Misdemeanor Charges
Misdemeanor ChargeS-AKA DISORDERLY PERSONS OFFENSES
A misdemeanor is a quasi- criminal offense that is less serious than a felony and more serious than an infraction or ordinance violation. Misdemeanors/disorderly persons offenses (dp) are generally punishable by a fine and incarceration in local county jail. In New Jersey, you may be charged with a disorderly persons offense (dp) or petty disorderly persons offense (pdp).
Unless your charge is filed together with a felony, your case will be heard in Municipal Court. The specific court depends on the location of the crime. Ms. Fiorino represents people charged with offenses in Municipal Court throughout the State of New Jersey.
While the location of each case may vary, the nature of the cases and potential punishments remain the same.
EXAMPLES OF AND POSSIBLE PUNISHMENT FOR Misdemeanors-
DISORDERLY PERSONS OFFENSES
Just like in felony cases, you are entitled to a trial in which the state has to prove you guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. You also have the right to an attorney. However, unlike felony/indictable crimes, you are not entitled to as jury. Instead, the Judge hears the evidence, decides your guilt or innocence, and imposes a sentence within the confines of the law.
At a maximum, for a misdemeanor/dp you could be sentenced to serve 180 days in the county jail, pay up to $1000 in fines, be placed on probation, and be ordered to other conditions. For a a petty disorderly persons offense, you face 30 days in jail and $500 in fines.
Examples of misdemeanors/dps and petty disorderly persons offenses (pdp) are:
-possession of paraphernalia
-possession of a hypodermic needle
harassment (pdp)
criminal mischief (damage less than $200)
trespass
disorderly conduct, pdp
theft (less than $200)
receiving stolen property (less than $200)
possession of pills not in the proper container
possession of certain pills in small amounts
simple assault
shoplifting
offensive touching
It does not matter how minor the offense is, you need a zealous advocate on your side. Call Ms. Fiorino today.