A.) TYPES OF OFFENSES

Felony/Indictable Offense are crimes punishable by more than 6 months in prison. It is a crime in which you have the right to a Jury Trial.

Misdemeanor/Disorderly Person Offense are offenses punishable by upto 6 Months in the county jail. It is a offense in which you do not have a right to a Jury Trial. The Judge is both the trier of Fact and of the Law.

B.) RIGHT'S OF A CRIMINAL DEFENDANT

   Right Against Self-incrimination

   Right to an Attorney

   Right to Confront Witnesses

   Right to a Jury Trial

   Right to Produce Evidence

C.) WHEN SHOULD I SEE A LAWYER?

If you are questioned or arrested by the authorities for any reason you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. An Attorney has a better sense of how any statements by you may effect your rights or your case.

D.) WHAT IS BAIL

Bail is cash, bond, property or other security that is placed with the court to insure that you appear in court as scheduled. If you do not show up for your court date then the bail is forfited and you are subject to arrest. If you can not make it to court for any reason you should contact your attorney. If you do not have an attorney then you should call the court directly.