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Court Staff Functions | Municipal Court

THINGS THE COURT STAFF CAN AND CANNOT DO

  • WE CAN explain and answer questions about how the court works.

  • WE CAN tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court.

  • WE CAN give you some information from your case file.

  • WE CAN provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms

  • WE CAN usually answer questions about court deadlines.

  • WE CANNOT give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice.

  • WE CANNOT tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court.

  • WE CANNOT recommend a lawyer.

  • WE CANNOT talk to the judge about your case.

  • WE CANNOT let you talk to the judge outside of court.

  • WE CANNOT change an order issued by a judge.

  • 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.

  1. You are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
  2. You have the right to be informed of the charges against you.
  3. You have the right to remain silent concerning the charges against you, and anything you say may be held against you.
  4. You have the right to retain an attorney.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. You have the right to testify or not to testify on your own behalf.
  8. You have the right to call or subpoena witnesses to testify on your behalf.
  9. You have the right to appeal within 20 days of any conviction.