Violations of Disorderly and Petty Disorderly offenses

Violations of Fish and Game laws, Parks & Recreation laws, Weights & Measures Laws, SPCA laws, & boating laws.

Violations of Municipal Ordinances (Local Laws)

If a defendant pleads not guilty and wishes to have a trial, the Judge will hear the testimony of all persons involved, and render a decision of guilty, not guilty, or dismissal. When the defendant is found guilty, the Judge will impose a sentence. It is sometimes necessary to postpone cases pending a trial so that involved persons can be notified.

If a defendant fails to appear on their court date, a warrant may be issued for their arrest, and their driving privileges may be revoked.

The New Jersey State Supreme Court allows plea agreements to be made in Municipal Court, except for Driving While Intoxicated (39:4-50), and certain drug-related cases. In exchange for a guilty plea, the Prosecutor can recommend an amendment to a charge to one that is less serious, or result in a point reduction on the defendant’s driving record. The Judge must approve all of the plea agreements.

In traffic matters, if the ticket is marked Court Appearance Required, you must appear on that date and time indicated on the ticket, whether your intent is to plead guilty or not guilty.

If your ticket is not marked Court Appearance Required, and you wish to plead not guilty, you must contact the court seven days prior to the court date to inform us of your intent, and to make certain that the court date that appears on your ticket is available. Failure to notify us may result in more than one appearance in court.

Also, please let us know if you have special needs, such as hearing impaired equipment, interpreters, etc., so that we can have available the proper accommodations for your needs on the date you are scheduled to appear for court.

Please note, it is important to have your summons number available when calling, so that we may better assist you.

Bail may be forfeited if the defendant fails to appear on any court date they are scheduled for. That is why it is very important that the defendant knows the exact date and time of their court appearance. If there is any confusion regarding dates, please feel free to phone our office during regular business hours to confirm your court date.

Bail may only be returned to the person that posted it, and only when the case has come to a conclusion. If the person who posted the bail cannot attend court on the day of trial, their bail will be mailed to them, and only to the address that that appears on the bail forms.

Bail may also be applied to fines and costs assessed if the defendant or persons that posted it wants it applied.

In some minor traffic offenses, a bail waiver may be signed. The defendant enters a guilty plea, gives up their right to a trial, and authorizes the court to apply the bail posted to the fines and costs assessed.

You must appear on your scheduled court date to apply for the public defender. Public defenders are assigned to indigent defendants. You must complete an application that is reviewed by the Judge. A non-refundable application fee from $50 – $200 may be imposed.

The public defender is assigned only when the pending charge carries a penalty of jail, suspension of driving privileges or a substantial fine and only if the judge determines that the defendant cannot afford to retain an attorney.

Payments may be made by check, cash, money order, in person or through the mail. If a court appearance is not required, you may pay your fine by Visa or MasterCard at www.njmcdirect.com. A small fee is charged.

You must appear before the judge to request your postponement.

The municipal court does not impose points. Points are assessed by NJ Motor Vehicle Commission. Call NJMVC for questions about points and surcharges. You can reach the NJMVC by calling (856) 292-6500. The Suspensions and Restoration number remains unchanged, (609) 292-7500.

Go to njcourts.gov to review what your charge if any or click here