New Jersey Criminal Lawyers Blog
Having a criminal record can impact an offender’s life long after their case has concluded. A criminal record may affect one’s ability to gain employment, obtain housing, and hold certain professional certifications and licenses, among other things. In some instances, qualifying offenders can avoid this by having their criminal records expunged.
Expungement is a process by which individuals can petition to erase their convictions from their public criminal record. Once granted, the expungement will remove, seal, or isolate all information regarding an arrest, court proceedings related to that arrest, any criminal or juvenile conviction, and all outcomes of the case, including sentencing. Thereafter, any expunged information can be revealed only to law enforcement, and judiciary or corrections agencies. The offender has the right to tell others, including potential employers, that he or she has no criminal record.
Every state has its own expungement laws. In New Jersey, expungement petitions are decided by a judge in the Superior Court of the county in which the offender was arrested or convicted. For crimes committed outside of New Jersey, offenders would need to seek legal counsel in the state or county where they were convicted.
In New Jersey, probation is a court-ordered period of supervision imposed as an alternative to incarceration, allowing an individual convicted of a 
Recognizing that young minds are still developing and learning, our justice system allows for 
When you are accused of a crime, guilty or not, how you react initially matters. Resisting law enforcement, claiming your innocence, attempting to direct suspicion elsewhere can all work against you in the end. Although it is a stressful situation, remain as calm as possible and adhere to the following:
It is the prosecutor’s job to build cases with sufficient evidence to show probable cause that a crime has been committed and that the defendant is responsible for the crime as charged. To do this, he or she must be familiar with law enforcement techniques in criminal investigation, understand how to gather and present evidence, and know how to interview and prepare witnesses. A prosecutor must also possess a strong understanding of what evidence is necessary to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. A prosecutor also knows what would constitute a fair plea offer recommendation and disposition.
The Trial
The Grand Jury
The Arrest
Facing criminal charges is a serious matter and one you shouldn’t face alone. It is vital that you do not discuss any of the facts of your case with anyone other than your attorney. Remember you have the right to remain silent. It is in your best interest to remain silent.