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New Jersey Municipal Courts
Defending People in New Jersey Municipal Courts
MUNICIPAL COURTS affect the lives of more New Jerseyans than all other courts combined. Violations of the NJ Motor Vehicle Code, the state Criminal Code and Municipal Ordinances all may be heard in the municipal court where the offense occurred. These courts can resolve disputes between neighbors, enforce building and safety codes, penalize you for violations of traffic laws and punish criminals. There is no right to a jury trial in municipal court.
Although they are the lowest level courts in our hierarchy, the municipal courts have great impact on our lives. Sitting as traffic court, the municipal judge can revoke your driver’s license, impose penalties that will result in DMV points, and suspend your registration. A conviction may bring also about state DMV surcharges and insurance company surcharges. Numerous motor vehicle violations can also result in jail time; for some violations, jail is mandatory.
Sitting as a NJ criminal court, without a jury, the court may hear all matters considered Disorderly Persons Offenses and Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses. In this capacity, the judge can impose fines, penalties, probation, and community service. In addition, a municipal court judge may order conditions such as urine monitoring, “no contact” with the victim, anger management, and other terms.
Sitting in a quasi-criminal capacity, the municipal judge hears matters involving municipal codes and ordinances. Codes such as the Building Code and Health Code, along with local ordinances, control many of the details of our lives.
If you are facing such charges, it is important to be represented by a lawyer with appropriate experience.
Let us assist you throughout the municipal court process, offer you helpful information and advice, prepare your case with you, and negotiate with the prosecutor to get the best result. Call 973-275-1313 or email marc@garfinkle-law.com to learn how we may help you.
All consultations are strictly confidential.
Watch a video about New Jersey Municipal Courts