Court Harassment Defense Tips

Summary

In New Jersey, harassment charges are assessed based on evidence. Even if your neighbor is evicted, you must still attend court for your charges. Your first court appearance, or arraignment, involves hearing the charges, entering a plea, and setting bail. Further court dates may follow. Discuss all details with your public defender, including your neighbors eviction due to excessive noise, as it may impact your case.

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I have to go to court because neighbor says I've harassed her
Hi ****, I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Could you please let me know where you're located so I can provide the most accurate information? Also, could you provide a bit more detail about the nature of the alleged harassment?
New Jersey
Hello ****, it's crucial to understand your situation better. Could you provide more details about the alleged harassment? What actions are being taken against you in court?
I haven't confronted or said anything to this person and then I get a letter saying I'm charged with harassment
In New Jersey, harassment can be verbal or physical. Even if you haven't confronted her, there are other ways she may feel harassed. It's best to:
- Engage legal representation
- Gather any evidence of your non-involvement
- Prepare to contest the charges in court
Ensure your actions align with N.J.S.A. 2C:*-*, the New Jersey Harassment Statute.
So courts won't necessarily charge me with harassment right
In New Jersey, the court will assess the evidence presented. If it's found that you violated N.J.S.A. 2C:*-*, they may charge you with harassment. However, if you're able to prove you didn't harass, you may not be charged. Legal representation is advised.
I'll have a public defender. Also she's the one being asked to be evicted because of her creating excessive noise. Can I tell the judge that?
Yes, ****. In court, you can mention her eviction due to excessive noise. It could potentially demonstrate her disruptive behavior. However, discuss this with your public defender first. They can advise on the best approach.
I was told getting charged neighbor can still be evicted
****, could you clarify who told you that your neighbor can still be evicted even if you are charged? This will help me provide more accurate information. The eviction process is usually separate from a harassment charge.
Management
It's true, ****. A harassment charge against you and your neighbor's eviction are two different matters. The management can proceed with eviction due to your neighbor's disruptive behavior, regardless of your harassment charge. Consult with your public defender for the best course of action.
First appearance in court is exactly what
Your first appearance in court, or arraignment, is mainly for these purposes:
- Hearing the charges against you
- Entering a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
- Setting bail, if applicable
- Scheduling the next court date.
Ensure you consult with your public defender before making any decisions.
So there's more court dates after this
Yes, ****. After your arraignment, further court dates may be set for different stages in the process, such as pre-trial conferences, motions, or the trial itself. Always communicate with your public defender to understand the timeline.
What if neighbor is being evicted what's the point of trial
The point of trial is to address your harassment charges, independent of your neighbor's eviction. It's to determine your guilt or innocence under N.J.S.A. 2C:*-*. Your neighbor's eviction doesn't automatically negate the harassment claim against you.
So once neighbor is evicted I'll still have to go to court
Yes, ****. Even if your neighbor is evicted, you still have to attend court for the harassment charges. The eviction and harassment case are separate legal matters. Do discuss this with your public defender for a proper understanding.
Thank you
You're welcome, ****. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Remember, it's important to stay in close contact with your public defender throughout this process. They can provide the best guidance based on your specific circumstance. Good luck!
So can judge say I'm not guilty and then there'd be no trial
****, the judge can't declare you not guilty before a trial. The purpose of a trial is to determine your guilt or innocence after hearing all the evidence. If you plead not guilty, your case will likely proceed to trial. Discuss this with your public defender.
If I plead guilty for something I didn't do then I'm charged
That's correct, ****. If you plead guilty, you're admitting to the charge and likely will face penalties. However, it's crucial to discuss your plea options with your public defender before making any decisions. They can guide you based on the specifics of your case.
So what happens during trial. Who has to be at trial
During a trial, the following parties are usually present:
- The judge
- The defendant (you)
- Your legal representation (public defender)
- The plaintiff (your neighbor)
- Plaintiff's legal representation
- Witnesses, if any
- The jury, in a jury trial
It's a process where both sides present their evidence and the court makes a decision.
Neighbor belives me being charged will stop her eviction
****, your neighbor's eviction and your harassment charges are separate legal matters. Even if you're charged, it doesn't necessarily mean her eviction will be stopped. However, every case is unique and depends on the specifics. Could you provide more details about this belief?