Ramsey Disorderly Conduct Lawyer

Attorney Needed for Disorderly Conduct charge in Ramsey NJ

I recently represented a client in the Ramsey Municipal Court who was charged with disorderly conduct in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2(a). This is a petty disorderly persons offense which results in a maximum $500 fine, 90 days in jail, and a permanent criminal charge on your record. The defendant was charged with being intoxicated in public after attending a wedding and having too much to drink. He had no prior record and was in his mid-thirties. He also was employed at a local hospital as an EMT and had been a volunteer fireman for Fair Lawn in the past as well.

When I first appeared in court, the State offered a guilty plea in exchange for just a fine, no probation or jail time. Unfortunately, a plea of guilty to this offense would result in a criminal record and would almost certainly result in the defendant losing his job at the hospital. I requested a conference with the arresting officer on the next court date which was permitted. In the meantime, I had my client submit to a comprehensive alcohol evaluation and attend several alcoholics anonymous (AA) meetings to deal with any alcohol related issues he had.

On the next court date, I explained the situation to the arresting officer and she was willing to dismiss the disorderly conduct charge and write the defendant an ordinance violation which results in a fine and no criminal record. This was a great relief to the client who was able to keep his job at the hospital.

The difference between a criminal conviction and a plea to a local ordinance charge (also known as a town ordinance, municipal ordinance, or borough ordinance) can not be overstated. With a plea to the disorderly conduct charge, the client would have a permanent criminal charge on his record that he could not even apply to expunge for 3-5 years at the earliest. With a resolution to a local ordinance violation, this results in a fine only and no criminal conviction.

Arrested for Disorderly Conduct in Ramsey – Need Lawyer

If you or a loved one needs assistance with a criminal charge in Ramsey NJ in Bergen County, contact our offices now for immediate assistance at 201-556-1570. The initial consultation is always provided free of charge.