It is no longer illegal, in most cases, to possess marijuana in New Jersey. There are still limits under the new law, but adults are allowed to have 6 ounces or less. This is a reflection of how marijuana laws have been changing across the country. In many states,...
Criminal Defense
Must the police have a warrant to search my property?
If you are under investigation for a crime, the police will focus heavily on obtaining as much evidence as they can to get a conviction. If they intend to conduct searches then they will most likely need a warrant to do this. After all, the Fourth Amendment protects...
Does a police officer have to be honest with you?
When people think about criminal cases, they often imagine a courtroom where someone swears that they will tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. It is very clear that the truth is important, and they assume that that works both ways. For...
Informed decision making: The risks of plea bargains
While plea deals can offer a way out for defendants facing serious charges, it’s essential to understand the risks involved in taking a plea deal. They are not always in your best interests, and rushing into accepting the prosecution’s offer is not advisable. Below...
2 reasons that evidence may not lead to a criminal conviction
Those accused of criminal acts in New Jersey all too often let the state intimidate them into making mistakes in how they respond to their charges. Quite a few people plead guilty despite never admitting that they broke the law. When police officers or prosecutors...
How police mistakes can impact the admissibility of evidence
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...
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...