Court Staff Functions | Municipal Court
THINGS THE COURT STAFF CAN AND CANNOT DO
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WE CAN explain and answer questions about how the court works.
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WE CAN tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court.
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WE CAN give you some information from your case file.
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WE CAN provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms
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WE CAN usually answer questions about court deadlines.
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WE CANNOT give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice.
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WE CANNOT tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court.
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WE CANNOT recommend a lawyer.
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WE CANNOT talk to the judge about your case.
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WE CANNOT let you talk to the judge outside of court.
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WE CANNOT change an order issued by a judge.
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WE CANNOT give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court.
DISABILITIES
If you need the services of an interpreter or have a physical disability, please notify the municipal court prior to your court appearance.
YOUR RIGHTS AS A DEFENDANT IN THE MUNICIPAL COURTS IN THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY.
- You are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
- You have the right to be informed of the charges against you.
- You have the right to remain silent concerning the charges against you, and anything you say may be held against you.
- You have the right to retain an attorney.
- You have the right to be assigned an attorney if the judge determines that you cannot afford an attorney, and there is a likelihood that if you are convicted, you will either go to jail, receive a substantial fine or your driver's license will be suspended.
- You have the right to request a reasonable postponement so that you may have an opportunity to consult with your attorney and prepare a proper defense.
- You have the right to testify or not to testify on your own behalf.
- You have the right to call or subpoena witnesses to testify on your behalf.
- You have the right to appeal within 20 days of any conviction.