When it is considered a crime in New Jersey?
A crime is defined in NJ as an offense which carriers in excess of six months of potential incarceration. Offenses involving less than six months of incarceration are not considered crimes in New Jersey and are referred to as disorderly persons offenses.
Types of Crimes, Statute of Limitations, and Criminal Records
- New Jersey Criminal Statute of Limitations: Statutes of limitations set forth the time period within which the state must commence a case for a crime.
- New Jersey Misdemeanor (Disorderly Person) Crimes by Class and Sentences: In New Jersey, crimes are not categorized as felonies and misdemeanors but as indictable crimes, disorderly person offenses, and petty disorderly person offenses. Disorderly person offenses and petty disorderly person offenses (DP offenses) are the equivalent of misdemeanors in other states, because they are less serious offenses and are punishable by less than one year in jail.
- New Jersey Fenoly (Indictable Offense) Crimes by Class and Sentences: An indictable offense in New Jersey is the equivalent of a felony in other states, because the sentence for any indictable offense is at least one year in prison.
- Expunging or Sealing Adult Criminal Records in New Jersey: In New Jersey, your criminal record may be expunged — that is, erased or sealed — under the circumstances described below. If your record is expunged, it is hidden from public view.
