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The Strength To Fight Charges For Indictable Criminal Offenses In New Jersey

Last updated on June 24, 2024

In New Jersey, the most severe criminal acts are called indictable offenses. Other states refer to these crimes as felonies. Indictable offenses carry penalties that can permanently damage your future if you do not have an attorney to defend you.

When you need someone to fight for your rights following a charge for an indictable offense, you can turn to Law Offices of Melissa Rosenblum, LLC. We provide strong criminal defense for clients in Atlantic City and the surrounding communities. Our founding attorney, Melissa Rosenblum, is one of just 25 women in New Jersey who is a certified criminal trial attorney.

What To Know About The Charges You Face

Indictable offenses span a range of criminal acts, many of which involve physical violence or controlled substances. Some of the most common indictable offenses cases we handle include:

  • Drug distribution; defined as the sale, manufacture, exchange, and transfer of illegal drugs. Charges occur when drugs are in a suspect’s possession with an intent to distribute unlawful controlled substances.
  • Operating a drug facility where controlled substances are manufactured. Facilities range from meth labs to more sophisticated cocaine production.
  • Kidnapping, where a person is unlawfully taken and carried away with force. It can also involve the detaining someone against their will.
  • Robbery – the illegal removal of someone else’s’ property or the attempt to steal something that involves threats of force. It can also involve permanently depriving someone of possessions through actual assault.
  • Arson, which is the burning of an occupied or unoccupied dwelling belonging to the suspect or someone else. Certain differences exist when it comes to state and federal laws.
  • Assault; an intentional and violent physical attack that puts another person at risk. No physical injury is required when it comes to pursuing charges.
  • Sexual assault charges include sexual touches without consent. Acts can take the form of everything from groping to rape.
  • Homicide, which involves someone having killed another person, even in self-defense. Manslaughter is similar but does not involve premeditation in the death of another.

There are four degrees of indictable offenses, each with a statutory minimum sentencing schedule. These include:

  • First degree: At least 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $200,000
  • Second degree: At least five years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000
  • Third degree: At least three years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000
  • Fourth degree: Up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000

We have a proven history of securing positive results for our clients, even in complex and difficult cases. Our felony defense lawyers have won acquittals, gotten charges dismissed, achieved diverted sentencing and more for our clients.

Offering Insight When Questions Arise

Serious charges have serious consequences for those convicted, and people faced with indictable offenses often wonder how these charges will impact their future. At Law Offices of Melissa Rosenblum, LLC, we take the time to understand your challenges and provide you with straightforward answers at every stage of the legal process.

Are There Punishments For Indictable Offenses Besides Jail And Fines?

In addition to jail time and fines, these offenses also limit your voting rights while you serve time for a conviction. However, once you have completed your sentence, you can once again register to vote.

New Jersey law also prohibits people convicted of a violent indictable offense from possessing a firearm or ammunition. People convicted of an indictable offense that led to six months of imprisonment or more lose their ability to obtain a purchase permit for a handgun or a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (FPIC).

What’s The Difference Between An Indictable Offense And A Felony?

Many states recognize two different levels of criminal charges: lower level crimes called “misdemeanors” and higher level offenses called “felonies.” However, New Jersey law classifies crimes differently. The state refers to lower level crimes as disorderly persons offenses or petty disorderly persons offenses. More serious charges are called indictable offenses.

Can An Indictable Offense Be Expunged From My Record?

In New Jersey, you can expunge a limited number of criminal convictions from your record. This includes the potential to expunge one indictable offense from your record.

Every person’s situation is unique, and you may have more specific questions when navigating the court system. An experienced attorney can provide you with answers and help you defend yourself from the challenges that can come with a conviction.

Get A Strong Defense Today – Free Consultations

Even in the face of an indictable offense, Law Offices of Melissa Rosenblum, LLC, has the perseverance and strength to defend you. Contact us at (609) 230-4820 or send us an email to set up a free consultation where we can discuss how to help you. Even in the face of an indictable offense, Law Offices of Melissa Rosenblum, LLC, has the perseverance and strength to defend you.