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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 Harassment in NJ?
In New Jersey, harassment is a legal issue that can have serious consequences for offenders. New Jersey state law addresses harassment under code N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4. This statute defines harassment as engaging in conduct with the purpose of harassing, annoying, or alarming another person. Any of the following actions can be considered harassment.
- Communicating anonymously with an individual at inconvenient times with offensive language or in a manner that is likely to annoy or alarm them
- Striking, kicking, shoving, or touching someone in an offensive way
- Threatening to strike, kick, or touch someone
- Engaging in alarming conduct or repeatedly attempting to alarm or annoy an individual
In general, any behavior that is threatening, annoying, or done at inconvenient times may be considered harassment under NJ state law. There generally needs to be unwanted communications, offensive and nonconsensual touching, or repeated acts of alarming conduct to have a valid case for harassment.
What Are the Penalties for Harassment in NJ?
Standard harassment charges are typically disorderly person offenses. This term is comparable to misdemeanors in other states. Individuals charged with misdemeanor harassment generally face the following penalties.
- Fines of up to $500
- Up to 30 days in jail
- Probation
These charges will result in the convicted individual having a criminal record.
Certain situations may warrant additional charges. Aggravating circumstances can enhance your penalties and cause the prosecution to adjust your charges to either a third or fourth-degree indictable crime. Indictable crime is New Jersey’s term for a felony offense.
Third-degree crime:
- Cyberharassment of a minor or while pretending to be a minor
- Fines of up to $15,000
- Jail time of 3 to 5 years
Fourth-degree crime:
- Harassment while on probation or parole for an indictable crime
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Up to 18 months in jail
The penalties for harassment will vary significantly depending on the details of the situation. These charges are often brought alongside additional charges like assault.
Do I Need an Attorney During My Harassment Case?
Harassment is a criminal offense in New Jersey so it is highly recommended that you obtain the help of a skilled legal professional. Your lawyer will be able to help you gather and organize evidence, create an effective defensive strategy, communicate with necessary authorities, and represent you in a court of law. Having a criminal record can seriously impact your daily life and affect your working and personal relationships. Contact an experienced attorney at the Law Office of Douglas Herring to speak with a lawyer who can help.
