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In 2021, New Jersey lawmakers updated the classification of strangulation assault, raising it from a third-degree crime to a second-degree crime. This change reflects the growing recognition of the severe, life-threatening nature of strangulation in The updated law imposes harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences, as strangulation is now categorized alongside more serious felonies. Under this new legislation, a conviction for strangulation assault can result in up to 10 years in prison and fines...

As the Halloween season approaches, festivities and celebrations are in full swing, but this time of year also brings a spike in certain types of criminal activity. From parties that get out of hand to increased juvenile offenses, Halloween season can create legal challenges for many individuals. If you’re facing charges for crimes committed during this time, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and the consequences you might face. Working with an experienced ...

In today’s digital world, teens often use smartphones and social media in ways that can have unintended consequences. One of the growing concerns is In this blog, we’ll explore the legal consequences of juvenile sexting, the penalties under New Jersey law, and what parents should do to protect their child from severe punishment. If your teen is facing juvenile sexting charges, it’s crucial to work with a What is Juvenile Sexting? Sexting refers...

Drug possession charges are serious, but if you’re caught with drugs in a New Jersey school zone, the consequences can be even more severe. New Jersey’s laws aim to protect children and educational environments, so offenses that occur near schools carry harsher penalties. Whether you’ve been charged with possessing marijuana, Understanding New Jersey’s School Zone Drug Laws New Jersey’s drug-free school zone laws are designed to deter You might not even realize you’re...

Being arrested on The Role of the Victim in Domestic Violence Cases New Jersey takes domestic violence cases very seriously, with the state committed to protecting victims and upholding justice. Even if the alleged victim wishes not to testify, the prosecutor can still move forward with the case. This is because domestic violence is considered a matter of public concern, and the state's role is to represent the broader public interest. Prosecutorial Discretion Prosecutors...

If you're facing 1. Remain Calm and Avoid Panic When confronted with criminal charges, it's natural to feel a wave of emotions—fear, anxiety, and confusion. However, staying calm is essential. Panicking can lead to poor decisions, such as saying something incriminating or resisting arrest. Here's what to do: Take a moment to breathe deeply Focus on the steps ahead Remember 2. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent Your right to remain silent is...

A criminal record can have far-reaching consequences that affect various aspects of an individual's life. From employment opportunities to social relationships, the repercussions of having a criminal record can be profound and enduring. However, understanding these impacts and knowing the steps to mitigate them can significantly improve one's chances of overcoming the associated challenges. At Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, our experienced New Jersey Understanding the Impact of a Criminal Record Employment Opportunities One of the...

Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. Understanding what to expect during a New Jersey criminal trial can help you navigate this challenging time with more confidence. At Your First Step: The Arraignment The arraignment is your first formal appearance in court following an arrest. During this stage, you will be formally charged with the alleged crime, and the charges will be read aloud. You will then enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or...

If you feel unsafe around someone, you may decide to get a restraining order. A restraining order prohibits the person from coming within a certain distance of you. Learn everything you need to know about restraining orders, including how to file for one. What is a Restraining Order? A restraining order is a protective order that prohibits a person from engaging with another person. Restraining orders are most commonly used following an alleged domestic dispute...

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) A Stricter Standard for Commercial Drivers: In New Jersey, while the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for non-commercial drivers is 0.08%, commercial drivers face a stricter BAC limit of 0.04%. The rationale behind this stricter standard is the increased risk associated with larger vehicles and the professional responsibility commercial drivers hold. Penalties for a First Offense: A Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charge is taken very...