What Cases Does a Municipal Court Law Firm Handle?

Many people are surprised by the number of cases that a municipal court law firm handles each year. Municipal courts hear a large portion of New Jersey’s cases, and many residents hire law firms to represent them. First, learn more about the types of cases these law firms handle. Then, you can hire a firm to represent you if you are going to municipal court.

Types of cases a municipal court law firm handles

A municipal court law firm handles motor vehicle offenses, fish and game violations, simple assault, financial crimes, and ordinance violations. People attend a hearing when charged. They can choose to plead guilty, not guilty, or request an adjournment at the hearing. Attorneys help people at the hearing and trial, if applicable.

Motor vehicle offenses

Motor vehicle offenses are among the most common municipal court cases in New Jersey. Possible violations include speeding, reckless driving, driving without insurance, and driving without a license. Municipal courts also hear cases involving driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Depending on the violation, people face fines, community service, or time in jail. Moving violation convictions also add points to drivers’ licenses, driving up insurance rates.

Fish and game violations

Many people hire a municipal court lawyer after being charged with a fish and game violation. Hunting and fishing without a license are among the most common charges. Violations also include hunting and fishing outside of the season or dumping or littering. This is a sample of the potential violations, and if found guilty, people face penalties. Some pay large fines, while others lose the privilege of hunting and fishing.

Simple assault

Municipal courts also hear cases involving simple assault. This includes disorderly persons, petty disorderly persons, and fourth-degree assault. Petty disorderly persons face up to a $500 fine and can spend 90 days in jail. The penalties include up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail for disorderly persons. Those charged with fourth-degree assault could spend up to 18 months in prison and have to pay up to $10,000 in fines. A municipal court law firm can attempt to dismiss or reduce the charges or limit the sentence.

Minor financial crimes and ordinance violations

People charged with shoplifting, check fraud, theft, or ordinance violations can also end up in municipal court. Ordinance violations might include barking dogs or other noise violations. Penalties depend on the severity of the charges and might consist of fines and jail time. For instance, if someone is charged with writing a bad check for under $200, the judge can impose a sentence of up to six months in prison. The person also might be fined up to $1,000.

Seek help from a municipal court law firm

Municipal courts handle minor offenses when compared to superior court cases. Still, penalties can include large fines and heavy prison sentences. You can protect your rights by hiring a municipal court law firm to represent you. Your lawyer will go over your case and help you work toward a good outcome.