Defense Attorneys for Disorderly Persons Charges

Criminal Offenses in Municipal Court

Disorderly Persons Charges

Disorderly persons and petty disorderly persons offenses ("DP offenses") are the most common type of "criminal" charges brought against individuals in the State of New Jersey. In other states, you might know them as "Misdemeanors." If you are convicted of a DP offense, the conviction will appear on a criminal background check, regardless of what a police officer or public official tells you.

Because of this, it is absolutely paramount that you retain an experienced criminal defense attorney who can defend your Constitutional rights in court against the prosecution. 

We understand that seeing "State of New Jersey v. (your name)" can be extremely unsettling, which is why we offer free case consultations to every prospective client in which we'll walk you through your best defense options. Our goal is always to reduce and downgrade your charges or to eliminate them completely when possible. 

Simon Law Group, LLC's attorneys are seasoned litigators and, in fact, Mr. Simon began the practice defending his clients against serious and complex criminal charges in Superior and Municipal court. 

The attorneys at Simon Law Group, LLC are familiar with handling every aspect of these kinds of cases, as they've successfully defended thousands of people against DP and more serious Indictable charges.

Alternatively, you may have been charged with a DUI or an Indictable Criminal Offense in Superior Court. To learn more about these, click the links above. 

Penalties of a Disorderly Persons Conviction

In New Jersey, individuals convicted of a petty disorderly persons offense or standard disorderly persons offense include a jail sentence of up to six (6) months and may be forced to pay fines and penalties totaling approximately $1300, inclusive of court costs. 

"Crime" or "Disorderly Persons" Charge?

In New Jersey, the criminal code refers to violations as "crimes" (which mean an Indictable Offense a.k.a. "Felony" in other states) or as "offenses) (which mean a Disorderly Persons offense a.k.a. "Misdemeanor" in other states). 

Indictable Crimes are those with a punishment of greater than 6 months in jail, whereas a Disorderly Persons offense carries a maximum sentence of less than 6 months in jail. 

Common Misdemeanors include:

• Assault (Simple)
• Disorderly Conduct
• Trespassing
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 
• Harassment
• Shoplifting (in small $ amounts)
• Fake ID's
• Underage Consumption of Alcohol

An individual accused of an Indictable Crime may have his allegations presented to a grand jury, while a person accused of a DP offense does not have the same right, and if elected, must instead stand for trial in front of a judge.