Linwood Attorneys Defend Against Allegations of Traffic, DWI and Disorderly Persons Offenses

South Jersey criminal defense lawyers advocate for those who are accused of petty crimes

What many people refer to as misdemeanor crimes are called disorderly persons offenses under New Jersey law. This classification includes driving while intoxicated charges, certain traffic counts, simple assault and other offenses typically prosecuted in municipal court. These offenses can have serious consequences like jail time, fines and license revocations. At Barker, Gelfand, James & Sarvas, P.C., with offices in Linwood, Pitman and Marlton, our defense lawyers give these cases the full attention they deserve and you can count on our fullest efforts to fight these charges.

Effective advocates provide vigorous defenses to charges of driving while intoxicated

In New Jersey, you commit the offense of driving while intoxicated (DWI) if you operate a motor vehicle while you either have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or are mentally or physically impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Even a first DWI conviction may result in as much as 30 days in jail, a hefty fine and revocation of your license for up to three months. Further convictions will likely result in increased penalties. We will challenge the evidence against you as strongly as possible and seek acquittal or reduced penalties. Our defense efforts include challenging the legal basis for the police stop and arrest, the administration of the breath or blood test and the working condition of the equipment used.

Thorough lawyers defend drivers accused of all types of traffic offenses

Other traffic violations such as speeding, reckless driving and failure to observe traffic signals and posted restrictions can also result in criminal penalties as well as the accumulation of points that can lead to higher insurance rates and to license suspension. New Jersey traffic laws can be complicated. For instance, you may be able to avoid conviction for violating non-posted speed limits if you can show you were driving safely. We understand the nuances of the traffic laws and will take advantage of all defenses available to you.

Skilled attorneys defend clients against disorderly persons charges

Also known as “nonindictable crimes” in New Jersey, these lesser charges are divided into two categories:

• Disorderly person offenses — Punishable by up to six months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines, these include such crimes as assault, shoplifting, resisting arrest and possession of up to 50 pounds of marijuana.
• Petty disorderly person offenses — Punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine, these include such crimes as disorderly conduct and harassment.

These cases are generally handled by municipal courts and are often resolved without the need for a trial. Regardless of which category of offense you are charged with, we will work to achieve a disposition that is fair and least disruptive of your life.

Contact a dedicated New Jersey traffic violations and disorderly persons offenses attorney

Barker, Gelfand, James & Sarvas, P.C. represents New Jersey defendants in various types of matters where disorderly persons offenses are alleged, including DWI and other traffic offense cases. Call us at 609-601-8677 or contact us online to schedule a consultation at one of our offices in Linwood, Pitman or Marlton, New Jersey.