Scotch Plains Criminal & Traffic Offenses
Contents
The Most Common Criminal Offenses
Let’s start with criminal offenses. The most common ones people in Scotch Plains get charged with are:
Drug possession – This includes possession of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, prescription medications without a prescription, or other illegal drugs. Even small amounts can lead to charges. Penalties depend on the drug and quantity, ranging from fines to many years in prison.
DUI – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Can be charged even if your BAC is under 0.08% if officers think your driving was impaired. Penalties get worse with repeat offenses.
Assault – Intentionally or recklessly causing injury to someone else. Includes charges like assault and battery. Penalties based on severity of injury.
Theft – Taking someone else’s property without permission, including shoplifting, burglary, pickpocketing. Charges vary based on value of items stolen.
Weapons Offenses – Illegal possession of firearms, knives, brass knuckles, etc. Charges depend on the type of weapon and your criminal record.
Vandalism – Damaging or defacing property that doesn’t belong to you. Can include graffiti, slashed tires, smashed windows.
Domestic Violence – Violence or threats against a spouse, partner, family member. Penalties harsher if injuries occur.
Disorderly Conduct – Acting in a way that’s considered dangerous or disruptive to others. Ex: loud music, public intoxication, fighting.
Resisting Arrest – Physically struggling against an officer, fleeing, or refusing to comply with orders during arrest. Makes other charges worse.
Drug Dealing – Manufacturing, distributing, or possessing large quantities of illegal drugs with intent to sell. Among the most serious charges.
Sex Crimes – Rape, sexual assault, child pornography, indecent exposure. Require registering as a sex offender if convicted.
That covers some of the most common criminal charges in Scotch Plains. The penalties can be life-changing, especially for repeat offenses. So what should you do if you’re arrested?
Getting Legal Help is Crucial
First, cooperate with the police during your arrest – anything you say can be used against you, so don’t admit guilt or make statements without a lawyer present. Once you’re able to, call an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. A lawyer can help make sure your rights are protected, advocate for bail or release, and start building the strongest defense for your charges.
The legal process can feel overwhelming. But a good attorney will handle the complicated stuff like:
- Negotiating with the prosecutor – A skilled lawyer knows how to get charges reduced or dismissed through plea bargains. They’ll negotiate the best deal possible.
- Gathering evidence – Your attorney can investigate what really happened, interview witnesses, obtain documents and records that help your case.
- Planning your defense – There are many legal defenses that could get your charges dropped or reduced. An attorney knows which options apply to your case.
- Representing you in court – They’ll speak on your behalf in court hearings, file motions, pick a jury, question witnesses, and make arguments to show reasonable doubt.
Having an advocate in your corner from day one makes a huge difference. Public defenders are an option if you can’t afford a lawyer – though they often have high caseloads. For the best chance at beating your charges, hiring a private criminal defense attorney is wise investment.
Common Traffic Violations
Now let’s talk traffic tickets. Unlike criminal charges, these won’t land you in jail but can still cause fines, points on your license, and increased insurance rates. Some common traffic offenses in Scotch Plains include:
Speeding – Exceeding speed limits. Fines start around $50 plus $30 in court fees. Getting caught going 20+ mph over the limit can lead to bigger fines and license points.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs – Can lead to fines around $100 plus points on your license. More serious if you cause an accident.
Careless Driving – Reckless driving, tailgating, swerving between lanes. Fines up to $400 plus license points.
Texting and Driving – Prohibited in NJ except for emergencies. Up to $400 fines for first offense.
Driving without Insurance – All NJ vehicles must be insured. Without it, you can be fined $300 – $1000 for a first offense.
Driving with a Suspended License – Up to $500 in fines and additional license suspension. Can lead to jail time for repeat offenses.
DUI – Mentioned earlier, but a serious traffic offense too with severe penalties.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident – Up to $400 fine, license suspension, and criminal charges if injuries/serious damage occurred.
Failure to Yield to Pedestrians – Not stopping for people in crosswalks. Fines up to $200.
Parking Violations – Fines for parking illegally, in handicap spots, blocking hydrants, etc. Vary by type.
Equipment Violations – Fines for broken headlights, expired registration, window tinting, loud exhaust, etc.
The list goes on. Many traffic tickets can be handled without an attorney – you can plead guilty and pay fines, or request a hearing to fight the charges. But for serious offenses like DUI, reckless driving, or if your license could get suspended, having a lawyer’s help is a good idea. They know how to negotiate with prosecutors and defend you in traffic court.
Don’t Panic – Take Action
Dealing with criminal charges or traffic violations is stressful. But with the right legal help, you can get through this! If you’ve been arrested or ticketed in Scotch Plains, stay calm, be polite, cooperate with police (without admitting guilt), and call an experienced local defense attorney for assistance. They’ll handle the tough legal stuff while you focus on moving forward.
With an attorney’s guidance, many charges can be reduced or dismissed. You have options – even if it doesn’t seem like it now. So take a deep breath, let your lawyer protect your rights, and trust that they’ll build the strongest case for beating your charges in Scotch Plains.