The wheels of the criminal justice system start turning when you are placed under arrest. As such, law enforcement plays a big part in shaping the outcome of a criminal case, and any mistakes by the police can have a significant impact. It could be errors in search...
Criminal Defense
How is imminent danger established when arguing self-defense?
We live in a highly unpredictable society. One moment you are doing your weekly grocery shopping, the next you are figuring out how to walk out of a mass-shooting scene alive. Fortunately, there are laws in place to deter and/or punish violent crimes. Per New Jersey...
Why fentanyl offenses may lead to harsher penalties
Opioids are synthetic compounds that are similar to traditional opiate medications derived from poppies, like morphine and codeine. Unlike traditional opiates, opioids are easier to source and cheaper to produce. They are often far stronger as well, which makes them...
I missed my court date. What are my defense options?
If you are indicted and charged with certain crimes, you will be directed to appear in court on a specific date for your arraignment. Disregarding your court date can to an additional charge of failure to appear (FTA). Failure to honor your court date can amount to a...
I’ve been charged with harboring a fugitive. What do I do?
A long-lost childhood friend or cousin calls and asks if they can stay at your place for the weekend. You don’t hesitate to welcome them over, but then that very night, law enforcement comes knocking on your door. Through the loudspeaker, they call your guest out. You...
How can you violate a protective order?
If you find yourself the subject of a protective order, you need to follow the rules. If you do not, you could face new criminal charges. But, what amounts to a violation of a protective order? Every protective order is unique. That being said, here are some of the...
Why did that driver think you were invisible?
You get hit as you’re going through a crosswalk. You’re injured and quite shocked. You had the right away and you still got hit by a vehicle, and you don’t understand why it happened. The other driver claims that you showed up out of nowhere – as if you were invisible...
When can you expunge a criminal record in New Jersey?
A criminal record can affect your quality of life long after you have done time and put all that behind you. You could miss job or education opportunities due to a past brush with the law that appears on your record. Fortunately, the law provides some recourse. It is...
When can you change a Breathalyzer test result in N.J.?
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in New Jersey just as it is elsewhere. Even if you are a first-time offender, a conviction can attract serious penalties. In other words, if you are pulled over and charged with DWI, your life is likely to change in...
Do you need to let the police search your vehicle?
Traffic stops are usually just frustrating and inconvenient. Typically, a police officer pulls you over, keeps you on the side of the road for a while, asks you a few questions and then writes you a ticket. However, some drivers get detained by police for far longer...