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Criminal Law

5 Legal Defenses Against Resisting Arrest

Under New Jersey law, resisting arrest is a serious disorderly person offense that can incur six months in jail or longer, depending on the circumstances. However, it is possible for defendants to drop the charges with the help of an experienced criminal law attorney. Here’s an overview of five possible legal defenses that can be used to challenge a resisting arrest offense.

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Criminal Law

Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor — What Does it Mean?

As most everyone already knows, underage drinking is illegal in New Jersey. Consequently, the act of furnishing an alcoholic beverage to a minor is also against the law in the state and many other parts of the country.

While furnish means to provide or supply, it also encompasses many other acts, meaning that this law isn’t as simple as it may seem. If you’re curious about what this law entails, let’s look at what it means to furnish alcohol to minors, the consequences, and possible exemptions.

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Criminal Law

What Is Obstruction of Justice?

An obstruction of justice is when an individual’s conduct obstructs the administration of law. This term is incredibly broad and encompasses many different types of unlawful actions and behavior. 

In general, a justice obstruction commonly pertains to conduct that hinders and stands directly in the way of law enforcement and court processes. Here are several different forms an obstruction can take.

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Criminal Law

Types of Criminal Cases in New Jersey

Those who are found guilty of a criminal case face heavy and life-changing penalties — however, what is considered a criminal case? The definition of civil and criminal cases and the punishments for being found guilty can vary by state. If you’re interested in learning what criminal cases are in the state of New Jersey, here’s an overview of how they’re defined and what each degree entails.

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Criminal Law

How to Find a Good Criminal Defense Attorney

Hiring a competent defense attorney can make a major difference in the success of your case. As such, knowing the signs of experienced and reliable criminal defense lawyers is of utmost importance. If you’re searching for criminal defense attorneys to assist with your criminal charges, here are five traits you should be on the lookout for.

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Criminal Law

Public Defender vs. Private Attorney: Understanding the Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer

In the intricate realm of criminal law, the choice between a public defender and a private attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At The Law Office of Zapicchi & Liller LLP, we understand the nuances and complexities that surround criminal cases in New Jersey.

Here we’ll delve into the differences between a public defender and a private attorney, shedding light on the advantages of opting for personalized legal counsel.

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Criminal Law

4 Common Drug Possession Defenses

To deter their usage and distribution, the penalties and punishments for drug possession can be incredibly harsh. Defendants found guilty can end up facing hefty fines and years of jail time — but even if they are charged with possessing drugs, that doesn’t mean they are automatically guilty. There are actually many ways that you can defend yourself in court from a possession charge, so let’s take a look at four common drug possession defenses.

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Criminal Law

NJ Supreme Court Decision on Cannabis Offenses and Pre-Trial Intervention

The New Jersey Supreme Court recently issued a ruling that has significant implications for those with prior cannabis offenses. The court’s decision allows people with previous cannabis offenses to still be eligible for diversionary programs such as pre-trial intervention. This is an important step forward in the state’s efforts to reduce the criminal justice burden on individuals convicted of minor marijuana offenses.

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Criminal Law

What to Know About Disorderly Conduct Charges in New Jersey

A variety of laws exist to deter and punish harmful behavior, including disorderly person’s offenses. This law embodies an assortment of aggressive actions and, as a result, can include and punish forms of behavior that you might not expect. Here’s an overview of what a disorderly person’s offense is in New Jersey law and the penalties the accused can expect to receive.

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Criminal Law

Understanding the Penalties of a Forgery Charge in New Jersey

Is forging a signature a crime? Absolutely — and it can result in serious consequences. All states have their own forgery laws, and New Jersey is no exception. If you’re interested in learning more about the state’s penalties for forgery and why forging a signature is a crime, here’s what you need to know.