New Brunswick Criminal & Traffic Offenses

New Brunswick Criminal & Traffic Offenses: What You Need to Know

Living in New Brunswick, we’re bound to brush up against some laws now and then. Maybe you rolled through that stop sign or drove over the speed limit in a rush. Or maybe you got into an argument that turned heated. Whatever the case, you may find yourself facing criminal charges or traffic offenses in New Brunswick.

It’s a scary situation, for sure. But don’t panic. With some basic knowledge about New Brunswick’s criminal and traffic laws, you can get through it. This article breaks down the key offenses and penalties so you know what to expect. We’ll also look at some smart defense strategies in case you do end up in court.

Common Criminal Offenses in New Brunswick

Let’s start with the basics. The Criminal Code of Canada sets out the criminal laws we all must follow. New Brunswick has also enacted its own provincial statutes to deal with particular offenses. Some of the most common criminal charges laid in New Brunswick include:

• Assault – This covers everything from threats and attempted violence to actual physical harm. Assault can bring up to 5 years in prison.
• Sexual assault – Unwanted sexual activity without consent. Punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
• Uttering threats – Threatening someone’s safety can lead to up to 5 years imprisonment.
• Theft and fraud – Taking someone else’s property illegally. Theft under $5,000 can mean up to 2 years in jail.
• Break and enter – Illegally entering any building with intent to commit an offense inside. Bringing up to 10 years imprisonment.
• Possession of stolen property – Having goods that were obtained illegally. Can lead to up to 2 years in jail.
• Drug possession – Carrying illegal drugs for personal use. Depending on the substance and amount, penalties range from fines to up to 7 years in prison.

This covers some of the most common charges. But there are many more offenses under the Criminal Code, ranging from harassment to corruption. It’s a lot to take in. But the key is not to panic and to get legal help if you’re facing charges. A criminal conviction can have major consequences in New Brunswick.

Traffic Tickets and Offenses in New Brunswick

Moving violations and infractions under New Brunswick’s Motor Vehicle Act carry less severe penalties than criminal charges. But they can still hit your wallet hard. Some of the most common traffic tickets issued in the province include:

• Speeding – Exceeding the posted speed limit. Fines range from $172 up to $1,234 depending on how fast you were going.
• Careless driving – Operating a vehicle without due care and attention. This brings fines up to $2,000 and possible license suspension.
• Disobeying traffic signs and signals – Failing to stop, yield or adhere to other signs. Fines around $172.
• Distracted driving – Using a cellphone or engaging in other distracting behaviors. Brings fines up to $2,000 for multiple offenses.
• Impaired driving – Driving while impaired by alcohol, drugs or other intoxicants. Can lead to license suspension, fines, and jail time.
• Driving while suspended – Operating a vehicle when your license has been suspended. Can lead to your vehicle being impounded.

As you can see, some infractions like speeding may bring smaller fines. But others like impaired driving have severe penalties similar to criminal charges. So it’s crucial to know the laws and drive responsibly.

Defending Yourself in Court

If you do get a ticket or are facing criminal charges, all hope is not lost. You have legal options to defend yourself in court. Here are some of the most common strategies used in New Brunswick:

• Plea bargaining – Negotiating with the Crown prosecutor to plead guilty to a lesser charge. This avoids trial but brings a criminal record.
• Challenging improper procedures – Questioning whether police followed proper steps, like reading charter rights. Evidence could get thrown out if procedures weren’t followed.
• Casting reasonable doubt – Poking holes in the prosecutor’s case to show reasonable doubt of guilt. Can lead to acquittal.
• Proving extenuating circumstances – Providing evidence of circumstances like self-defense or duress that may justify otherwise illegal acts.
• Seeking leniency – Presenting mitigating factors to the judge during sentencing in pursuit of a lighter penalty.

Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer or traffic ticket agent by your side can go a long way. They know all the ins-and-outs of defending New Brunswick offenses in court.

Getting Legal Help in New Brunswick

If you’re charged under the Criminal Code or face traffic offenses in New Brunswick, it’s essential to get legal help. Here are some options:

• Hire a criminal defense lawyer – For serious criminal charges, a criminal defense lawyer can defend your case in court. Costs can range from $1,500 to $10,000+ depending on case complexity.
• Use legal aid – If you can’t afford a lawyer, Legal Aid New Brunswick offers free services based on financial need.
• Paralegals can help with traffic tickets – Paralegals can provide traffic ticket defense starting around $150-$300. Look for licensed paralegals in New Brunswick.
• Duty counsel at court – Speak with free duty counsel at your first appearance to help guide your next steps.
• Community legal clinics – Non-profit clinics like Moncton Legal Aid Clinic provide some free legal services.

Getting good legal advice can really help take some fear out of the process. Don’t hesitate to explore your options.

The Bottom Line

There you have it – a quick primer on criminal and traffic offenses in New Brunswick. It’s a lot to take in, for sure. No one expects or wants to deal with this stuff. But now you’ve got some solid knowledge to draw on.

You know the common charges, typical penalties, and where to find help. With some level-headed thinking and prompt legal help, you can get through it. Don’t panic, don’t lose hope, and don’t go it alone. Lean on the resources around you.

And hey – we all make some mistakes now and then. What matters is learning from them and not repeating them. Hopefully this article gave you some good insights without too much legal mumbo-jumbo. Let’s all be safe and lawful out there on New Brunswick’s roads and communities. But if you do slip up, you’ve got this!