committed. Common disorderly persons offenses include the following:
- Disorderly Conduct
- Criminal Mischief
- Resisting Arrest
- Obstruction
- Theft
- Simple Assault
- Harassment
- Trespass
- False Reports
- Drug paraphernalia possession
- Marijuana possession of under 50 grams
- Possession of a fake ID
- Underage alcohol possession
- Lewdness
- Shoplifting less than $200 in merchandise
- Bad Checks
How The Reinartz Law Firm Can Help
The Reinartz Law Firm is committed to providing experienced, aggressive criminal defense representation to our clients, no matter how minor or serious the transgression may appear. We will tirelessly work to obtain a dismissal of your charges or to minimize the impact of the situation. Under certain circumstances, this may be accomplished by a conditional discharge or a downgrade to a municipal ordinance violation, where you will have to pay a fine but there will be no “criminal offense” added to your record. We also offer expungement services. No matter what your situation, our firm can review the facts and circumstances of your case and determine and pursue the best possible course of action.
Contact Us
If you have been charged with a Bergen County, NJ disorderly persons offense, call The Reinartz Law Firm at (201) 289-8614. Initial consultations are free and confidential.