Municipal Court Offenses

Burlington County Municipal Court Defense

Protecting Your Rights in Mount Laurel, Evesham, Willingboro & Surrounding Towns

Facing municipal court charges in Burlington County? Even minor offenses can lead to jail time, fines, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. Don’t let a simple mistake impact your future. At the Law Office of Nicholas A. Moschella, Jr., LLC, we provide aggressive and experienced defense for clients charged in Burlington County towns, including Mount Laurel, Evesham, Willingboro, Medford, Moorestown, Pemberton, and Florence.

Disorderly Persons Offenses

In New Jersey, criminal offenses are outlined under Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes Annotated. Many of these violations are classified as Non-Indictable or Disorderly Persons Offenses, similar to misdemeanors in other states. If convicted, you could face up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine, and additional court costs and penalties.
There are also Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses, carrying lighter penalties of up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500. However, both Disorderly and Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses can still result in probation, a suspension of driving privileges, and most importantly, a permanent criminal record.
Such a record can significantly impact your future, affecting job opportunities, professional licenses, and even military security clearances. That’s why it’s crucial to take these charges seriously and seek experienced legal representation.

Understanding Municipal Court Offenses

SIMPLE ASSAULT – N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1(a)

Simple assault charges can arise from minor physical contact or threats, often in domestic situations.

• (1) Up to 6 months in jail
• (2) Fines up to $1,000
• (3) Probation, anger management classes, or court-ordered treatment
• (4) Permanent criminal record

Simple assault is common in domestic violence cases. Prosecutors typically consult with victims before agreeing to dismiss or reduce charges.
Charged in Mount Laurel, Medford, or Moorestown? We can help.

HARASSMENT – N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4

Harassment charges often stem from disputes between neighbors, coworkers, or family members and are frequently tied to domestic violence matters.

Examples:

• • a. Repeated calls, texts, or social media messages
  • b. Threats, shoving, or offensive touching
  • c. Behavior meant to annoy, alarm, or cause fear

Penalties Include:

• • • a. Up to 30 days in jail
    • b. $500 fine
    • c. Possible probation

Harassment charges can be subjective, and the alleged victim’s perception often plays a key role. Having an attorney who understands how to build a solid defense is essential.
Facing harassment charges in Evesham, Cinnaminson, or Riverside? We’re ready to defend you.

Resisting Arrest – N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2

Resisting arrest doesn’t always involve violence. Even running away or refusing to cooperate with law enforcement can result in criminal charges.

Degrees of Resisting Arrest

• • • a. Disorderly Persons Offense: Non-violent resistance; up to 6 months in jail
    • b. Fourth-Degree Crime: Resisting by flight or fleeing the scene
    • c. Third-Degree Crime: Using force, threats, or creating a risk of injury

It’s a common misconception that claiming the arrest was unfair is a valid defense. New Jersey law specifically prohibits this argument. A defense attorney can help identify legitimate defenses based on the facts of your case.
Charged in Mount Holly, Delran, or Bordentown? Call us today.

HINDERING APPREHENSION or PROSECUTION – N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3

Hindering charges occur when someone interferes with law enforcement efforts, whether by helping another person avoid arrest or providing false information. These charges can range from a disorderly persons offense to a felony, depending on the circumstances.

You can be charged for:

• • • a. Hiding or helping someone avoid arrest
    • b. Providing money, weapons, or transportation to assist in evasion
    • c. Destroying evidence or tampering with witnesses
    • d. Giving false information to law enforcement

Penalties depend on the seriousness of the related crime:

• • • Disorderly Persons Offense: Minor cases
    • Fourth-Degree Crime: If the aided person is charged with a third-degree crime
    • Third-Degree Crime: If connected to more serious offenses

County prosecutors will assess the situation to determine whether the charge remains a municipal court matter or escalates to an indictable felony. Having an attorney who understands these complexities is critical to achieving the best outcome.

Arrested in Pemberton, Florence, or Maple Shade? We’re ready to fight for you.