In New Jersey, the possession of illegal drugs is a serious criminal offense and is often met with harsh legal consequences. Because of the potential for significant fines, jail time, probation, and more, it is crucial that you obtain help from an experienced attorney and understand your legal rights and…
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Regardless of the severity of your offense, one of the biggest concerns when you are facing criminal charges is the possibility of serving time in prison. A skilled criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you avoid jail time depending on the details of your situation and the evidence…
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Aggravated assault is a serious, violent offense that can be accompanied by severe legal consequences in New Jersey. A simple assault charge can be elevated depending on the circumstances of the crime like the severity of the injuries inflicted or if they used a weapon. Keep reading to learn more…
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Anytime you are facing a criminal investigation or charges, it is crucial to understand whether or not professional representation is required. Lawyers can benefit a case in various ways and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Continue reading to learn how to know whether or not you…
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In the United States, when an individual breaks the law they may be committing either a state or federal crime. These two are different in many ways. While they may share some similarities, if you are facing criminal charges it is important to understand the difference between a state and…
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When you are convicted of a crime the prospect of going to jail can be daunting and unpleasant. It is helpful to understand all of your legal rights and options before a verdict is determined. In New Jersey, many crimes have the option of probation instead of incarceration. If you…
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If you were arrested for a crime in New Jersey it is crucial that you understand the process of getting released on bail. Having freedom during the trial is important for many. Continue reading and work with a Mercer County criminal defense lawyer to understand your rights as well as…
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When a crime is committed the most important thing the police or detectives can do is find evidence that will help identify the perpetrator. DNA evidence is one of the strongest tools that can be used in a criminal case. If you have questions regarding the impact DNA may have…
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If you are facing criminal charges and miss a court date it can have significant legal consequences. If your charges are minor then failing to appear may not be a big deal. However, depending on the judge and the severity of your offense, you can face harsh penalties for missing…
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In New Jersey, it is a crime to leave the scene of an accident. Commonly referred to as a hit and run, this is a serious crime and can result in significant legal consequences. If you left the scene of the accident and are now facing criminal charges it is…
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While .08 is widely accepted as the legal limit of alcohol in your blood for you to be able to drive a car, you can still get a DUI if your breathalyzer results are under that number. In New Jersey, operating a vehicle while impaired is illegal, regardless of the…
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An individual’s history of criminal behavior can significantly influence the outcome of a new case. Under the United States justice system, it is believed that prior behavior will likely predict future behavior. Past convictions can affect sentencing for new crimes as a prior criminal record is often considered an aggravating…
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DUI checkpoints are a valuable tool that can be used to counteract drunk driving. While they are not generally used every day, they can prove beneficial during high-risk times like holidays. Although New Year’s Eve can be filled with fun festivities, it is one of the deadliest nights of the…
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If you threaten someone and cause them to genuinely fear for their safety you can be found guilty of several types of offenses. It is a crime to threaten someone in New Jersey and the associated penalties can be severe. If you were arrested for criminal threats, reach out to…
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Though it may seem like a harmless or juvenile crime, shoplifting is a felony in many states and can be punishable by serious legal consequences. The terms misdemeanor and felony are not used in New Jersey law. Instead, disorderly person offenses and indictable crimes are used to communicate similar offenses,…
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The Fourth Amendment protects individuals from unlawful searches and seizures of their property. However, if there is reasonable suspicion to believe that a crime is taking place, a judge may issue a search warrant granting law enforcement the ability to search property and seize evidence without the owner’s consent. If…
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In New Jersey, DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charges are treated seriously and the associated penalties reflect that fact. Many individuals facing DUI charges wonder if they can be reduced to a lower offense. In years past the answer would have been a firm no in New Jersey. However, recent…
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Seniors are one of the most vulnerable demographics when it comes to physical and financial abuse. According to statistics, the rate of assaults involving senior citizens has risen over 75% for men and over 35% for women in the past 20 years. Elder abuse is a serious crime and a…
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When you cause a car accident it is natural to feel panicked and nervous about the potential repercussions. However, you have to face the music and deal with the consequences of your actions. By fleeing the scene of an accident you are committing a crime and the penalties for a…
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Getting charged with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in New Jersey is a serious offense. Your conviction will be accompanied by various penalties including fines, potential jail time, and a loss of your driving privileges. If your license was suspended you are probably eager to get back on the…
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DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, is the crime of operating a vehicle while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. This is a serious offense in New Jersey and can result in dire consequences like extensive property damage, injury, and even death. A third DUI is one that occurs within 10…
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Unfortunately for convicted felons, it can be hard to obtain or maintain a job. Employment is only one aspect of daily life that can be impacted by a criminal record. It is important to create an effective defense so work with a Mercer County criminal defense lawyer during your case…
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If a police officer suspects you of drunk driving while on the road or during a routine traffic stop, there are a number of ways they may determine whether or not you are intoxicated. When an officer asks you to perform a field sobriety test you may be unsure of…
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Whether or not a felony can be expunged from your record in New Jersey depends on various factors including the nature of your offense, the amount of time that has passed since your conviction, and your overall behavior since the guilty verdict. Speak with a Mercer County expungement lawyer to…
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When you get pulled over for a possible DUI the police officer will certainly ask you if you have been drinking. How you answer this question will impact the rest of your night and could be the difference between you getting arrested or being free to go. If a police…
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Like most states, harassment is considered a crime in New Jersey. The penalties for a conviction will vary depending on several factors related to the case. Work with a Mercer County criminal defense attorney for skilled representation and legal advice during your harassment case. Is it a Crime to Commit…
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At the Law Office of Douglas Herring, we are aware of recent incidents at Princeton University’s on-campus store where a self-checkout machine glitch may have led to shoplifting charges for several students. Allegedly, the glitch caused the machines to not register the first scanned item, resulting in later accusations of…
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When an individual is arrested for an illegal activity their charges will be categorized as either a felony or misdemeanor. Misdemeanor charges in New Jersey can result in various penalties including jail time. If you are facing criminal charges in NJ it is important to ensure you have skilled legal…
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When a defendant is issued a criminal conviction in New Jersey they generally have the chance to appeal the decision. Depending on the specific circumstances of the case the petition may or may not be valid. Contact a Mercer County criminal defense lawyer today for information about your right to…
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Any case involving drug crimes is considered a criminal case. The repercussions of drug cases can be serious so it is important for a defendant to be aware of their rights. Hire a Mercer County drug crime lawyer to ensure your rights are protected during your case. As a Defendant…
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If you have a criminal record and are facing charges for another crime you may receive enhanced penalties. A prior conviction can impact the penalties and sentencing you receive for current drug offenses. A Mercer County drug crime lawyer can offer skilled representation and counsel during your criminal case. Reach…
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If you are pulled over by a police officer and they find drugs on you or in your car you can face serious repercussions. Continue reading and reach out to a skilled Mercer County drug crime lawyer for more information about the best defenses that can be used when facing…
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An ignition interlock device is designed to keep the roads safe from intoxicated drivers. Most alcohol-related crimes will result in the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, but read on and speak to a Mercer County DUI lawyer to learn whether or not you will be required to use…
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Getting a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in New Jersey results in several consequences designed to penalize the driver and discourage them from engaging in the same reckless behavior. The fines, jail time, and license suspension associated with a DUI can be life-altering, especially when it is a second or…
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Domestic violence is a crime that affects millions of Americans annually. However, not all accusations of domestic violence are rooted in the truth. A person may make a false claim of abuse for various reasons whether it is to benefit their divorce case, gain custody of their children, or inflict…
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When it comes to illicit drugs or unauthorized firearms, possession charges can be accompanied by significant penalties. If you are facing charges related to constructive possession, you need an experienced attorney's help to reduce or dismiss your charges. Contact a Mercer County criminal defense lawyer today to discuss your situation…
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Law enforcement has a duty to protect the public and put a stop to criminal activity. Sometimes their job means they must perform searches and seizures of property and evidence. If you are suspected of criminal activity relating to drugs, you have certain rights regarding a police search. Work with…
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Anyone convicted of a DUI will likely wonder what the consequences of it will be. Will they lose their license? Go to jail? A DUI conviction can impact a person’s life in many negative ways. Many states categorize a DUI as a criminal offense, meaning it will always show up…
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Being arrested for a DUI can be scary and overwhelming, especially when you consider the trial and penalties that are to come. The consequences of a DUI are severe and even more so when a minor passenger is in the vehicle. If you were arrested for intoxicated driving with a…
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Plea bargains are often used for the prosecution and defense to come to a middle ground and avoid going to trial. Plea bargains were not previously acceptable for DUI cases in New Jersey but new bills have been signed into law that change that fact. Speak with a Mercer County…
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It is every United States citizen’s constitutional right to not be subjected to unlawful searches and seizures. However, if the police or another law enforcement agency suspects that a crime has been committed they can request a warrant from a judge. A judge may issue a search warrant or arrest…
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Intoxicated driving is a common and unfortunate reality of today. Approximately 32% of all car crash deaths in the United States involve drunk drivers. Police do important work by identifying the signs of intoxicated driving and making arrests before accidents and injuries can occur. One of the ways an officer…
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Restraining orders are civil court orders that outline rules for a person to abide by. The person being served has likely been harassing, stalking, or harming a person to the extent that they have decided to request a protection order. Restraining orders are important and allow a victim of harassment…
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Parole is an important benefit to many incarcerated people. Through parole, certain inmates are allowed to be released early under the supervision of a parole officer. The parolee agrees to certain conditions and their freedom is contingent upon their behavior after being released. When you violate your parole in New…
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New Jersey legalized the recreational use of marijuana in 2021, but there are still many drugs that are illegal to both manufacture and possess. Certain drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine are derived from plants and chemicals, respectively. With the right tools and knowledge, an average person is able to manufacture…
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We live in a world of booming technology. With the benefits that the advancement of technology brings, there are detrimental effects as well. Computer crimes are now common and technology is used to commit a variety of illegal activities. Read on and speak with a Mercer County criminal defense lawyer…
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When people think of a stalker they may picture a creepy person peeking into a bedroom window. This is one version of stalking, but there are many ways that a person could be convicted of the crime of stalking in New Jersey. Contact a Mercer County criminal defense lawyer to…
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When a crime or situation results in the end of someone’s life, the liable party may have committed homicide. Homicide is a serious crime in New Jersey with harsh penalties including substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences. You could even face life without parole in some cases. To discuss the…
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The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) is a United States government agency that decides on and enforces federal tax laws. Every year qualifying citizens must file their taxes to determine if they paid too many taxes, too little taxes, or just the right amount in the past year. If you paid…
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Credit card fraud is an unfortunate reality for many people across the United States. It is a form of identity theft. Credit card fraud entails the theft of information from credit or debit cards with the intent to illegally obtain funds or goods. Someone convicted of credit card theft could…
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Narcotics and other controlled substances can have dangerous and lethal effects. Their strength and potential to cause irreparable damage is why there are strict laws surrounding the prescription and distribution of certain substances. It is illegal to possess certain drugs without a valid prescription in New Jersey. If you are…
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Car insurance can be costly and annoying to pay, especially if you do not frequently get into accidents. If your driving record is clean, you might ask yourself why you are paying for insurance at all. However, driving without insurance in New Jersey is a crime, even for the most…
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If you are facing armed robbery charges you are likely worrying about possible defenses you can utilize during your trial. There are a few strategies that may help you have your charges dismissed or lessened. Obtain the help of a skilled attorney by reaching out to a Mercer County armed…
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You may think that the crimes of murder and manslaughter are essentially the same. They sound similar and both result in a person’s death so their definitions probably overlap, right? This is a common misconception. Though both murder and manslaughter do define the killing of a person, the circumstances of…
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Assault is always a serious matter, whether it is aggravated or simple. Aggravated assault can cause extensive damage to a person’s well-being, so the penalties for a conviction can be quite severe. Acquire the services of a Mercer County assault defense lawyer for legal advice and representation. What is Aggravated…
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Theft is a major crime taken seriously across the entirety of the United States. It is defined as the unlawful stealing of someone else’s property without permission. In New Jersey, theft can be charged as a misdemeanor, referred to as a disorderly persons offense, or a felony. Either way, there…
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Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense. DUI, also known as DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in New Jersey, is the act of driving a car while being affected by the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. It is a perilous crime that can result in serious injury and death,…
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Burglary, by definition of New Jersey state law, is the crime of illegally entering a property with the intention to commit another crime. Receiving a burglary conviction can be daunting when you consider the impact a felony charge can have. The three instances in which you could be convicted of…
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The consequences of a DUI charge can be significant and life-changing. Not only could it result in serious injury or death of the driver and innocent passersby, but the driver’s life will undoubtedly be altered if they are convicted. DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are…
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Child abuse is taken seriously in all states. It consists of neglect, abandonment, physical abuse, sexual abuse, exploitation, and any actions that intend to harm the well-being of the child. When someone reports abuse out of concern for the child, the report is being made in good faith. This means…
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Despite how many people may minimize the charge, shoplifting offenses can have very heavy consequences. Being convicted of shoplifting in New Jersey can result in you facing fines, probation, community service, as well as a criminal record. Given this, you may be asking yourself if it is possible to get…
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If you are convicted of a DUI, possibly one of the most burdensome penalties is license suspension. Post-conviction, your license is automatically suspended. In New Jersey, how long will depend on several factors, but finding your mobility more limited is often a difficult disruption to a person’s daily life. Getting…
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When cocaine and crack are sold as drugs, they can have horrific consequences, in terms of their addictive power, negative effects on the body, and intense ramifications for the communities where they might be sold. In trying to tackle this issue, and in recognition of abusive past legal attempts to…
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If you’ve been accused of a crime and arrested, you’ve likely been through an utterly terrifying time. You may reasonably have a lot of questions about your immediate and long-term future. This blog will try to address those fears by giving you an overview of what the typical criminal trial…
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Just as mental health plays a role in every part of our lives, so can it play a role when crimes are committed. The federal government estimates that up to 16% of incarcerated people have struggled with their mental health. The stigma against mental illness remains harsh even today—notable from…
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When you commit a traffic violation in New Jersey, you’ll usually be ticketed, which ticket also serves as a traffic summons. Traffic violations can include everything from illegal parking to a DUI (driving under the influence). Sometimes, if the circumstances warrant it, traffic violations are punished very severely, with hefty…
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Sobriety checkpoints can be complicated situations. On the one hand, they help make sure that drivers are sober and driving well. On the other hand, a badly directed checkpoint can be easily abused to harass drivers who haven’t committed a violation. You may have been on either side of this…
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Police in the United States arrest about 1.5 million for DUI/DWI charges every year. In most states, if your blood alcohol content (BAC) level is at 0.08% or higher, you may be charged with a DUI/DWI. (DUI is short for “driving under the influence” and DWI is short for “driving…
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Stand your ground laws are comparatively recent legal creations that have been in the news since their inception. Does New Jersey have a stand your ground law? If not, how and when does New Jersey allow you to use force in self-defense? This article will explain self-defense in the context…
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Of all the defenses you may want to use, ignorance of the law is quite limited in its applications. It may work in your case, but be aware that you will need a particularly skillful attorney. Beginning with the fear that ignorance of the law is impossible to truthfully prove…
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Privacy has been viewed differently during different eras. It may be difficult, for example, to achieve today the level of privacy—isolation?—those in past eras by living in a cabin out in the woods. Cabins have internet access nowadays, after all. Given this, courts across the country (inclusive of New Jersey),…
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In New Jersey as in most states, drivers are required to comply with a chemical test, upon request from a police officer. The doctrine of implied consent regarding automobiles means that by simply using the road, you are giving consent to a chemical test. But does that implied consent extend…
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Adolescent drunk driving poses a huge concern, which the United States government has been trying to address since at least 1995, when it passed legislation requiring states to consider a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for underage drivers of 0.02%. In the years since, many states have adopted laws and…
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In New Jersey, burglary is considered a non-violent crime, as opposed to robbery, which is seen as a violent crime. Garden State courts consider burglary to be a crime against property and not against a victim who would be threatened with force. Even so, burglary charges have serious consequences, with…
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DWI/DUI charges carry heavy penalties regardless of where they occurred, but a driver who gets charged with an out-of-state DUI may face doubled punishment. Get in touch with a Mercer County DUI lawyer if you’re facing a DUI charge from outside of NJ. Our legal team has experience tackling this…
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New Jersey laws regarding the possession and distribution of drugs like marijuana have changed recently. Read on to stay informed about what the law does and does not permit. If you’re facing a drug charge of any kind, including drug trafficking, don’t hesitate to contact a Mercer County drug crime…
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Going through the justice system can be one of the most daunting events in someone’s life, with some of the most long-lasting consequences. 27 states have incorporated a minimum age for arrest, prosecution, and punishment within the juvenile justice process. However, despite recent legislative efforts, New Jersey is not among…
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If you are being charged with a crime, the prosecutor plays an important role in the proceedings. Obviously, they want to find you guilty. They have built a case trying to show that. You may be wondering what else they can do though, and how their actions could affect your…
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When a jury is assigned a criminal case, they are given specific instructions. One is that they should only convict someone of a crime if the state has proven their case beyond a “reasonable doubt.” This is the metric used to decide whether or not someone gets sent to jail…
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Most people end up getting called for jury duty eventually, and while it can seem like an inconvenience we think that you might be better off thinking of it as a great chance to participate in our criminal justice system. Everyone has the right to plead their case in front…
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Sometimes it can seem easier to just plead guilty to a charge and move on, especially if the prosecutor is telling you how much jail time you will face if you get convicted at trial. However, it is rarely intelligent to put in a guilty plea unless you have had…
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Being falsely accused of sexual assault can be a scary experience, and you are probably thinking that you just want to get out of this situation as soon as you possibly can. You need to be careful though, and you need to make sure that you are protecting yourself and…
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When you are charged with a crime, the judge sets a bail amount. If you pay this amount, you can stay out of prison until your court date. Bail can be set quite high though, which is why some people require bail bonds. A Mercer County criminal defense lawyer can…
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If you are being charged with racketeering in New Jersey, you can be certain that the proposed punishments are going to be harsh. The state can take years and years to build this kind of case, so you need to take these charges seriously. Your first order of business should…
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You can still be charged with a crime even if you claim that you were forced into committing it. People are sometimes threatened and ordered to do things that they normally never would have done, but that does not mean that someone can go free simply because they say that…
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Police interrogations can be scary experiences, but you have to remember that you have rights of your own. Whether you are suspected of a crime or the cops believe that you can incriminate someone else, you need to think carefully about what you say to the police. You should also…
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Taxes are one of the few certainties in life, and trying to avoid paying them never seems to end well for anyone. If you are being accused of committing tax evasion, you need to take the charge seriously. You should also seriously consider hiring a Mercer County white-collar crime lawyer…
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A grand jury subpoena is issued by prosecutors who are looking for some evidence of a crime occurring. If you are being served with one, you can be sure that the state has you in their sights for one reason or another. Unfortunately, it can be hard to tell exactly…
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The state of New Jersey takes accusations of domestic violence seriously. Someone who levels a false allegation against somebody can waste a lot of the state’s time and resources. If you are the one being falsely accused, you may be wondering how to react. You need to talk to a…
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If you are facing a felony charge, one of your worries might be how it will affect your career. We do not want to be the bearers of bad news, but it is true that a felony conviction could derail everything that you have been working for. That is why…
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If you have watched a lot of cop shows, you might be under the impression that many cases eventually go to trial. Some can be dropped before they reach that point, but you should have a jury trial waiting for you at the end of the process, if that is…
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An accusation of domestic violence is a serious one. Such a charge can easily be upgraded to a felony, and that means harsh punishments and the potential for long jail sentences. If you are facing such accusations, you need to understand your rights and get ready to clear your name.…
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Whether you are accused of defrauding Medicaid or a private health insurer, healthcare fraud is a serious crime with some severe penalties. You must take such charges seriously and be ready to fight back. An experienced Mercer County white-collar crime lawyer from our law firm can assist you. Could I…
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New Jersey does allow you to defend yourself if you are attacked, but there are limitations. If you harmed someone and you are claiming self-defense, the state can still file charges against you. Whether or not a claim of self-defense can be effective depends on a number of factors, but…
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In this country, there is some expectation of privacy and protection from unwanted government intrusions. This means that members of law enforcement can not simply search any person or property that they want to without cause. They need the proper paperwork too. If you believe that cops did violate your…
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If you get charged with a DUI, your first priority needs to be forming a defense that can prevent you from getting convicted. Even a first DUI charge can result in heavy penalties, and a conviction can actually stay on your record for life. Fortunately, there are a few ways…
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The act of bullying has changed quickly thanks to the invention of the Internet. Now it is possible for kids to bully someone who is miles away, outside of school hours when they can be held accountable. Most of us can agree that cyberbullying is bad behavior, but is it…
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Mortgage fraud can take many different forms, but no matter which kind of fraud you are charged with one thing is certain. The punishments are likely to be quite severe. If you believe that you have been falsely accused of mortgage fraud, you need to take the necessary steps to…
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Sometimes the criminal justice system allows someone to wipe away some previous charges. Through a process called expungement, a former error is no longer public knowledge. Law enforcement agencies can still find a charge on your record, but most background checks will not. One charge that many people are eager…
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