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Misdemeanors Leveraging More Than Two Decades of Experience to Protect Your Future

Misdemeanor Attorney in New Jersey

Facing a Disorderly Persons Offense in New Jersey? You Are Not Alone

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, formally known as Disorderly Persons Offenses in New Jersey, you may be feeling a mix of anxiety, disbelief, and confusion about what comes next. At Roberts & Teeter, LLC, we understand the worry that comes with the possibility of a criminal record.

Many clients contacting us are facing a first encounter with the legal system. The uncertainty can feel overwhelming, but the decisions you make now are critical to protecting your future. Our attorneys are here to stand by your side, answer your questions, and help you through each step. You do not have to handle this alone.

As dedicated misdemeanor attorneys in New Jersey, we believe every client deserves personal attention and respect. From your first call, you work directly with Michael Roberts or Matthew Teeter—not an associate or paralegal. You deserve an advocate who listens, explains, and helps you pursue the best path forward.

Protect your name and future today. Contact Roberts & Teeter, LLC for a dedicated misdemeanor attorney in New Jersey. Call (732) 607-5553 or connect with us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Understanding Disorderly Persons Offenses in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the classification of criminal offenses differs from the federal system and many other states. Misdemeanors are referred to as Disorderly Persons Offenses (DP) or Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses (PDP). These are heard in the local Municipal Courts, not the Superior Court (which handles Indictable Crimes/Felonies).

While DP offenses are not considered "crimes" under the New Jersey Constitution (N.J.S.A. 2C:1-4), they are still serious criminal violations that carry punitive consequences and are not subject to expungement in the same way as an acquittal.

Common Disorderly Persons Offenses

The following offenses are frequently charged as Disorderly Persons Offenses, requiring a dedicated misdemeanor attorney in New Jersey:

  • Simple Assault (N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1a): Attempting to cause or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another.
  • Shoplifting (Under $200): Taking merchandise from a store valued under the threshold.
  • Harassment: Making communications anonymously, using offensive coarse language, or engaging in a course of alarming conduct.
  • Possession of less than 50 grams of Marijuana.
  • Disorderly Conduct: Engaging in fighting, threatening, or creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition.
  • Criminal Mischief (Under $500): Damaging property valued under the statutory threshold.

Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses (PDP)

Petty DP offenses are the least serious form of criminal offense in New Jersey and include specific acts like:

  • Trespassing (Defiant Trespass): Refusing to leave property after being told to leave.
  • Consuming alcoholic beverages in public.

Penalties and Consequences of Disorderly Persons Convictions

Never mistake the Municipal Court process for a simple bureaucratic hurdle. A conviction for a Disorderly Persons offense results in a criminal record and serious penalties, necessitating the protection of a misdemeanor attorney in New Jersey.

Direct Consequences

  • Disorderly Persons Offense (DP):
    • Jail: Up to 6 months in the county jail.
    • Fine: Up to $1,000.
  • Petty Disorderly Persons Offense (PDP):
    • Jail: Up to 30 days in the county jail.
    • Fine: Up to $500.

Additionally, convictions often result in mandatory assessments, court costs, and possible community service.

Collateral Consequences

Even without a long jail sentence, a DP conviction creates a criminal record that can follow you indefinitely:

  • Employment Screening: Many employers, especially those in finance, education, or childcare, conduct detailed background checks. A DP conviction can result in being passed over for a job.
  • Professional Licensing: Convictions can jeopardize or prevent you from obtaining licenses in fields such as nursing, teaching, and law.
  • Immigration Issues: Certain offenses, even minor ones, can be classified as Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT), leading to serious consequences for non-citizens, including deportation or denial of citizenship.
  • Public Stigma: The record is public and accessible, potentially harming your reputation and standing in the community.

We recognize these severe potential consequences, which is why our firm's exclusive focus on Criminal Defense is so crucial in every case we handle.

Why Work With Our New Jersey Misdemeanor Lawyers

Choosing Roberts & Teeter, LLC means you get a boutique law firm with a deep commitment to people across New Jersey. Our attorneys, Michael Roberts and Matthew Teeter, have years of experience representing individuals strictly in criminal defense cases.

We never hand your case to a junior attorney or dilute our focus across unrelated legal issues. By limiting our practice to criminal law in New Jersey, we deeply understand the processes in municipal courts, the tendencies of local prosecutors, and how to build effective defense strategies. Our work involves diligence, honest communication, and personal attention to every detail.

We also offer a free initial consultation. This allows you to speak with us directly about your case and options. From the start, you can expect open conversation, honest answers, and accessible, high-quality representation.

Our Personalized Approach to Misdemeanor Defense

Our approach starts with a careful review of your specific charges, background, and goals. We gather and examine the facts, scrutinize the prosecutor’s evidence, and consult with private investigators or psychologists if that can strengthen your defense. Through every phase, we keep you updated, answer your questions plainly, and ensure you always know your options.

Our defense strategy is firmly built on:

  • Personalized evaluation of your situation
  • Proactive evidence gathering and expert consultation when needed
  • Clear, ongoing communication so you never feel out of the loop
  • Consistent focus on preserving your future and minimizing negative consequences

Our clients value the sense of partnership and support, not just at court but throughout every step of the process. We strive to address your concerns while guiding you with honest, informed advice.

Get Guidance From Dedicated New Jersey Misdemeanor Attorneys

Moving forward after a misdemeanor charge is far easier when you have experienced New Jersey attorneys by your side. Contact us for a confidential, no-pressure consultation where we can review your situation and explain the next steps. 

Our direct attorney involvement, focus on local criminal law, and commitment to treating clients like family means you will be supported throughout your case.

Call Roberts & Teeter, LLC today at (732) 607-5553 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation. We are here to help you take control of your next step.

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What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?

Roberts & Teeter, LLC is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.

  • Committed to Communicating with Clients
    The lawyers at Roberts & Teeter, LLC are dedicated to keeping clients informed about their cases.
  • Unique & Personal Representation
    Our clients are not handed off to an associate; they work exclusively with the partners of the firm.
  • Exclusive Focus on Criminal Defense
    Roberts & Teeter, LLC only handles matters and cases associated with criminal defense.

What to Do After Being Charged With a Misdemeanor in New Jersey

Your actions immediately after a misdemeanor charge can significantly affect your case. Taking the right steps early increases the chances of a better resolution.

After receiving a misdemeanor charge in New Jersey, take these steps:

  • Speak only with your attorney about the case. Anything you say to anyone else, including law enforcement, could be used by the prosecution.
  • Write down your account of what happened while details are fresh, and keep any documents or citations from the incident.
  • Attend all court appearances at the correct municipal court (check official paperwork for location and date).
  • Reach out to a misdemeanor lawyer in New Jersey as early as possible. Early legal advice and preparation give your defense the best start.

If you aren’t sure which municipal court is handling your situation, look at the information on your ticket or summons, or call us for help. Our attorneys are familiar with courts throughout New Jersey and can help you navigate the initial steps, deadlines, and requirements necessary to move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a misdemeanor in New Jersey stay on my record permanently?

A misdemeanor (disorderly persons offense) in New Jersey can remain on your record, but some offenses may be eligible for expungement after a certain waiting period, provided you qualify under state law. Whether expungement is available depends on your specific charge, prior record, and current legal standards. We review each client’s case to see if expungement is possible and help explain how the process works in New Jersey.

How is your firm's approach different from other misdemeanor attorneys?

Our firm stands out because clients work directly with Michael Roberts or Matthew Teeter throughout their case, not with junior staff or paralegals. We focus solely on criminal defense within New Jersey, so our legal strategies are built on detailed knowledge of local courts and prosecutors. We personalize every defense to the client's individual circumstances, which helps ensure you receive attentive, thorough representation at every stage.

How soon should I call a misdemeanor lawyer after being charged?

You should contact a misdemeanor lawyer as soon as you’re aware of the charge, ideally before your first scheduled court appearance. Early involvement allows us to advise you before critical deadlines pass, collect evidence, and shape your defense before court begins. Timely action can lead to stronger legal options and better outcomes.

Will I have to go to court for a misdemeanor charge?

Most misdemeanor charges in New Jersey go through municipal courts, such as Jersey City Municipal Court or Camden Municipal Court, depending on where the incident occurred. You typically must appear in court for these cases, but your attorney can sometimes appear on your behalf at certain hearings. We walk clients through each stage, prepare you for what to expect, and support you throughout the process.

How much does it cost to hire your firm for a misdemeanor case?

We offer a free initial consultation. After that, our fees are straightforward and discussed at the beginning. Costs depend on factors like the complexity of the case and any outside experts that may be needed. You will always receive a clear breakdown of fees with no hidden costs, making your decision easier and less stressful.

Can a misdemeanor really affect my future employment or immigration status?

Yes, a misdemeanor conviction can impact job applications, professional licenses, and sometimes immigration status. Many employers and licensing agencies review criminal histories, and a record can raise concerns. Our attorneys consider these future implications as part of our strategy and work to minimize impacts wherever possible.

Representation Aimed at Results

Aggressively Pursuing the Best Possible Outcome for Each Client
  • Pre-Trial Intervention Granted Possession of Marijuana
  • Case Dismissed 4th Shoplifting Offense
  • Received No Loss of License 2nd Driving While Intoxicated
  • Case Dismissed Possession of CDS, Intent to Distribute
  • Case Dismissed Aggravated Assault
    Experience Wins Cases

    With nearly two decades of combined experience the attorneys at Roberts & Teeter have what it takes to effectively fight your case and protect your future. 

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