The Law Offices of David W. Polsky

Municipal Court Information

The Municipal Courts handle significantly more cases than any other part of the New Jersey Judiciary. In 2005, for example, nearly 6.6 million cases were processed statewide.

The Municipal Courts in New Jersey are considered courts of limited jurisdiction, having responsibility for motor vehicle and parking tickets, minor criminal-type offenses, municipal ordinance offenses and violations of the fish and game laws. A Municipal Court usually has jurisdiction only over cases that occur within the boundaries of its municipality.

A Municipal Court Judge presides over each Court with a Municipal Prosecutor representing the State of New Jersey. A case comes before a Municipal Court by the signing of a Complaint by either a private citizen or a police officer.

Traffic Offenses and Parking violations:
Traffic Offenses and Parking violations consisted of approximately 88% of all cases heard in Municipal courts in New Jersey in 2005.

Municipal Courts in New Jersey have statutory authority to hear and adjudicate most allegations of violations of the Motor Vehicle laws. Guilty verdicts for Motor Vehicle violations may result in license suspension, fines, community service, increases in automobile insurance rates, subject the driver to potential civil liability and may require payments of surcharges to the Division of Motor Vehicles. Some Motor Vehicle violations even require mandatory jail sentences.

Criminal Offenses:
Municipal Courts in New Jersey have statutory authority to hear and adjudicate petty, disorderly and disorderly person offenses. A conviction can have serious consequences including a potential jail sentence and fine. Each of these cases are generally fact specific and it is highly advisable that these matters be discussed with an attorney.

No matter what violation you have been charged with, everyone issued a Summons to appear in Municipal Court has the following rights:

1. You have the right to be informed of the charge against you.
2. You have the right to remain silent concerning the charge against you. Anything you say can be used against you.
3. You may plead guilty or not guilty to the charge against you. If you choose to plead not guilty, a trial will be scheduled. You must be prepared to proceed at that time.
4. You have the right to a reasonable adjournment to speak to an attorney and/or to prepare a defense.
5. You have the right to an attorney.
6. You are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The State has the burden of proving you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

I am experienced in handling Municipal Court matters and would be happy to talk to you to discuss your options.

Call Now (973)686-9787 or Email Polskylegal@aol.com