Being convicted of a crime in New Jersey can have lasting consequences, even after the court trial is over. Whether you’re found guilty of a minor offense or a serious crime, it’s important to understand the next steps, what penalties you might face, and how a criminal conviction can affect your future.
This post will help you navigate what happens after a criminal conviction in New Jersey. If you’re facing criminal charges, consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney Jersey City can make a big difference in how your case is handled and what outcomes you might expect.
1. Sentencing
Once you’re convicted, the next step is sentencing. This is when the judge decides what your punishment will be, based on the severity of the crime and any other factors like your criminal history.
For most crimes in New Jersey, there are two primary types of sentencing:
-
Incarceration: You may be sent to jail or prison, depending on the crime.
-
Probation: You may avoid jail but have to follow strict rules, like meeting with a probation officer regularly.
The judge may also consider alternatives to jail, such as fines, community service, or drug/alcohol treatment, depending on the nature of the offense.
2. Fines and Restitution
In addition to or instead of jail time, a judge may impose fines on you for your crime. These fines can range from small amounts for minor offenses to large sums for more serious crimes.
You might also be required to pay restitution, which means compensating the victim for any damages or losses caused by your actions. For example, if you were convicted of theft, you may have to pay the victim back for the stolen property.
3. Probation
If you are sentenced to probation, you won’t go to jail (unless you violate the terms of your probation). However, probation comes with conditions that you must follow, such as:
-
Regular check-ins with a probation officer
-
Staying out of trouble with the law
-
Attending rehabilitation programs (if necessary)
-
Performing community service
Violating any of these conditions can result in a violation of probation and could lead to jail time.
4. Incarceration (Jail or Prison)
If your crime is serious enough, the court may impose a sentence of incarceration. This means you will be sent to jail or prison to serve time.
In New Jersey, the length of your sentence will depend on the crime committed. New Jersey has both county jails for short-term sentences and state prisons for longer-term sentences. For example:
-
Misdemeanors generally lead to jail time of up to one year.
-
Felonies can result in years in prison, with sentences varying based on the severity of the crime.
For some crimes, the judge may offer parole, which allows you to be released early from prison under certain conditions.
5. Appealing a Conviction
If you believe that you were wrongly convicted, you have the right to appeal the verdict. An appeal is a request for a higher court to review your case and decide whether your conviction should be overturned or a new trial should be held.
During the appeal, a criminal defense attorney can argue that errors were made in your case—such as improper jury instructions, incorrect evidence being used, or violations of your rights—that could have affected the outcome. Appeals are complex, and it’s critical to have a lawyer who understands the process.
6. Expungement: Can You Clear Your Record?
After serving your sentence or completing probation, you may be eligible to have your criminal record expunged. Expungement means that the records of your conviction will be sealed, making it easier to move on with your life without the weight of a criminal record.
Not all crimes are eligible for expungement, but many are. If you meet the requirements, a criminal defense attorney can help guide you through the process to clear your record and improve your future prospects.
7. Long-Term Effects of a Conviction
Even after you’ve served your sentence or completed probation, a criminal conviction can affect your future in many ways:
-
Employment: Many employers check criminal backgrounds before hiring. A conviction can make it harder to find a job, especially in fields that require background checks.
-
Housing: Landlords may check your criminal history before renting to you. This can make finding a place to live difficult.
-
Immigration: If you’re not a U.S. citizen, a conviction could lead to deportation or difficulty obtaining citizenship.
-
Licensing: Certain professional licenses may be denied or revoked due to a criminal conviction.
A criminal defense attorney can help you understand the long-term consequences and may be able to assist in mitigating some of these effects.
Final Thoughts
A criminal conviction in New Jersey can have a lasting impact on your life, from the sentencing phase all the way through your future. Whether you’re facing jail time, probation, fines, or other consequences, it’s important to understand what comes next.
If you’ve been convicted of a crime, consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney Jersey City to explore your options and get guidance on your next steps. They can help you navigate the complex legal system, protect your rights, and work to minimize the long-term effects of a conviction.