Lesser-Known NJ Laws

It is commonly known that all New Jersey gas stations are full-service, but did you realize that there is actually a law on the books prohibiting motorists from pumping their own gas in this state? The law was originally intended to protect personal safety.

There are numerous lesser-known laws in New Jersey that can result in criminal consequences:

• Leaving someone you injured exposed to further danger without offering assistance or reporting the incident to the proper authorities can result in serious criminal charges.
• Possessing or wearing a bullet-proof vest while committing or attempting to commit certain other serious offenses can net you a separate criminal charge.
• Calling in bomb threats, creating a false public alarm, reporting baseless emergencies, and other similar activities will result in criminal charges.
• Purposely disrupting lawful meetings, gatherings, and funeral processions, are violations of the law.
• Defacing, destroying or removing an official traffic sign or signal.
• Removing or altering the VIN (vehicle identification number), trademark or other distinguishing mark on any vehicle is a criminal offense. Possession of such vehicle or any of its parts is also a crime, the degree of which is determined based on value.

Other laws with penal consequences:

• New Jersey state law prohibits the issuance of personalized license plates to anyone convicted of a DUI, vehicular homicide, and other serious criminal and motor vehicle violations resulting in license suspensions.
• Graffiti may be an artform to some, but juveniles caught in the act in New Jersey may be subject to a driver’s license suspension.
• Car dealers are prohibited from opening shop and selling cars on Sundays throughout the state.

There are other less common laws statewide, others localized to specific townships or municipalities in the form of ordinances. The important thing is if you do find yourself in trouble with the law, especially for serious offenses, an experienced criminal defense attorney can orient you, guide you, and protect you.