Municipal courts handle a wide range of cases, from disorderly persons offenses to first degree crimes. If you’re facing charges in municipal court, the Mark | Lavigne law firm can provide experienced and compassionate representation. Our skilled attorneys are committed to protecting your rights, minimizing penalties, and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. With a thorough understanding of New Jersey’s municipal court system, we’ll provide the guidance and support you need every step of the way.

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Bad Check

While it’s not uncommon to unintentionally overdraw a checking account, writing a check that you know can’t be cashed can be a serious crime. New Jersey law classifies knowingly writing a bad check of up to $200 as a disorderly persons offense, which is handled by the municipal court. Charges of writing bad checks for higher amounts, however, may be prosecuted as crimes in the Superior Court.

 

Traffic Offenses

Traffic offenses can carry serious consequences, including fines, points on your license, and increased insurance premiums. Depending on the seriousness of the charges, defendants may even lose their driving privileges and face jail time. 

 

Driving While Intoxicated

DWI, also called “driving under the influence” (DUI), is a serious charge. All DWI offenses in New Jersey are punishable by fines, jail time, license suspension, and mandatory participation in Intoxicated Driver Resource Center programming. Additionally, drivers convicted of DWI must install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles to regain or retain driving privileges.

 

Repeated DWI Offenses

New Jersey imposes progressively severe penalties on drivers who experience repeated DWI convictions.

 

Boating While Intoxicated

Boating while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants carries penalties similar to DWI offenses, including loss of driving privileges in addition to loss of the privilege to operate a boat in the state.

 

Drug Offenses

New Jersey recognizes a variety of drug offenses, which can result in a wide range of penalties. Personal use of cannabis is legal for persons over 21 years of age, but possession of other controlled substances without a prescription can carry heavy fines and may result in substantial jail time. 

 

Gambling

New Jersey has several types of legal gambling. In addition to the New Jersey lottery, the state allows gambling in licensed casinos, racetracks, and off-track betting facilities as well as at charity fundraising events. It’s also permissible to take part of social gambling like office football pools or poker nights at a friend’s home. Illegal gambling activities are treated as third or fourth degree crimes.

 

Gun Control & Firearms

New Jersey has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation. Anyone in possession of a firearm in NJ must have a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card and/or a Permit to Purchase a Handgun. Unless charged in combination with other serious crimes, firearms violations are classified as second, third, or fourth degree crimes.

 

If you’ve been charged with a crime or offense, thorough and aggressive representation is essential to protect your rights. Mark | Lavigne, LLC and its experienced criminal defense team is here to help you in your time of need.