Blog
- How diversionary programs like PTI or drug court work in NJ
Oct 2, 2025
Facing criminal charges in New Jersey can feel overwhelming. Not every case ends with a conviction. The state offers diversionary programs that may provide some individuals with a second chance. Programs like pre-trial intervention (PTI) and drug court focus on rehabilitation instead of punishment. What is pre-trial intervention (PTI)? PTI is for many first-time, non-violent offenders. They must meet certain requirements to qualify. Instead of going to trial, participants enter a supervised program. This may...Read More - What are examples of status offenses by juveniles?
Sep 25, 2025
When minors break the law, the justice system treats them differently from adults. Some offenses apply only to those under a certain age and are not crimes if committed by adults. These are known as status offenses. Status offenses are intended to protect young people and direct them toward safer behavior. Even though they may not sound serious, these offenses can still have lasting effects on a juvenile’s record and future opportunities. Truancy from school...Read More - Can you avoid distraction as long as you are looking at the road?
Sep 10, 2025
Many driving distractions revolve around issues that take a driver’s eyes off of the road ahead of them. Texting and driving is dangerous when a driver is looking down at their phone, for example, so they may not see things like a traffic light changing, a pedestrian entering a crosswalk or traffic slowing down ahead of them. But is it possible for a driver to avoid distraction as long as they keep their eyes up...Read More - The financial consequences of paying a speeding ticket
Aug 29, 2025
Traffic tickets are embarrassing and potentially inconvenient. Many drivers who get pulled over by police officers want to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. They can achieve that goal by paying the ticket. What they may not realize is that paying the fine associated with the traffic citation is the equivalent of pleading guilty. They have a blemish on their driving record that can affect their options in the future, including their eligibility for...Read More - Upcoming Labor Day targeting impaired drivers
Aug 21, 2025
A joint project with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation, the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” yearly campaign to reduce traffic deaths attributed to drinking or drugging and driving, is now in force. The sobriety campaign started August 15 and will run through the upcoming Labor Day weekend that ends on Sept. 1. Drunk driving wrecks 100% preventable Some accidents appear to be unavoidable. But for...Read More - 5 steps to take immediately after a drug possession arrest
Aug 11, 2025
An arrest for drug possession can shake up your life and bring a lot of uncertainty. What you do next matters. Taking responsible action early, like understanding your rights and seeking the right help, can make a real difference in protecting your future and starting to rebuild your life. Here are five clear steps to follow after a drug possession arrest in New Jersey: 1. Stay calm, but know your rights During an arrest, emotions...Read More - Steps to take after being involved in an auto accident
Aug 3, 2025
An auto accident, especially one involving a truck, can shake your sense of control in an instant. Whether it’s a fender bender or something more serious, your immediate response matters more than you might think. Understanding what you are supposed to do next can protect your safety, preserve important details, and help you avoid avoidable setbacks. 1. First, check on everyone involved Your first concern should always be health and safety. If you or anyone...Read More - Can drivers refuse to perform field sobriety tests?
Jul 22, 2025
During traffic stops, police officers often look for any reasonable indication of criminal activity. If they suspect a driver of being under the influence, they may ask a series of increasingly invasive questions. They may also ask the motorist to step out of their vehicle and submit to field sobriety testing. Field sobriety testing involves performing physical tasks under the observation of a law enforcement professional who uses test performance to gauge an individual’s chemical...Read More - Is it legal for police officers to stop and frisk random people?
Jun 29, 2025
Police officers sometimes go too far in their efforts to solve crimes and protect communities. They might flagrantly violate the rights of individuals who they suspect of criminal activity. For example, they may search people without a valid legal justification. Conducting inappropriate searches could lead to the discovery of compelling evidence. However, people in the United States have constitutional protection from inappropriate warrantless searches. Sometimes, officers force their way into residences without permission. Other times,...Read More - Tips for pedestrians to stay safe around vehicles
Jun 24, 2025
Pedestrian accidents are very dangerous. Every year, people are struck by vehicles while doing things as simple as walking through a parking lot, going for a jog or walking their dog. Even an accident at low speeds can be catastrophic for a pedestrian. So what can you do to stay safe? The following are a few important tips: If you’re walking in the road, always walk against traffic. Use sidewalks when they are available to...Read More