There are many explanations for the high number of disorderly conduct charges in New Brunswick. The presence of tens of thousands of college students, vibrant nightlife and so many alcohol related activities in the City translate in a much higher incident of individuals charged with disorderly conduct in New Brunswick than most Middlesex County municipalities. If you were issued a New Brunswick disorderly conduct complaint for allegedly disturbing public peace, you should do your very best to avoid a conviction otherwise you will have a criminal record that can severely impact your future. An attorney the Marshall Law Firm can help you escape such an outcome just like they have for countless clients charged in New Brunswick over the last several decades. Our team of skilled defense lawyers includes several former prosecutors and a team of eight litigators with over a century of combined experience defending charges like yours. Contact our office for a free consultation with a lawyer who can thoroughly protect your interests.
Disorderly Conduct Offense in New Brunswick New Jersey
There are two categories of misconduct that can result in a disorderly conduct offense in New Brunswick New Jersey. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2, an individual can be charged with disorderly conduct if they engage in improper behavior or, alternatively, use offensive language. Improper behavior must be undertaken for the purpose of causing public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly create such a risk, and involve: (1) fighting, threatening, violent or tumultuous behavior; or (2) conduct that creates a hazardous or physically dangerous condition that serves no legitimate purpose.
Penalties for Disorderly Conduct. Disorderly conduct is a petty disorderly persons offense that falls within the jurisdiction of the New Brunswick Municipal Court. A conviction on this charge results in a fine of up to $500, up to 30 days in jail, probation and can even result in a suspension of your driving privileges.
Conditional Dismissal of a New Brunswick Disorderly Conduct Offense. A petty disorderly that is not drug related may be resolved as the result of successful completion of the conditional dismissal. This program is reserved for first time offenders who complete one year of probation. An individual avoids a criminal record and all other penalties under this diversionary program.
Amendment to a New Brunswick Municipal Ordinance Violation. A disorderly conduct charge is criminal in nature and a conviction results in a record; conversely, a municipal ordinance violation does not. A common strategy undertaken by our lawyers is therefore to pursue a downgrade to a municipal ordinance in the event that a dismissal cannot be secured. Ordinance 9.04.050, captioned “Disorderly conduct”, provides that it is unlawful for any person to: (1) make any indecent exposure; (2) expose genitals, pubic hair, buttocks or anal region; (3) annoy persons passing on the streets or sidewalks, while sitting or standing on porches or lawns or yards facing the streets or sidewalks, by the making of indecent gestures or acts; or (4) possess a radio, phonograph, tape or cassette player, television, musical instrument loudspeaker, or amplifier, or other machine or device for the electronic or stereophonic production or reproduction of sound that is operated on any public street, highway, building, sidewalk, park, recreation area, thoroughfare, or other public place, and any vehicle on a public street, area, thoroughfare, or other public place, and any vehicle on a public street, highway or public space that disturbs the quiet enjoyment of the city.
New Brunswick Disorderly Conduct Defense Lawyer
Our many years of experience handling New Brunswick disorderly conduct offenses has provided us with invaluable insight as to the best strategies and approach in order secure a favorable outcome for our clients. A defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall would be more than happy to discuss how we can help you achieve a dismissal or downgrade on your behalf. An attorney is available in our New Brunswick Office to assist you 24/7. Call us at 732-210-6241 for immediate assistance with one of our attorneys.
