Blog

Facing criminal charges is an overwhelming experience, but understanding what to expect at your first court appearance in New Jersey can ease some of the anxiety. This practical guide will walk you through the process, highlight key considerations, and explain why having a skilled Understanding the Purpose of the First Court Appearance Your first court appearance, often called an arraignment, serves as the formal start of your criminal case. During this hearing, the court will...

Navigating the complexities of New Jersey’s What Is Megan’s Law in New Jersey? Megan’s Law is named after Megan Kanka, a seven-year-old girl tragically killed by a neighbor with a history of sexual offenses. In response, the law was enacted to require community notification and the establishment of a public sex offender registry. Under Megan’s Law, individuals convicted of certain Key Provisions of Megan’s Law Mandatory Registration: Community Notification: Ongoing Reporting Obligations:...

Drug possession Understanding the Gravity of Drug Possession in a School Zone In New Jersey, being charged with drug possession within 1,000 feet of a school zone is governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7, a statute that enforces enhanced penalties to deter drug-related activity near schools. What many may not realize is that this law applies even when school is not in session, including during weekends, holidays, or summer breaks. The charge is not dependent on whether...

A criminal record in New Jersey can limit opportunities, affecting employment, housing, education, and more. Expungement offers a legal way to remove certain criminal records from public view, providing a pathway to renewed opportunities. In this guide, we explain how expungement works in New Jersey, covering eligibility criteria, the steps involved, and the benefits of working with a What Does Expungement Mean in New Jersey? Expungement in New Jersey is a legal process that...

When facing a criminal conviction in New Jersey, the consequences can extend beyond fines and imprisonment, affecting career prospects, family life, and personal reputation. However, New Jersey law provides an opportunity to appeal under certain circumstances, allowing defendants to contest potential legal errors in their cases. This article will guide you through the process of appealing a criminal conviction in New Jersey, discussing what it entails, common grounds for appeals, and why working with an...

Facing a In this blog, we explore how domestic violence charges may affect a realtor’s license, the legal challenges involved, and how a skilled defense can help protect both your rights and your career. The Professional Risks of Domestic Violence Allegations for Realtors In New Jersey, the The NJREC evaluates each case individually, considering the circumstances and any criminal history when determining whether disciplinary action, including license suspension or revocation, is necessary. Realtors...

Attorneys Hartman, Chartered is thrilled to announce that Nicholas received the award for his significant contributions to three impactful legislative initiatives, each advancing protections for vulnerable communities: Expansion of Civil Protections under SASPA Advocacy for Mental Health Reform in Bar Admission Standards Advancing Protections against Coercive Control in Domestic Violence Cases We at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, are incredibly proud of Nicholas's achievements and are honored to have him as part of our team. His...

Being in the wrong place at the wrong time can have serious legal consequences, especially in cases involving drug use. In New Jersey, even if you’re not actively participating in drug use, simply being present at a gathering where drugs are involved could lead to criminal charges. This article will help you understand the legal risks, how these charges work, and what defenses may be available to you. What is Constructive Possession in New Jersey...

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

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