Defending against criminal charges can be a tiresome and complicated process. It is important to have experienced legal representation on your side to avoid having your rights trampled upon. Even in cases where defendants are innocent, prosecutors can make compelling arguments for convictions.
Those who have been accused of crimes can contact our attorneys for aggressive advocacy when they need it most. Our team can handle a wide range of criminal matters and will fight hard for our clients’ interests.
If you were arrested in Glassboro, call our criminal defense lawyers at the Lombardo Law Group, LLC by dialing (609) 445-4300 today.
Types of Crimes You Can Be Charged with in Glassboro
New Jersey is different from other states in that it refers to criminal offenses as either “disorderly persons offenses” or “indictable crimes.” Disorderly persons offenses will be used for those who commit lesser offenses like shoplifting and resisting arrest. Meanwhile, indictable crimes refer to more serious offenses like manslaughter and armed robbery.
There are two types of disorderly persons offenses and several degrees of indicatable crimes. The following are the types of crimes you can be charged with in Glassboro:
Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses
Petty disorderly persons offenses are the least serious criminal charge you can face in New Jersey. These refer to less severe disorderly persons offenses like disorderly conduct and harassment. Petty disorderly persons offenses can be punished with maximum jail sentences of 30 days and maximum fines of $500.
Disorderly Persons Offenses
Disorderly persons offenses refer to a wide range of lower-level crimes. These are offenses that are described as “misdemeanors” in many other states. Some examples of disorderly persons offenses include possession of drug paraphernalia, shoplifting of items worth less than $200, resisting arrest, and simple assault. Those who commit disorderly persons offenses can face up to six months in jail and may have to pay a maximum of $1,000 in fines.
Fourth Degree Indictable Crimes
Fourth degree indictable crimes are the least severe class of indicatable crimes. Still, they should not be taken lightly. Fourth degree indictable crimes refer to offenses like cyber harassment, forgery, criminal mischief, and violation of a restraining order. Those who are convicted of such crimes can spend a maximum of 18 months in prison and may have to pay up to $10,000 in fines.
Third Degree Indictable Crimes
Third degree indictable crimes are more serious than fourth degree crimes. They are applied in cases involving offenses such as vehicle theft and arson. If you are convicted of a third degree indictable crime, you may serve between three to five years in jail and pay a maximum fine of $15,000.
Second Degree Indictable Crimes
Second degree indictable crimes involve very serious offenses like vehicular homicide, armed burglary, and aggravated arson. Second degree crimes can carry with them prison sentences between five and ten years and fines totaling up to $150,000.
First Degree Indictable Crimes
Lastly, the most serious of crimes you can be charged with in New Jersey are first degree indictable crimes. Examples of these crimes include murder, armed robbery, and aggravated sexual assault. Convictions for first degree indictable crimes can result in prison sentences lasting between 10 and 20 years. Furthermore, the possibility for lengthier sentences is present in some cases. Fines for first degree indictable crimes can reach up to $200,000.
Other Penalties for Criminal Behavior in Glassboro
In addition to serving time in jail and paying costly fines, criminal charges can result in other penalties as well. For example, you may endure any of the following consequences after being convicted of a crime in Glassboro:
Lost Right to Vote
New Jersey does not permanently bar criminals from voting. However, you may be restricted from voting while in prison, on probation, or on parole. Losing the ability to participate in elections can be devastating for some defendants.
Lost Right to Carry a Gun
After being convicted for certain crimes like domestic violence, you may lose your right to carry or own a gun in New Jersey. This penalty can even be applied in a case where the defendant was not carrying a gun while committing the crime at issue.
Trouble Finding a Job
If you undergo a background check, you can also have trouble finding a job after being arrested in Glassboro. Many employers will be reluctant to hire applicants with criminal records. Thankfully, you may be able to have your record sealed from public view. This is a process referred to as “expungement.” However, expungement may only be accomplished in certain cases. Contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss the possibility of having your criminal record sealed.
Sex Offender Registration
Those who are convicted of sex crimes like sexual assault may have to register as a sex offender. There are many types of restrictions placed on sex offenders’ freedoms. For example, they may not live near areas where children congregate like parks and schools. Furthermore, sex offenders must report every change of address to local law enforcement agencies.
Trouble Finding Housing or Getting a Loan
Additionally, individuals with criminal records can have trouble finding housing or getting a loan. A high number of property owners and banks are hesitant to enter into deals with people who have been convicted.
Talking to the Police After Being Arrested in Glassboro
If you were arrested in Glassboro, you do not have to provide any statements to the police. While you should remain polite and physically cooperative, under no circumstances should you talk to law enforcement officers without consulting with your lawyer first. It is easy to mistakenly provide a statement that can hurt your case. Some statements may not seem incriminating, yet they still cause investigators to assume your guilt. By hiring legal representation, you can ensure that your rights and interests are protected.
Criminal Defendants in Glassboro Can Contact Our Attorneys for Support
If you are facing criminal charges in Glassboro, seek guidance from our criminal defense attorneys at the Lombardo Law Group, LLC by calling (609) 445-4300.
