Pretrial Intervention Archives - New Jersey Criminal Defense Law Blog

New Jersey Court Discusses Criteria for Pre-Trial Intervention in Criminal Matters

Many people who are charged with crimes are law-abiding citizens who find themselves embroiled in unfortunate situations. As such, criminal defendants in New Jersey who meet certain criteria may request pre-trial intervention (PTI), which allows them to avoid the rigors and consequences of a typical criminal trial. Only certain people are eligible for PTI, though, as discussed in a recent New Jersey opinion in a case involving assault. If you are charged with a criminal offense, it is in our best interest to speak to a New Jersey criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your rights.

The Alleged Assault

It is reported that the defendant became intoxicated and struck another individual in the head with a beer bottle when he was in a bar. The defendant admitted to being intoxicated and intending to cause the victim harm, even though he did not know him. The victim suffered a laceration and required medical attention.

Allegedly, the defendant was charged with numerous crimes, including assault and weapons offenses. He applied for PTI, and Probation recommended him for admission, but his application was denied. He appealed, and the Superior Court remanded the matter, after which his application was again denied. He appealed once more, but his second appeal was denied. He was convicted as charged, and he appealed a third time, arguing the trial court erred in not granting his PTI appeal. (more…)

Official Misconduct Charge Will Ultimately be Dismissed Against NJ Worker

It might be hard to believe but thousands upon thousands of our tax dollars were recently expended in an attempt to convict an Emergency Management Official for “stealing” $7 in gas. The official had borrowed the vehicle of a County co-worker when his work vehicle broke down. He replenished $7 worth of gas in the co-worker’s vehicle using the County gas pump as he believed it was appropriate insofar as he utilized the gentleman’s vehicle for County business. The County took issue with this claim and also felt that this conduct was improper irrespective of its factual accuracy.

Coincidentally, the suspect also had an unrelated run-in months earlier with a high-ranking County official. Had the suspect been convicted, he would have been required to forfeit any ability to obtain public employment. It is unclear as to whether the suspect shall be able to keep his State pension.
The aforesaid charge will be dismissed by virtue of Pretrial Intervention (“PTI”). This program allows individuals to avoid a criminal conviction through admission into this diversion program, commonly referred to as PTI. Provided the County worker completes one (1) year in the program, which basically involves probation, his charge will be dismissed.

The PTI program is very effective in NJ. Our NJ Pretrial Intervention Lawyers represent many individuals every year on successful applications for admission to Pretrial Intervention. This program is a success from everyone’s perspective when an individual receives an order of dismissal upon successful completion.