violent Crimes Attorney In New Jersey

Common types of violent crimes in New Jersey include:

1. Assault

Assault involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause bodily injury to another person. There are two main types of assault charges:

• Simple Assault: A less severe form of assault, this is often charged as a disorderly persons offense. It involves minor injuries or the threat of harm without the use of a weapon.
• Penalties: Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000.
• Aggravated Assault: This is a more serious charge and occurs when significant injuries are caused or if a weapon is used. Aggravated assault is typically charged as an indictable offense (felony) and can range from third-degree to second-degree crimes.
• Penalties: 3 to 10 years in prison, depending on the degree of the crime.

2. Homicide

Homicide charges include both murder and manslaughter, depending on the circumstances surrounding the death.

• Murder: First-degree murder involves intentionally and unlawfully killing another person with premeditation. Felony murder, where a death occurs during the commission of another serious crime (such as robbery), is also charged as first-degree murder.
• Penalties: Life in prison, with a minimum of 30 years before parole eligibility, and potentially life without parole in certain cases.
• Manslaughter: Manslaughter can be voluntary (heat of passion) or involuntary (reckless or negligent conduct leading to death). Manslaughter charges carry less severe penalties than murder but are still significant.
• Penalties: 5 to 20 years in prison, depending on the type of manslaughter.

3. Robbery

Robbery involves the use of force, violence, or intimidation to steal from another person. In New Jersey, robbery is considered a violent crime due to the threat or use of physical force during the commission of the theft.

• Second-Degree Robbery: Robbery that involves force or threats of harm is typically charged as a second-degree crime.
• Penalties: 5 to 10 years in prison.
• First-Degree Robbery: If a weapon is used or the victim suffers serious bodily harm, the charge is elevated to first-degree robbery.
• Penalties: 10 to 20 years in prison.

4. Domestic Violence

Domestic violence refers to violent acts committed against a spouse, former partner, family member, or someone in a domestic relationship. These cases are treated seriously in New Jersey, often involving both criminal charges and civil remedies like restraining orders. Domestic violence charges can include assault, harassment, stalking, and more.

• Penalties: Depending on the underlying crime, penalties can range from 6 months in jail to 10 years or more in prison, along with potential restraining orders and loss of child custody.

5. Kidnapping

Kidnapping involves unlawfully taking or confining another person, often by force or threat of force. This serious crime is usually charged as a first-degree offense, particularly if it involves harm to the victim or if it was committed during the commission of another crime, such as sexual assault or robbery.

• Penalties: 15 to 30 years in prison for first-degree kidnapping.

6. Weapons Offenses

New Jersey has strict laws governing the use, possession, and trafficking of weapons. If a weapon, such as a firearm, knife, or other deadly device, is used during the commission of a violent crime, additional charges related to weapons offenses can be brought.

• Penalties: Weapons charges can range from third-degree (3 to 5 years in prison) to second-degree crimes (5 to 10 years in prison) and may be served consecutively with other charges.