The Differences Between A Felony and Misdemeanor in New Jersey

It is imperative that you retain legal counsel immediately if you are charged with either a misdemeanor or felony in New Jersey because both types of charges can result in serious consequences to you if you sustain a conviction. Those who have been convicted of misdemeanors or felonies will more often than not obtain a criminal record that will follow them throughout the remainder of their lives, in addition to the initial sentencing, i.e. jail time and fines. Having a criminal record can prevent you from being hired for certain jobs, residing in certain geographical areas, obtaining certain professional licenses and securing certain loans. Whatever types of charges you are facing, please read on, then contact an experienced Mercer County criminal defense lawyer to learn the differences between a felony and a misdemeanor in New Jersey.

How does a felony differ from a misdemeanor in New Jersey?

Felonies and misdemeanors have huge differences from each other. A misdemeanor, simply put, is a minor crime, while a felony is a serious crime that can land you in jail or prison for many years or even the rest of your life. Though not always the case, a misdemeanor will have a smaller impact on your life than the potential long-term consequences of a felony.

Examples of felony and misdemeanor offenses in New Jersey

Misdemeanors:

• Municipal Crimes
• Assaults and threats
• Disorderly conduct
• Public urination
• DWI / DUI, not including injury or fatality
• Minor drug offenses
• Larceny, possession of stolen goods, embezzlement and related offenses
• Resisting or eluding a law enforcement officer
• Trespass, property damage and littering
• Vandalism
• Certain motor vehicle and alcohol offenses
• Health and safety code violations
• Public intoxication
• Lewd behavior
• False imprisonment
• Criminal mischief
• Shoplifting
• Check fraud

Felonies:

• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Aggravated sexual assault
• Kidnapping
• Money laundering
• Drug trafficking
• Aggravated assault

Why do you need a Mercer County criminal defense attorney?

Defendants who represent themselves have fools for clients. Even though you will not face the death penalty in the Garden State, you could face decades behind bars, especially if you have a record. No matter what your unique circumstances are, you will need a skilled criminal defense attorney to aggressively fight your charges at every turn of the process. Our firm is here to help, so please give us a call today.