Legal Question in Criminal Law in New Jersey

False Id Punishment

I was caught using another persons id (that I found in a nightclub) at a concert in NJ. I was cuffed taken down to the state trooper base where I was issued a 2C:21-2.1C summons complaint. I got back into the concert after they let me go and spoke to couple of the troopers and the one that actually gave me the ticket. Couple of them said they would drop it down possibly to a ''Ordinance'' which would have lesser punishment. They said don't worry about an attorney because they hand out tons of these tickets (actually I wasn't the only one getting the same ticket but because I gave them a hard time they kicked me out and gave me a 3rd degree offense) in the municipality so I was hoping it would be an easy ride if I just spoke to the prosecutor. I don't want a criminal record is simple and so what do you recommend I do. I have never been convicted of a crime or arrested in my life so I do have a clean record. I have faith I could talk to the prosecutor professionally and get him to understand ''it was the dumbest mistake ever.'' I do want a career in law enforcement so the lesser the punishment the better. I'm also 20 about to be 21 in December of 2008.


Asked on 8/27/08, 5:09 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Berman Law Offices of Michael A. Berman

Re: False Id Punishment

From my experience, an attorney would be very helpful here. The troopers can't make the prosecutor downgrade the offense, and the offense won't be downgraded without someone bringing some pressure on your behalf.

This is serious since it could have long term implications to your carrer. Pay some lawyer a reasonable fee and let him handle it. Call me if you'd like.

Mike

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Answered on 8/28/08, 1:57 pm
Jef Henninger, Esq Law Offices of Jef Henninger, Esq.

Re: False Id Punishment

Nothing against these troopers, but I don't trust them for one second. I don't know too many towns where they drop 2C's down to MO's without an attorney. In addition, I know many towns where they don't give you a MO with an attorney and you have to take the case to trial.

I have an office in Toms River and Eatontown and my initial consultations are always free. So, I'd be happy to discuss this with you further so I can get more information. Just call me at 732/247/3340.

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Answered on 8/27/08, 6:08 pm
Gary Moore Gary Moore Attorney At Law

Re: False Id Punishment

You seem to feel you don't need a lawyer. So, figure it out yourself.

Gary Moore

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Answered on 8/27/08, 8:24 pm
Ronald Aronds Law Office of Ronald Aronds, LLC

Re: False Id Punishment

It doesn't sound like you have a question here, but nevertheless I will tell you that if you have received a third degree charge you are looking at up to $15,000.00 in fines and up to five years in state prison, not just some little town ordinance. If you are really facing a third degree county level superior court charge then you cannot just talk to the prosecutor- you do need a lawyer. If you can't afford a private lawyer you should apply for the public defender. If you would like to discuss this further please give me a call. I never charge for simply talking to a person about their case. Thank you.

Sincerely yours, -Ronald Aronds, Esq.

www.njworkerscompensationlaw.com

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Answered on 9/02/08, 5:52 pm


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