Harassment Charge in Summit New Jersey
Although there is a tendency to view harassment as a minor criminal charge, the offense has potentially far-reaching negative effects. What started as an emotionally charged lapse in judgment in Summit New Jersey resulting in repeated text messages or telephone calls, inappropriate emails or someone other alarming conduct, can actually land you in jail. Do not make the shortsighted mistake of attempting to defend a harassment offense without the guidance of a skilled lawyer as failure to successfully defend the charge will result in a criminal record and a slew of potential penalties.
The assistance of an experienced criminal attorney from the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall is precisely what you need. We have been practicing in the City of Summit and the rest of Union County for over a century combined with most members also having served as prosecutors. Our knowledgeable lawyers possess an understanding of all of the potential ramifications of your harassment charge and, more importantly, the most effective strategies to to avoid a conviction. Call 908-272-1700 to speak to one of our the lawyers on our team in a free initial consultation.
Summit Harassment Offense
In New Jersey, harassment is a petty disorderly persons offense, which is referred to as a misdemeanor in other states. An individual commits the charge of harassment in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2 if, with the purpose to harass, they engage in the following:
a. Makes, or causes to be made, a communication or communications anonymously or at extremely inconvenient hours, or in offensively coarse language, or any other manner likely to cause annoyance or alarm;
b. Subjects another to striking, kicking, shoving, or other offensive touching, or threatens to do so; or
c. Engages in any other course of alarming conduct or of repeatedly committed acts with purpose to alarm or seriously annoy such other person.
The penalties and consequences you face in Summit Municipal Court for a disorderly persons offense for harassment include having a criminal record, being required to pay up to $500 in fines, and possibly serving a jail sentence of up to 30 days. If the defendant was on parole or probation or serving a term of imprisonment due to a previous conviction for an indictable offense, harassment is a fourth degree crime. The penalties for fourth degree harassment include a fine of up to $10,000 and up to 18 months in prison.
When the violation is committed against someone falling under the NJ Domestic Violence Protection Act, harassment can also result in issuance of a temporary restraining order. The order becomes final, permanently barring any contact between the victim and defendant, if the accused fails to successfully defend a final restraining order hearing.
Summit Harassment Attorney
Whether your harassment charge is in Summit Municipal Court or Union County Superior Court, an attorney at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall is well equipped to defend you. A lawyer at our office is prepared to examine the specific facts of your case and determine the best strategy for helping you avoid a conviction and resulting criminal record. All of the attorneys at the firm with methods for ensuring the best possible outcome in a harassment case, including having charges downgraded or dismissed altogether. Contact our firm 24/7 to speak with one of our lawyers. The initial consultation is always free.
