New Jersey Criminal Lawyers Blog

Matawan is a borough of about 9,000 residents in northwestern Monmouth County directly bordered by Aberdeen. It is directly accessible by Route 34, Route 79, County Route 516, the Garden State Parkway, and the New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast Line train. Because of its location, directly between the popular Jersey Shore and New York City, as summer approaches each year, Matawan experiences a substantial surge in activity. Whether vacationers are simply passing through Matawan on one of its many high speed roadways or frequenting one of its popular bars or restaurants, congestion both on the roads and elsewhere becomes increasingly noticeable during the summer months. Local law enforcement, wary of these growing crowds and wishing to preserve the quiet and peaceful nature of Matawan, which was recently ranked number twelve in the entire country by BusinessWeek in "Best Places to Raise your Children", issue an increasing number of disorderly persons charges, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI charges in Matawan.

Disorderly persons offenses refer to a broad category of offenses with some of the most commonly issued being disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C:33-15), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C:35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2). Being convicted of one of these charges can lead to penalties including jail time, significant monetary fines, and community service. Last year there were 137 disorderly persons offenses in Matawan.

Motor vehicle moving violations in Matawan are also frequently written by local law enforcement as congestion increases on the roads, and some of the more commonly charged violations are speeding, failure to stop, and reckless or careless driving. These charges carry with them penalties including significant monetary fines and the assessment of motor vehicle points to your driver's license which increases insurance premiums. Last year there were 1814 moving violations in Matawan.

Alcohol related drunk driving charges in Matawan carry extremely severe penalties and can have life long implications. A first time DWI, DUI, or Refusal conviction can result in the following penalties: loss of driver's license, jail time, significant monetary fines, the installation of an ignition interlock device into your vehicle, and completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center. There were 69 DWIs in Matawan last year.

Continue reading "Matawan Criminal Defense Attorney: Matawan Municipal Court" »

Hazlet is a township of about 21,000 residents in Monmouth County directly bordered by Union Beach, Keyport, Aberdeen, and Holmdel. It is directly accessible by Route 35, Route 36, the Garden State Parkway, and New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast line train. Because of its location, 37 miles south of New York City, 56 miles northeast of Philadelphia, and extremely close to the highly frequented beaches of the New Jersey shore, Hazlet is a busy township year round. As summer approaches, however, the hustle and bustle escalates to an increasingly higher level and the roads, restaurants, bars, and shops of Hazlet each face new challenges in dealing with these growing crowds. For local law enforcement, this population spike brings with it the possibility of trouble and, seeking to preserve the quiet and peaceful nature of the town, is normally combated through an increase in the amount of disorderly persons charges, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI charges.

Disorderly persons offenses refers to a broad category of offenses, with some of the more frequently charged being disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C:33-15), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C:35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2). Penalties for being convicted of such an offense include jail time, significant monetary fines, and community service. Last year there were 223 disorderly persons offenses in Hazlet.

Motor vehicle moving violations are very common in Hazlet and include traffic infractions such as speeding, failure to maintain lanes, failure to stop as well as much more serious alcohol related New Jersey drunk driving violations such as DWI, DUI, and Refusal. For a first time offender convicted of one of these drunk driving offenses, penalties may include monetary fines up to $500.00, loss of license for up to a year, jail time, enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, and the installation of an ignition interlock device system into their car. If the offense takes place within a school zone, regardless of the time of day, the penalties will be doubled. Last year there were 958 motor vehicle moving violations in Hazlet and 82 DWIs in Hazlet.

Continue reading "Hazlet Criminal Defense Attorney: Hazlet Municipal Court" »

Recently, Beach Haven Police Officers and State of New Jersey ABC investigators have been cracking down on underage drinkers frequenting local taverns. A new type of very convincing fake ID has surfaced in the various towns of Long Beach Island (LBI) and law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges are diligently arresting, prosecuting and sentencing individuals possessing these fake IDs. The new type of fake ID seems to be getting past some bar owners, bouncers, and bartenders who are relying on police officers to help them spot the fake IDs in LBI.

Beach Haven and all LBI police officers have written numerous charges this summer so far for possession of fake ID, misrepresentation of age to purchase alcohol and underage drinking. The charge most commonly written falls under the New Jersey Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) laws, a Title 33 offense. More specifically, Long Beach Island Police Officers are writing a N.J.S. 33:1-81 charge to violators. There are a host of offenses published under the statute and penalties can be quite harsh for a conviction. The Title 33 statute makes it a punishable offense to present false identification for the purposes of obtaining alcohol (N.J.S. 33:1-81c). Penalties for a conviction of the Title 33 offense are almost identical to the New Jersey disorderly persons statute of N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1: "Offenses involving false government documents." In fact, a provision in the Title 33 statute specifically states that all those convicted under it, "shall be deemed and adjudged to be a disorderly person." The penalties for a conviction include a mandatory fine of no less than $500.00 and mandatory suspension of your driver's license for 6 months.

In addition to the Fake ID charge, you could also face the disorderly persons offense of underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15). A conviction for underage drinking carries a mandatory $500.00 fine and if you are caught consuming that alcohol in a motor vehicle, you could be facing a 6-month driver's license suspension as well. If you are convicted of both the underage drinking offense and the Fake ID offense you are facing at least $1,000.00 in fines plus other court costs and a suspension of your drivers license for 6 months. Losing your license for 6 months can be quite inconvenient. You might be asking yourself how you can get back to college or how you will get to and from work. Quite simply, you will have to either rely on public transportation or others to drive you wherever you need to go.

Continue reading "DO NOT Plead Guilty to a Fake ID Charge on Long Beach Island: Beach Haven Municipal Court" »

On July 7th, following a two month long investigation, police officers in Brick, New Jersey made a motor vehicle stop at Route 88 and Younger Street which led to the seizure of 270 bags of heroin and more than $2,000.000 in cash. During the drug bust, police arrested three suspects who were charged with manufacturing, dispensing or distributing heroin, possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of Suboxone, and possession of methadone.

Being arrested and convicted of a drug offense in New Jersey, such as manufacturing, distribution, or possession, can lead to some very serious and long lasting consequences. The amount and type of drugs involved in the crime will determine whether an individual will be charged with a first, second, third or fourth degree crime, or a disorderly persons offense. Those arrested for first degree drug charges can face up to 20 years in prison, while lesser fourth degree and disorderly persons convictions can carry sentences ranging from 6 months in jail to 18 months in prison.

Where an individual is charged with manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing illegal drugs (N.J.S. 2C:35-5), law enforcement and the prosecutor will focus on the type and amount of drugs involved, the individual's level of involvement in the activity relevant to the charge, the evidence found by the police against the individual, the individual's criminal record, and where the charge occurred (e.g. in a school zone). Depending on each of these factors, the manufacturing charge can lead to anywhere from a first degree charge to a less severe fourth degree crime.

Being charged with possession of illegal drugs (N.J.S 2C: 35-10) can also lead to some very serious punishments. In New Jersey, it is illegal to knowingly or purposefully obtain or possess a controlled dangerous substance. Constructive possession is all that is required to satisfy possession in New Jersey, meaning that an individual need not have the illegal drugs on their person; simply having the drugs nearby in a place that they can easily access them, will suffice. For this reason, during a drug bust almost everyone in the room or vehicle where the drugs are found can be charged with possession, since each and every individual has constructive possession of the drugs being confiscated.

The charge of possession of drug paraphernalia (N.J.S 2C: 36-2) is frequently charged and refers to any equipment used to produce, conceal, or consume illegal drugs. Some of the more common drug paraphernalia found include rolling papers marked with marijuana residue, glass pipes with smoke stains, needles, bongs, roach clips, vials, plastic baggies, and syringes.

There are numerous defenses and mitigating circumstances that an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney may be able to uncover in reviewing the facts and circumstances of your drug charge.

Continue reading "Arrested for Illegal Drugs in Brick? Call An Experienced Brick Criminal Defense Attorney" »

Loch Arbour is a small village of 200 residents in Monmouth County bordered by Asbury Park, Allenhurst, and Interlaken. It is directly accessible by Ocean Avenue and close to both Route 71 and the New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast Line train. Even though Loch Arbour is an extremely small village, it experiences a significant increase in activity during the summer months, as vacationers travel to and from the many popular beaches of Loch Arbour's neighboring boroughs. This leads to increased traffic congestion on Loch Arbour's roads. Local law enforcement, wary of big crowds and the trouble they can sometimes bring, usually crack down during the summer months in a proactive effort to preserve the quiet and peaceful nature of the small village. This results in an increase in the number of disorderly person charges, motor vehicle violations, and DWI charges issued during the summer.

Disorderly persons offenses refer to a broad category of offenses with some of the more commonly issued being disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C:36-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), shoplifting (N.J.S. 2C: 20-11), possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), and many others. Being convicted of any of these charges can have serious consequences including hefty monetary fines, jail time, community service, probation and restitution. Last year in Loch Arbour Village there were 7 disorderly persons charges.

Motor vehicle moving violations are common in Loch Arbour, due to its proximity to so many popular beachfront towns. Last year alone, Loch Arbour witnessed 81 motor vehicle moving violations. Alcohol related drunk driving offenses, including DWI, DUI, and Refusal, are extremely serious charges with far reaching consequences. For a first time drunk driving offense in New Jersey, penalties can include loss of license for up to one year, up to 30 days in jail, monetary fines up to $500.00, other monetary fines and penalties, the installation of an ignition interlock device into one's vehicle, and the completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center. If convicted of subsequent offenses, the penalties become increasingly severe. If the New Jersey drunk driving offense takes place in a school zone, regardless of the time of day, the penalties will be doubled. It is also important to remember that restricted driver's licenses, which allow individuals who have had their licenses revoked or suspended to drive in limited capacities, are not issued in the State of New Jersey.

Continue reading "Loch Arbour Criminal Defense Attorney: Loch Arbour Village Municipal Court" »

Keyport is a borough of about 8,000 residents located in northeastern Monmouth County. It is bordered by Keansburg, Union Beach, Aberdeen and Hazlet and is accessible by Route 35, Route 36, and the Garden State Parkway. Being located on the Jersey Shore, Keyport normally experiences a great surge of activity as summer approaches and vacationers begin flocking towards the beach. While the beaches around Keyport do their fair share of drawing in crowds, other local attractions including Funtime America for the younger people, and watering holes such as McDonagh's Pub, Blue Rock Cafe, and Seven Days Bar and Grill for older crowds, also play a large role. As the summer crowds continue to grow, local law enforcement are given the task of making sure the peaceful and safe nature of Keyport is preserved and this is usually done through increasing the number of disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle violations, and DWI charges.

Disorderly persons offenses refer to a broad category of offenses with the most common being disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2), or trespassing (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3). Being convicted of one of these offenses can lead to significant monetary penalties, jail time, community service, and other serious penalties. Last year there were 126 disorderly persons offenses in Keyport.

Motor vehicle moving violations in Keyport are common and may refer to a number of different acts. Some of the most common motor vehicle violations in Keyport include speeding, failure to stop, failure to yield to a pedestrian, tailgating, and illegal turns. While these are often viewed as somewhat trivial offenses, penalties resulting from such may include the assessment of motor vehicle points leading to increased insurance premiums, significant monetary fines, loss of license and other penalties.

The more severe violations are those involving alcohol. When an individual is charged with a DWI, DUI, or Refusal, extremely severe consequences will follow a conviction. A first time offender faces repercussions including loss of license for up to a year, monetary fines up to $500.00, the installation of an ignition interlock device system into their vehicle, jail time, and enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program. Along with this, the individual will bear the stigma of having been convicted of such a serious offense, which may hinder their ability to secure employment throughout their lives. Last year, there were 765 moving violations in Keyport and 81 DWIs in Keyport.

Continue reading "Keyport Criminal Defense Attorney: Keyport Municipal Court" »

Interlaken is a small borough in eastern Monmouth County surrounded by Allenhurst, Deal, and Ocean Township. It has a population of about 900 and is close to both Route 35 and Route 71. As it is located on the Jersey Shore in direct proximity to such summer hot spots as Asbury Park and Bradley Beach, it comes as no surprise that Interlaken experiences a significant surge in population each year as the summer approaches and people begin to flock towards the water. This influx is evident not only through general congestion in the shops, restaurants, and bars of the shore, but also in the large amount of traffic in the streets. Typically, as the crowds and traffic become more and more significant, local law enforcement takes measures to make sure things don't get out of control. Normally this is done by increasing the number of disorderly persons charges, motor vehicle violations written, and DWI charges issued.

Disorderly persons offenses are quite common in Interlaken and include offenses such as disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), shoplifting (N.J.S. 2C: 20-11) and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2). These offenses can have serious repercussions including jail time, significant monetary fines, payment of restitution to the victim, probation and community service. Last year alone, Interlaken witnessed 10 disorderly persons offenses.

Moving violations are also common in Interlaken and include traffic infractions such as speeding, failure to maintain lanes, failure to stop as well as much more serious alcohol related drunk driving violations such as DWI, DUI, and Refusal. For a first time offender convicted of one of these New Jersey drunk driving related offenses, penalties may include monetary fines up to $500.00, loss of license for up to a year, jail time, enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, and the installation of an ignition interlock device system into their car. Last year there were 383 motor vehicle moving violations in Interlaken and 10 DWIs in Interlaken.

Continue reading "Interlaken Criminal Defense Attorney: Interlaken Municipal Court" »

Freehold Township is located in Monmouth County bordering Freehold Borough, Manalapan, Farmingdale, and Howell. Freehold Township has many major highways running through it including Route 33, Route 18, and Route 9. Freehold is densely populated with over 34,000 residents contained in 38.5 square miles. Residents enjoy harness racing at Freehold Raceway, shopping at Freehold Raceway Mall, and a host of other activities. Freehold Township is located close to Interstate 195 making it a popular place to stop for those traveling through New Jersey.

Freehold Township saw an estimated 295 disorderly persons offenses written in 2010. A disorderly persons offense is a general category of offenses that could be punishable by jail time, fines, community service, probation and payment of restitution. Some common disorderly persons offenses written in Freehold Township include: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2). Shoplifting (N.J.S. 2C:20-11) in Freehold Township is another disorderly persons offense frequently charged.

In addition to disorderly persons offenses, Freehold Township saw an estimated 4,745 motor vehicle violations as well as 98 drunk driving incidents recorded in 2010. A conviction for a motor vehicle offense can lead to fines, points assessed to your driver's license, and possible license suspension. Common motor vehicle violations in Freehold Township include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97).

Continue reading "Freehold Township Criminal Lawyer: Freehold Township Municipal Court" »

Englishtown is a small town in western Monmouth County, which is entirely surrounded by Manalapan Township. Comprised of just 0.6 square miles of land and just 1,900 year-round residents, Englishtown might be small, but it has a very vibrant and historical downtown that attracts residents from within the town as well as from outside. Home of the Englishtown Auction and the Englishtown Raceway, Englishtown offers plenty of activities for its residents. County Routes 522 and 527 intersect near the middle of town to provide adequate transportation.

Though Englishtown is small in size, it has seen its fair share of police activity. In 2010, there were an estimated 61 disorderly persons charges written in Englishtown. Some common disorderly persons offenses may include: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2). If convicted of a disorderly persons offense in Englishtown an individual can face jail-time, fines, community service, and possibly payments of restitution for any damage caused.

In addition to disorderly persons charges, Englishtown saw an estimated 590 motor vehicle violations including: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97). Englishtown also saw its fair share of drunk driving incidents in 2010 with an estimated 51 charges written. DWI, DUI, and refusal charges are very serious and a conviction can lead to jail-time, heavy fines, loss of license, participation in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center Program, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device both during and after the period of license suspension.

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Fair Haven is a borough located in northern Monmouth County bordered by Rumson, Little Silver, Middletown, Red Bank, and Shrewsbury. It is accessible through Route 35 and has a population of about 6,000. Located directly on the Navesink River, Fair Haven's residents and visitors from nearby towns enjoy such activities as fishing, boating, and rowing throughout the warmer months and frequent the small borough's many fine restaurants, including Nauvoo Grill Club, year round. Not surprisingly, as summer approaches, Fair Haven becomes increasingly busy. This hustle and bustle is not always viewed as a good thing, however, and local law enforcement officers take it upon themselves to make sure the swelling crowds and voluminous traffic do not bring with them increased disturbances to the quiet and peaceful nature of Fair Haven. This crackdown results in an increased number of disorderly persons charges, moving violations, and DWI charges.

Disorderly persons offenses refer to a broad category of offenses which include, but are not limited to, disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C:33-15), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C:35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2). Being convicted of one of these offenses can have serious consequences including jail time, significant monetary fines, enrollment into community service programs, and other penalties. Last year alone, Fair Haven witnessed 36 disorderly persons offenses.

Motor vehicle moving violations are common in Fair Haven and refer to a number of different driving offenses. Some of the most common lesser infractions include speeding, failure to stop, failure to yield to a pedestrian, tailgating, and illegal turns. While these are often viewed as somewhat trivial offenses, penalties resulting from such motor vehicle violations in Fair Haven may include the assessment of motor vehicle points leading to increased insurance premiums, significant monetary fines, loss of license and other penalties.

The more severe drunk driving violations are DWI, DUI and Refusal in New Jersey. When an individual is charged with a DWI, DUI, or Refusal, extremely severe consequences will follow a conviction. A first time offender faces repercussions including loss of license for up to a year, monetary fines up to $500.00, the installation of an ignition interlock device system into their vehicle, jail time, and enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program. Along with this, the individual will bear the stigma of having been convicted of such a serious offense, which may hinder their ability to secure employment throughout their lives. Last year, Fair Haven witnessed 340 moving violations and 21 DWIs.

Continue reading "Fair Haven Criminal Defense Attorney: Fair Haven Municipal Court" »

Deal is a small beachfront borough in Monmouth County surrounded by Allenhurst, Long Branch, and Ocean Township. It is directly accessible by both Ocean Avenue and Route 71, and has a population of about 1,000 full time residents. Being such a small community with such beautiful beaches, Deal normally experiences a sizable increase in activity during the summer months as vacationers and residents of nearby towns visit with hopes of spending a long lazy day at the beach. This is most noticeably reflected in the heightened traffic along Ocean Avenue and the general congestion at and around the beach. Being the small and somewhat secluded community that it is, Deal residents are used to a quiet and peaceful environment so when the summer rush starts, local law enforcement, striving to maintain this quality of life, issue a heightened number of disorderly persons charges, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI charges.

Disorderly persons offenses refer to a general category of offenses with some of the more popular being disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C:33-15), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C:35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2). Punishments resulting from a disorderly persons charge may include significant monetary fines, jail time, probation, payment of restitution and community service. Last year alone, Deal witnessed 53 disorderly persons charges.

Moving violations are much more common in Deal, as last year 1,268 moving violations were charged, including 60 DWIs. Motor vehicle violations refer to a broad category of offenses with some of the most commonly written being speeding, driving with a suspended license, leaving the scene of an accident, driving without insurance, or failure to stop. Being convicted of one of these charges can lead to the assessment of motor vehicle points leading to increased insurance premiums, significant monetary fines, jail time, and loss of license. Being convicted of an alcohol related drunk driving charge such as DWI, DUI, or Refusal can have even more severe repercussions including, for a first time offender, loss of license for up to a year, significant monetary fines over $500.00, jail time, enrollment in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, and the installation of an ignition interlock device into their vehicle. Where the offense occurs within a school zone, regardless of whether or not school is in session, the penalties will be doubled.

Continue reading "Deal Criminal Defense Attorney: Deal Municipal Court" »

Avon by the Sea is a small beachfront borough in Monmouth County comprised of about 2,000 people and directly bordered by each Belmar, Neptune, and Bradley Beach. It is accessible through Route 71 and Ocean Avenue. Because Avon by the Sea is such a beach oriented borough and because it is surrounded by so many similar communities, as the summer rolls around each year, traffic and general congestion begin to rapidly increase. This huge population spike during summer brings Avon by the Sea's population of 2,000 all the way up to 10,000 on average. Along with this population spike, and increasingly problematic traffic, comes a crackdown by local law enforcement, striving to maintain the peace and quiet that Avon by the Sea residents have grown accustomed to throughout the year. This crackdown is usually effectuated through an increased number of disorderly persons charges, traffic violations, and DWIs.

Disorderly persons offenses refer to a broad category of offenses with some of the more popularly issued being disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C:33-15), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C:35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2). Penalties resulting from a disorderly persons conviction can be very serious and my include significant monetary fines, jail time, enrollment into community service programs, and other repercussions. Last year, Avon by the Sea witnessed 9 disorderly persons charges.

Traffic violations are much more common in Avon by the Sea with some of the most popular being tailgating, driving without insurance, failure to stop, and careless or reckless driving. Penalties resulting from such traffic violations may include the assessment of motor vehicle points leading to increased insurance premiums, and monetary fines. Being convicted of an alcohol related drunk driving charge can lead to much harsher penalties with much more long last effects. A first time offender for DWI, DUI, or Refusal will face penalties including loss of license for up to a year, monetary fines approaching $500.00, jail time, enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device system into their vehicle. Along with these serious penalties, the individual bears the stigma of having been convicted of such a serious offense. Last year Avon by the Sea witnessed 194 traffic infractions and 11 DWIs.

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Allentown is a very small borough in southwestern Monmouth County completely surrounded by Upper Freehold Township. Even though its population hovers right around 2,000 and it's only .6 square miles in area, Allentown receives a fair amount of traffic from nearby Interstate 195 and the New Jersey Turnpike due to its strategic location just 40 minutes northeast of Philadelphia and 50 minutes southwest of Manhattan. Because of its location, as summer approaches and more people begin to hit the roads, congestion around Allentown becomes increasingly problematic. To insure that Allentown retains its peaceful small town atmosphere, local law enforcement typically face this increased amount of summer traffic by raising the number of disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI charges handed out.

Disorderly persons offenses refer to a general category of offenses which include disorderly conduct, trespass, simple assault, resisting arrest, underage drinking, and possession or use of a fake ID. If convicted, these charges can lead to jail time, heavy monetary fines, community service, probation and payment of restitution. Last year in Allentown, there were 4 such disorderly persons offenses.

Motor vehicle moving violations are much more frequent in Allentown, as last year the small borough witnessed 905 such offenses. As the population of Allentown is only comprised of 2,000 people, it is quite clear that the majority of offenders are people traveling through the small borough. Some of the most common moving violations are speeding, reckless or careless driving, tailgating, failure to stop, and many others. Penalties for such offenses can include significant monetary fines, the assessment of motor vehicle points on your driver's license leading to increased insurance premiums and suspension of your driver's license for accumulating over 12 points in less than two (2) years. If convicted of an alcohol related drunk driving offense, such as DWI, DUI, or Refusal, the penalties become increasingly severe. A first time offender convicted of one of these charges may face loss of their license for up to a year, monetary fines approaching $500.00, jail time, the installation of an ignition interlock device into their vehicle, and enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program. It must also be noted that restricted licenses, which would allow an individual to use their vehicle in limited capacities, are not issued in the State of New Jersey.

Continue reading "Allentown Criminal Defense Lawyer (NJ): Allentown Municipal Court" »

Allenhurst is a very small borough in Monmouth County bordering Deal, Asbury Park, and Loch Arbour. With a population of only about 500 and only directly accessible through Route 71 and the New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast line train, Allenhurst has large numbers of vacationers visiting during the summer months and keeps its well manicured beach and small town center in top shape for the seasonal travelers. Because of its well kept beach and close proximity to other beachfront communities, Allenhurst normally sees an influx of traffic during the summer months. Local law enforcement, desiring to preserve the peace in this small borough, normally combats these large and sometimes loud summer crowds by issuing an increased number of disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI, DUI, and Refusal charges.

Last year in Allenhurst, there were 43 disorderly persons offenses. Disorderly persons offenses refer to a very broad category of offenses which include disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C:33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C:35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2). If convicted of such an offense, penalties may include significant monetary fines, jail time, enrollment into a community service program, loss of license, and payment of restitution, if necessary.

Motor vehicle moving violations are also frequently handed out in Allenhurst, as last year the small borough witnessed 731 such violations and 49 DWIs. For such a small borough, this is a pretty large number and is representative of the great volume of traffic that passes through Allenhurst on a daily basis. While moving violations such as speeding, reckless, careless or unsafe driving, and tailgating are sometimes viewed as trivial, penalties for one of these offenses can include significant monetary fines, points assessed to your driver's license and possible license suspension with the accumulation of points. Alcohol related drunk driving charges carry with them even more excessive punishments which have extremely long lasting effects. An individual convicted of a DWI could face penalties including loss of license, significant monetary fines, jail time, the enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, the installation of an ignition interlock device system into their car, and the lifelong stigma of having been convicted of such a serious offense.

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Ocean Township is a quiet waterfront community located in southern Ocean County. According to recent census data, Ocean Township contains just over 8,000 residents on 32 square miles dotted with various bodies of water. Ocean Township is easily accessible to motorists traveling along Route 9, Route 532, and portions of the Garden State Parkway. Residents often refer to the town as Waretown, which is a prominent and heavy populated section of Ocean Township. In fact, there have been numerous attempts to change the towns name to Waretown so as to avoid confusing Ocean Township with the town of the same name in Monmouth County.

Ocean Township saw an estimated 120 disorderly persons offenses written in 2010. A conviction for a disorderly persons offense in Ocean Township can lead to severe penalties such as jail-time, fines, community service, and payments of restitution. Commonly written disorderly persons offenses include but are not limited to:disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

In addition to disorderly persons offenses, Ocean Township saw 928 motor vehicle violations and 85 DWI, DUI, and refusal offenses in 2010. Penalties for drunk driving can be quite serious and include jail-time, fines, loss of license, completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device. Motor vehicle violations, while not as serious, can still have significant penalties including fines, points assessed to your driver's license, and license suspensions. Some commonly written motor vehicle violations in Ocean Township include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97).

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Spring Lake Heights is a borough in Monmouth County with a population right around 5,000. It is easily accessible through both Route 35 and Route 71 and was recently named the 28th best place to live in New Jersey by New Jersey Monthly. A stone's throw from the beaches of neighboring Spring Lake, Belmar, and Sea Girt, Spring Lake Heights affords its residents and vacationers with a beach atmosphere while also providing peace and quiet. Because of its proximity to so many enticing summer hot spots, Spring Lake Heights normally sees a substantial increase in population during the summer months. The Spring Lake Heights law enforcement, seeking to maintain order and control during this seasonal surge, does so by increasing the number of disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI, DUI, and Refusal charges.

Disorderly persons offenses refer to a broad category of offenses and include disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), harassment (N.J.S. 2C: 33-4), drug offenses (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), and trespassing (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3). If convicted of one of these charges, an individual may face substantial penalties including significant monetary fines, jail time, payment of restitution, community service, and permanent marks on your criminal record. Last year in Spring Lake Heights, there were 35 disorderly persons offenses.

Moving violations in Spring Lake Heights are also frequently written by local law enforcement as congestion increases on the roads, and some of the more commonly charged violations are speeding, failure to stop, and reckless or careless driving. These charges often carry with them penalties including significant monetary fines and the assessment of motor vehicle points to your driver's license which increases insurance premiums. Last year in Spring Lake Heights, there were 374 moving violations.

Alcohol related drunk driving charges in Spring Lake Heights carry extremely severe penalties and can have life long implications. A first time DWI, DUI, or Refusal conviction can result in the following penalties: loss of driver's license, jail time, significant monetary fines, the installation of an ignition interlock device system into your vehicle, and completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center. Spring Lake Heights witnessed 43 DWIs last year.

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Tinton Falls is a borough in Monmouth County with a population of about 15,000. It is bordered directly by Wall, Neptune, Ocean, Colts Neck, and Eatontown and is directly accessible by Route 18, Route 33, Route 35, Route 36, Route 66 and the Garden State Parkway. Along with housing Twin Brooks Golf Center, a public 9 hole golf course which also contains 18 holes of miniature golf and a driving range, Tinton Falls is well known for being the home of the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, an outdoor shopping mall with 120 stores including everything from Burberry to a Brooks Brothers Factory Store.

Tinton Falls relies heavily on business from its many commercial areas, including the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets. Tinton Falls has an abundance of high speed roads crisscrossing its boundaries, bringing thousands of people in and out of its borders every day. This large influx of traffic has led to a heightened standard of vigilance by local law enforcement, as they strive to preserve the peace and quiet that Tinton Fall residents are accustomed to. As a result, disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI, DUI, and Refusal charges in Tinton Falls have been increased.

Disorderly persons offenses are quite common in Tinton Falls and include offenses such as disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), shoplifting (N.J.S. 2C: 20-11) and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2). These offenses can have serious repercussions including jail time, significant monetary fines, payment of restitution to the victim, and community service. Last year alone, Tinton Falls witnessed 159 disorderly persons offenses.

Moving violations are extremely common in Tinton Falls and include anything from speeding, failure to stop, and careless driving. The alcohol related drunk driving charges of DWI, DUI, and Refusal are also frequently written in Tinton Falls. Last year alone, Tinton Falls witnessed 3,425 moving violations and 137 DWIs. Being convicted of a DWI in Tinton Falls can have extremely severe and long lasting implications. For a first time offender convicted of a DWI, the penalties may include loss of license for up to a year, monetary fines approaching $500, jail time, the mandatory enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, and the installation of an ignition interlock device into your vehicle.

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Aberdeen is a township of about 17,000 residents located in northern Monmouth County. It is bordered by Keyport, Matawan, Hazlet, and Middletown and directly accessible by the Garden State Parkway, Route 35, and on the New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast Line train. Up until the 1960s, Aberdeen was an extremely popular tourist destination, boasting a beautiful boardwalk and a large number of shops catering to out of town visitors. After Hurricane Donna destroyed much of Aberdeen's beautiful beachfront land, Aberdeen rebuilt and today is once again heavily visited. Because of its proximity to the beach and the many convenient options it affords to those wishing to travel north into New York City, Aberdeen faces a large increase in traffic activity during the summer months. Seeking to maintain the peaceful and quiet nature of the township, local law enforcement in Aberdeen typically meets this growing summer crowd with a heightened sense of security, writing an increased number of disorderly persons offenses, moving violations, and DWI, DUI, and Refusal charges.

Last year alone, Aberdeen witnessed 43 disorderly persons offenses. Some of the more common disorderly persons offenses include disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2), and trespassing (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3). If convicted, a person may face severe repercussions including jail time, large monetary fines, participation in community service, probation, payment of restitution, and other penalties.

Motor vehicle moving violations are also quite often written in Aberdeen, as last year the township witnessed 1,814 moving violations. Additionally, 69 DWIs were written in Aberdeen in 2010. Moving violations include offenses such as speeding, failure to stop, and careless and reckless driving. Penalties for such offenses can include the assessment of motor vehicle points on your driver's license leading to increased insurance premiums, and significant monetary fines. Alcohol related drunk driving violations, such as DWIs, carry increasingly severe penalties and first time offenders can face loss of their driver's license for up to a year, fines over $500, jail time, completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, and the installation of an ignition interlock device into their vehicle. Where the offense has occurred in a school zone, regardless of whether or not school is in session, the penalties will be doubled.

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Ocean Gate is a small waterfront community in Ocean County located at the intersection of the Toms River and the Barnegat Bay. Although Ocean Gate is small in size with just 0.4 square miles of land, it has a rather dense population of over 2,000 year round residents. Boating, fishing, and sailing are very popular activities in town due to Ocean Gate's prime location along the river and the bay. Ocean Gate is easily accessible by Route 9, Route 37, and the Garden State Parkway.

Ocean Gate Police Officers wrote an estimated 30 disorderly persons offenses in 2010 alone. A disorderly persons offense is a general category of offenses that may carry significant fines, jail-time, probation, payment of restitution, and possibly community service. Some commonly written disorderly persons offenses in Ocean Gate are: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

In addition to disorderly persons offenses, Ocean Gate saw an estimated 172 motor vehicle violations and 23 DWI, DUI, and refusal offenses written in 2010. Drunk driving or driving while intoxicated convictions can carry life altering penalties such as fines, loss of license, jail-time, completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device in an individual's automobile. While less serious, motor vehicle violations can carry tough penalties such as fines, license suspension and points assessed to one's driver's license. Some commonly written motor vehicle violations in Ocean Gate include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97).

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Spring Lake is a beachfront borough in Monmouth County which has a population hovering right around 3,500 throughout the year. It is easily accessible through both Route 71 and Ocean Avenue and due to its beach oriented nature, normally sees a substantial increase in activity during summer months. Along with having the longest non-commercial boardwalk in the entire State of New Jersey, Spring Lake is also known for its more than 2 miles of beachfront land, its wide variety of gourmet restaurants, and its numerous bed and breakfasts which vacationers can enjoy after long days of browsing through Spring Lake's large number of specialty shops and boutiques. Being the small and quiet borough that it is, when faced with the sudden population influx that summer brings with it, Spring Lake law enforcement is dedicated to the task of maintaining order and calm.

As a means of controlling the swelling crowds and increased traffic congestion, Spring Lake law enforcement typically increases the number of disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI, DUI, and Refusal charges handed out during the summer. Disorderly persons offenses include disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2), or trespassing (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3). Being convicted of one of these offenses can result in very serious consequences including monetary fines, jail time, community service, and the long lasting stigma of having been arrested and found guilty of such an offense. Last year alone, Spring Lake witnessed 21 disorderly persons offenses.

Moving violations in Spring Lake are also quite commonly increased during the summer months and some of the more popularly charged offenses are speeding, driving with a suspended license, and failure to observe traffic lanes. While these may seem like rather minor offenses, penalties can include the assessment of motor vehicle points to your driver's license, increased insurance premiums, significant monetary fines, loss of license, and jail time. Alcohol related drunk driving violations such as DWI, DUI, and Refusal can carry much more extreme penalties than moving violation charges. Along with paying substantial monetary fines over $500.00 and loss of your driver's license, a first time offender of one of these drunk driving related charges may face enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, jail time, and the installation of an ignition interlock device into their car. Last year Spring Lake witnessed 139 moving violations and 10 DWIs.

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Little Silver is a borough of about 6,000 in Monmouth County well known for its peaceful small town atmosphere and convenient proximity to both the beautiful beaches of the New Jersey shore area and the hustle and bustle of nearby Manhattan. Little Silver is bordered directly by each Shrewsbury, Red Bank, Fair Haven, Rumson, and Oceanport, and is accessible through Route 35, Rumson Road, and the New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast line, which travels from Little Silver to New York City frequently throughout the day. Because of its location, Little Silver is very often seen as an agreeable option for those wishing to spend time on the beach during the summer without dealing with the burdensome problems associated with living in a beachfront town.

Little Silver normally experiences a substantial population boom during summer months. This spike attracts the attention of local law enforcement who make it their goal to insure the safe and quiet nature of the town is preserved throughout the summer and do so through handing out an increased number of disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI, DUI, and Refusal charges.

The most common disorderly persons offenses are disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2), or trespassing (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3). Being convicted of one of these offenses can lead to significant monetary penalties, jail time, community service, and other serious penalties. Last year Little Silver witnessed 23 disorderly persons offenses in total.

Moving violations are also quite commonly increased during the summer months and some of the more popularly charged offenses are failure to stop, failure to observe traffic signals, and failure to observe traffic lanes. While these may seem like rather minor offenses, penalties can include the assessment of motor vehicle points on your driver's license, increased insurance premiums, significant monetary fines, loss of license, and jail time. More serious drunk driving alcohol related violations such as DWI, DUI, and Refusal can carry much more extreme penalties. Last year alone, Little Silver witnessed 310 moving violations and 5 DWIs.

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Plumsted Township is located in western Ocean County and borders Jackson Township, Manchester, and North Hanover. Although Plumsted spans over 40 square miles, it has a relatively low population of just over 8,000 year-round residents. Routes 537 and 539 run through Plumsted and the prominent section of New Egypt. Motorists driving through Plumsted will see a quaint little downtown in New Egypt as well as vast farmland growing anything from corn to pumpkins in the fall.

Although sparsely populated, Plumsted saw an estimated 42 disorderly persons offenses in 2010. Disorderly persons offenses are a general category of offenses that could carry serious fines, jail-time, and community service. Some commonly written disorderly persons offenses can include but are not limited to: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

In addition to disorderly persons offenses, Plumsted saw an estimated 308 motor vehicle violations and 33 DWI, DUI, and refusal charges written in 2010. Motor vehicle violations can carry fines, points assessed to your driver's license, and license suspensions if a conviction is sustained. Some commonly written motor vehicle violations include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97).

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Sea Girt is a small waterside borough in Monmouth County with a population hovering right around two thousand. It is accessible through both Route 35 and Route 71 and is well known for its beautifully kept sandy white beaches and well maintained boardwalk. Summertime recreation offered in Sea Girt includes boating, kayaking, and a number of beach orientated activities. Sea Girt also boasts a nice selection of restaurants and pubs, including Fratello's, Harrigan's Pub, Rod's Olde Irish Tavern and The Parker House.

Not surprisingly, Sea Girt's population drastically increases as the warm weather approaches and vacationers flock towards the beautifully kept beaches and boardwalk. Along with this predictable yearly population spike comes a crackdown by local law enforcement wishing to maintain the peaceful small town atmosphere that Sea Girt is so well known for. This crackdown normally results in an increased number of disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle moving violations, and DUI, DWI, and Refusal charges. Last year alone, Sea Girt witnessed 41 disorderly persons offenses, with some of the most common being disorderly conduct (N.J.S 2C: 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C:21-2.1), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 35:10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2). If convicted of one of these offenses, punishments can range anywhere from severe monetary fines to jail time or participation in community service.

Moving violations including traffic violations, failure to maintain lanes, failure to yield to a pedestrian etc., are not normally viewed by offenders as major offenses. However, being convicted of one of these seemingly trivial charges can lead to the assessment of motor vehicle points on your driver's license, increases to insurance costs, monetary fines, the suspension of one's license, and even jail time.

Being convicted of an alcohol related drunk driving violation such as DWI, DUI, or Refusal will result in even more severe punishments. First time offenders are likely to face monetary fines approaching $500.00, other significant monetary fines, loss of license for up to a year, jail time, detainment, enrollment into an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, and the installation of an ignition interlock device into their vehicle. Last year alone, Sea Girt witnessed 197 moving violations and 33 DWIs.

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South Toms River is a small township just south of the much larger Toms River Township. South Toms River is comprised of just 1.2 square miles and just 3,700 residents. Although small, South Toms River boasts numerous recreational activities, a day camp, and many thriving businesses along Dover Road. Route 9, Route 166, the Garden State Parkway, and Route 30 all provide access to South Toms River.

Largely due to the population density, South Toms River saw an estimated 31 disorderly persons offenses in 2010 alone. A disorderly persons offense is a generally category of offenses that could result in fines, community service, jail-time, and possible restitution payments if convicted. Some commonly written disorderly persons offenses include: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

In addition to disorderly persons offenses, South Toms River saw an estimated 369 motor vehicle violations and 22 DWI, DUI, and refusal violations written in 2010. Drunk driving and driving while intoxicated convictions may result in jail-time, heavy fines, loss of license, completion of an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center Program, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device. Somewhat less serious are motor vehicle violations, which may result in fines, points, and license suspension. Commonly written motor vehicle violations include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97).

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Marlboro Township is a medium sized township in northwestern Monmouth County spanning just over 30 square miles. Recent census data indicates that Marlboro is home to just over 40,000 residents and was recently ranked in the top 100 best places to live by CNN and Money Magazine. Marlboro Township provides residents refuge from urban sprawl while still being an easy commute to both New York City and various beach towns located along the Atlantic Ocean in New Jersey. The main roads used for travel through Marlboro are Route 9, Route 18, Route 520, and Route 79. Marlboro boasts a strong municipal park system and hosts many activities geared towards the interests of its residents. Among the activities are outdoor summer concerts, festivals, sports leagues, and fossil hunting.

In 2010, Marlboro Township Police Officers wrote an estimated 214 disorderly persons offenses. A disorderly persons offense is a general category of offenses sitting below New Jersey indictable criminal offenses. While not criminal, a conviction for a disorderly persons charge can carry fines, jail-time, community service, and possible restitution payments. Some commonly written disorderly persons offenses include:
disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

In addition to disorderly persons offenses, Marlboro Police Officers wrote an estimated 1517 motor vehicle violations and 76 DWI, DUI, and refusal charges in 2010. Drunk driving and driving while under the influence charges are serious and if convicted, an individual can face jail-time, loss of license, heavy fines, participation in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center Program, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device. While less serious, motor vehicle violations can still carry penalties of suspended license, fines, and points assessed to your driver's license. Some commonly written motor vehicle violations include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97).

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Manalapan Township is a medium sized town in western Monmouth County comprised of 30 square miles of land. The latest census data notates a population of nearly 40,000 year-round residents. Manalapan Township can be accessed by Route 9 and Route 33 as well as County Routes 522, 527, and 537. Manalapan residents enjoy a rich history due to the fact that historic Monmouth Battlefield lies within its borders along with numerous other landmarks. Located just 45 miles away from New York City and 15 minutes from the shore, Manalapan provides a great suburban landscape that provides easy access to many surrounding towns and the hustle and bustle of New York City.

Due to Manalapan's location, it does see its share of disorderly persons offenses. In fact, Manalapan Police Officers wrote 91 disorderly persons offenses in 2010. A disorderly persons offense is a general category of offenses that can result in fines, jail-time, community service, and in certain circumstances payments of restitution. Some commonly written disorderly persons offenses include: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

In addition to disorderly persons offenses, Manalapan saw 1582 motor vehicle violations written in 2010 as well as 54 DWI, DUI, and refusal offenses. A conviction for a motor vehicle violation can result in fines, points, and in some cases license suspension. Commonly written motor vehicle offenses include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97). Drunk driving and driving while intoxicated related charges can carry severe penalties including loss of license, heavy fines, jail-time, participation in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, and at the courts discretion, the installation of an ignition interlock device.

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Rumson Borough is a small riverfront community located in northern Monmouth County just across the Navesink River from Middletown and the Atlantic Highlands. Census data indicates that Rumson is contained on just 7.2 square miles of land containing just over 7,000 year-round residents. Due to Rumson's close proximity to the high-speed ferry servicing the Atlantic Highlands, residents often travel to New York City for work and leisure. Rumson offers people many fine dining and shopping opportunities. Rumson is accessible by Rumson Road and River Road.

Though small and quaint, Rumson does see its fare share of disorderly persons offenses. In fact, Rumson Borough Police Officers wrote an estimated 21 disorderly persons offenses in 2010. If convicted of a disorderly persons offense, an individual can face fines, jail-time, community service, and possibly payments of restitution. Some commonly written disorderly persons offenses in Rumson are: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

In 2010, Rumson saw an estimated 301 motor vehicle violations written as well as 18 DWI, DUI, and refusal charges. Motor vehicle violations can result in fines, points assessed to your driver's license, and license suspensions. Commonly written motor vehicle charges in Rumson include but are not limited to: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97). While not criminal offenses, drunk driving and driving while intoxicated charges are quite serious and can lead to strict penalties such as loss of license, jail-time, heavy fines, completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device.

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Sea Bright Borough is a small beachfront community comprised of just 1 square mile in northern Monmouth County. With just over 1,800 residents, Sea Bright has 7 private, member only beach clubs and 1 large municipal beach in the center of town. Shrewsbury, Highlands, and Sandy Hook are all close by and provide additional shops and restaurants for residents and visitors. Nearly surrounded by water, Sea Bright is a beautiful place to visit and often attracts summer renters. Sea Bright sees quite a bit of traffic during the summer due to its placement along busy Route 36. Donovan's Reef and the Mad Hatter are two very popular nighttime hotspots in Sea Bright and can get quite crowded during the busy summer months.

Despite its size, Sea Bright Borough Police Officers wrote an estimated 106 disorderly persons offenses in 2010. A disorderly persons offense is written to deter certain undesirable behavior and a conviction can carry fines, jail-time, and in some cases, community service. Commonly written disorderly persons charges in Sea Bright include: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

Mainly due to its position along Route 36, Sea Bright saw an estimated 510 motor vehicle violations in 2010. A conviction for a motor vehicle violation in Sea Bright can include fines, license suspension, and points assessed to your driver's license by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Common motor vehicle violations can include:
speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97). In addition to motor vehicle violations, Sea Bright saw an estimated 144 DWI, DUI, and refusal charges in 2010. A drunk driving conviction can be serious and can lead to fines, loss of license, jail-time, participation in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device in your motor vehicle.

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Now that summer is in full swing and the new school year is fast approaching, house parties with large crowds of young adults seem to be a common occurrence. If the party produces a lot of noise so as to distract and disrupt the neighbors from the quiet enjoyment of their own property, the police will inevitably be called to respond to a noise ordinance complaint. The officer's actions during the response call must be put under scrutiny as he/she could have violated 4th Amendment rights protecting against illegal search and seizure.

Recently, in the New Jersey Appellate Division case of State v. Kaltner, a group of Monmouth University students all living together in an off campus house in Long Branch (not affiliated with the University) decided to throw a party. The party became loud enough to disturb the neighbors who responded by calling the Long Branch Police. Once the police arrived and knocked at the door, a partygoer opened the door and invited them to step in. Once inside, Long Branch Police Officers began searching for the residents of the home so that they could instruct them to keep the noise level down. The officers split up and scattered throughout the house. One officer in particular ventured upstairs and began looking around. The lone officer testified that while upstairs he noticed a controlled dangerous substance that he recognized from his training as well as other drug paraphernalia. The officer confiscated the drugs and arrested the individual who owned them. At trial, the judge opined that the search performed by the Long Branch Police Officer was in fact violative of the 4th Amendment's protection against illegal search and seizure thus not allowing the evidence collected as a result of that search to be admitted at trial.

On appeal, the three-judge Appellate Panel agreed and affirmed the lower court ruling with clear deference to the 4th Amendment. Because the Long Branch Police Officers were invited inside the house, the question or issue that the Appellate Division needed to decide was whether or not the Police acted lawfully in fanning out to find the people within the house that were responsible for throwing the party which is how the illegal drugs were discovered.

A number of arguments were raised by the State. In particular, a general "community caretaking" argument posed an interesting debate in the case. The Appellate Division judges deduced that this case turned on whether "the objective reasonableness of the police action in executing their service function" was satisfied. The court ruled that fanning out to find the people responsible for the party was not objectively reasonable because there was no need to do so. There were numerous partygoers that could have sought the responsible party for the officers along with a number of other approaches. The goal of the police visit was to abate the nuisance, not to search the house for the homeowner. Given those circumstances, the judges ruled that the search was unlawful. In a clear manner calculated to avoid a brightline rule, the Court limited its opinion to the case at hand claiming that each search and seizure case must be decided on a case-by-case basis to determine if the police were in fact objectively reasonable.

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Keansburg is a borough of about 11,000 located in northern Monmouth County, surrounded by Aberdeen, Middletown, Union Beach, and Keyport. It is directly accessible through Route 36 and boasts a number of popular summer family attractions including Keansburg Amusement Park, Runaway Rapids Water Park, and a beautiful beach with a gorgeous view of the Manhattan skyline. Along with these enticing destinations, Keansburg also offers a vibrant bar and live music scene to the older crowds, and Applejack Bar, Chasers, and Big Shots each attract substantial crowds throughout the year.

Because of its popular beach, amusement park, water park, and other summer attractions, Keansburg's population faces a sharp spike as the warm weather begins to approach. This population increase leads to increased traffic, congestion along the beach, and for local law enforcement, the challenge of maintaining control and order over a growing mass of people.

Typically, as crowds grow, so do the number of disorderly persons charges, motor vehicle moving violations, and drunk driving charges including DWI, DUI, and Refusal. Last year alone, Keansburg witnessed 1,096 moving violations, and 32 DWIs. Moving violations include such infractions as speeding, failure to stop, tailgating and many others. Even though they are often viewed as seemingly minor, they can lead to penalties including significant monetary fines, assessment of motor vehicle points, and loss of license.

Alcohol related violations, such as DWI, DUI, and Refusal can lead to much more serious consequences including much heavier monetary fines, jail time, detainment, loss of license, the installation of an ignition interlock device into one's vehicle, and the lifelong stigma of having been convicted of such a serious offense.

Disorderly persons offenses in Keansburg are also given out quite frequently during the summer months and include such offenses as disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 2C: 29-2), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), drug offenses (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 21-2.1), and criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3). Last year alone, 438 disorderly persons offenses were handed out in Keansburg.

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Berkeley Township is a large municipality nestled along the Barnegat Bay and extending into the Pine Barrens in Ocean County. Easily accessible by Route 9 and the Garden State Parkway, Berkeley Township boasts a population of almost 42,000 across its 55 square mile landscape. Berkeley Township neighbors Pine Beach, Beachwood, South Toms River, Toms River, Lacey, and Manchester. Berkeley Township offers many outdoor activities such as boating and sailing as well as beaches and parks to relax for the day.

Berkeley Township sees its share of disorderly persons offenses. In 2010 alone over 140 disorderly persons offenses were written by Berkeley Township Police Officers. A disorderly persons offense is a general category of offenses that could result in fines, jail-time, community service, and possibly payments of restitution. Commonly written disorderly persons offenses include: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C: 33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2).

In addition to disorderly persons offenses, Berkeley Township saw an estimated 80 DWI, DUI, and refusal charges written in 2010. A conviction for drunk driving or driving while intoxicated can be serious and lead to fines, penalties, IDRC requirements, jail-time, loss of license, and possibly the installation of an ignition interlock device. Less serious but often written motor vehicle violations were also heavily present in Berkeley in 2010 with 1,113 charges. Commonly written motor vehicle violations include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97).

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Mantoloking is a small beachfront community in Ocean County comprised of just 0.7 square miles. Mantoloking's year-round population is just around 200 people, which dramatically expands to almost 5,000 during the summer. Home to many New England style homes, Mantoloking is considered to be one of the richest municipalities in New Jersey. Situated just south of Bay Head, Mantoloking lies along the Route 35 corridor with access to Brick Township via the Mantoloking Bridge. Many residents and renters enjoy the convenience of being nearly halfway between Point Pleasant Beach and Seaside Heights during the summer months. Due to its central location, Mantoloking sees its fare share of criminal, disorderly persons, and motor vehicle violations.

In 2010, Mantoloking saw a number of disorderly persons charges written by police officers. A disorderly persons offense is a general category of offenses that are often written to control, arrest, and deter certain behavior. If convicted of a disorderly persons offense an individual could face jail-time, fines, community service, and possible payments of restitution. Some common disorderly persons offenses written in Mantoloking include: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

Largely due to the fact that Mantoloking sits along the Route 35 corridor, it has also seen its share of DWI, DUI, refusal, and motor vehicle violations. Mantoloking Police Officers wrote an estimated 20 drunk driving or driving while intoxicated charges as well as almost 290 motor vehicle violations in 2010. DWI, DUI, and refusal charges are very serious and a conviction can result in jail-time, loss of license, heavy fines and other penalties, completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device. Motor vehicle violations, while not as serious, can still result in license suspension, points assessed on your driver's license by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, and fines. Commonly written motor vehicle violations include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97).

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Red Bank is a small borough in northern Monmouth County with a population of about 12,000. It is directly accessible through Route 35, County Road 520, the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast line, and bus services that run between Red Bank and Manhattan daily. Throughout the years, Red Bank has established itself as a center of artistic activity in New Jersey. Both the Count Basie Theatre and the Two River Theater host a large number of extremely popular shows every year, while the Red Bank International Film Festival and Red Bank Jazz and Blues Festival also draw in substantial crowds during the summer months.

Being such a hotspot of activity, the always bustling Red Bank is watched over very carefully by local law enforcement. As summer approaches and crowds become more and more substantial, typically the number of disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle moving violations, and DWI, DUI, and Refusal charges begin to pick up.

Last year, Red Bank witnessed 1,673 motor vehicle moving violations. 88 DWIs were issued in Red Bank in 2010. Moving violations can be seemingly harmless charges but may carry with them severe penalties. Infractions such as reckless driving, careless driving, driving with a suspended license and many others can result in loss of license, substantial monetary fines, and jail time. Drunk driving related violations such as DWI, DUI, and Refusal can have much more serious consequences.

Disorderly persons offenses are also quite common and usually increase during summer months as local law enforcement attempt to keep the swelling population in check. Some of the more common disorderly person charges are disorderly conduct (N.J.S 2C: 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C: 33-15), use or possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C:21-2.1), assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), possession of illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 35:10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C: 29-2). These charges can also carry hefty punishments including jail time, significant monetary fines, and community service.

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Bay Head, New Jersey is a small beachfront community located along the Route 35 corridor in Ocean County. Quaint and quiet, Bay Head is home to beautiful homes, pristine beaches, and small boutique shops and restaurants. Bay Head is nestled between Mantoloking and just south of Point Pleasant Beach. Bar patrons inevitably pass through Bay Head when traveling from Seaside Heights to Point Pleasant Beach to visit their favorite watering holes. While small in size, Bay Head does see its share of criminal offenses and motor vehicle violations activity due to its position along the Route 35 corridor.

In 2010, Bay Head saw a few disorderly persons offenses written. A disorderly persons offense is a general category of offenses often written by Bay Head Police Officers to maintain peace and order. If convicted of a disorderly persons offense the individual can face fines, jail time, probation and community service. Some commonly written disorderly persons offenses include: disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C:33-2), trespass (N.J.S. 2C: 18-3(b)), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C: 17-3), simple assault (N.J.S. 2C: 12-1), fake ID (N.J.S. 2C: 28-7), underage drinking (N.J.S. 2C:33-15), possession of CDS (N.J.S. 2C:35-10), and resisting arrest (N.J.S. 2C:29-2).

As previously mentioned, Bay Head's position along the Route 35 corridor lends itself to motor vehicle violations. During 2010, Bay Head Police Officers wrote almost 170 motor vehicle violations. If convicted of a motor vehicle violation, an individual can face fines, license suspension, and points assessed to his or her driver's license by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Some commonly written motor vehicle violations include: speeding (N.J.S. 39:4-98 and N.J.S. 39:4-99), failure to yield to a traffic sign (N.J.S. 39:4-81), reckless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-96), and careless driving (N.J.S. 39:4-97). Bay Head also saw a number of DWI, DUI, and refusal violations in 2010. Convictions for DWI, DUI, and refusal offenses are quite serious and can be life-altering. Depending on the level of the offense, an individual can face jail time, fines and other penalties, loss of license, program and fee requirements of an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC), and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device.

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Ocean Township is located in Monmouth County and bordered by Eatontown, West Long Branch, Tinton Falls, Neptune, and Deal. It has a population of about 28,000 and is directly accessible through Route 35. Among other things, Ocean Township is well known for having an abundance of public parks including Joe Palaia Park, which is home to a large Fourth of July celebration, and Weltz Park. In addition, Ocean Township offers a vast array of outdoor recreational activities including a skateboarding park, public tennis courts, and swimming pools. As summer approaches, locals and vacationers begin utilizing these outdoor facilities in Ocean Township and before long, Ocean and its surrounding neighborhoods are faced with a new found population spike.

Wishing to maintain peace and quiet, local law enforcement normally steps up to the challenge of controlling these summer crowds by issuing more summons for disorderly persons offenses, motor vehicle violations, and DWI charges. Last year, there were 361 disorderly persons offenses handed out in Ocean with some of the most common being disorderly conduct (N.J.S. 2C; 33-2), underage drinking (N.J.S.2C: 33-15), possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia (N.J.S. 2C: 35-10 and N.J.S. 2C: 36-2), criminal mischief (N.J.S. 2C:17-3), and possession of a fake ID (N.J.S. 2C; 21-2.1). If convicted, penalties may include significant monetary fines, jail time, probation, and payment of restitution.

Motor vehicle moving violations and DWI, DUI, or Refusal, are also very common in Ocean Township and can all have serious and far reaching consequences. For an individual charged with a first time DWI offense, the penalties may include loss of driver's license for up to a year, monetary fines up to $500, other fines and penalties, the installation of an interlock device system into their vehicle, completion of a program at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, and jail time. Subsequent offenses lead to even harsher penalties. Less serious moving violations, including speeding and failure to yield at a crosswalk, can also carry with them surprisingly substantial penalties including the assessment of motor vehicle points leading to higher insurance premiums, fines, community service and even jail time. Last year, 2,580 moving violations were handed out in Ocean Township and 99 DWIs.