What Court Handles What?
There are so many different types of courts in the United States legal system; it is one of the factors that makes our country so unique and successful. Different systems are used to differentiate between types of legal matters, and the areas in which they are applicable.
If you’ve been charged with a crime or disorderly persons offense, it’s important to understand more about the system in which you will be tried, and it’s good to know for general citizens as well! Here is a quick overview about the different types of courts in New Jersey and the cases that they handle.
NJ Supreme Court
This is the highest court of the state, and reviews cases that had been first decided in the lower courts. They have a direct impact on the application and interpretation of laws which already exist, with the power to set precedent and to overturn rulings from the lower courts which may have been incorrectly applied.
Superior Court
This court rules judgement on what are known as felonies in other jurisdictions, and called ‘indictable crimes’ here in NJ. These cases often include the more serious crimes, including aggravated assault and homicide.
Superior Court, Appellate Division
If there is an appeal coming from a lower court, the appellate division will consider whether or not the original decision should be reversed. This includes appeals to overturn a criminal conviction.
Municipal Court
These cover disorderly persons and petty disorderly persons offenses, including cases of disorderly conduct, possession of a fake ID, simple assault, resisting arrest, harassment, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana, shoplifting under $200, and the underage possession of alcohol. These are seen as the least serious crimes, but can still carry steep penalties with them if convicted.
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, it is likely that you will need to have your case handled in the municipal court or superior court by a professional lawyer. With an experienced attorney on your side, you will be granted the utmost protection under the law.
If the case goes in a way which you believe was unfair or unjust under the law, there is also the possibility for your case to be moved to the Superior Court, appellate division or even to the NJ Supreme Court depending on the case and the circumstances which surround it.
For a consultation about the legal services which we offer here at Borrus, Goldin, Foley, Vignuolo, Hyman and Stahl, PC, contact me, attorneys today. I can be reached at our phone’s main line at 732-422-1000 and would be happy to answer and of your questions regarding our 50 plus years of legal services in Central New Jersey. We can offer representation in a wide range of areas through specialized service, in all of the above court jurisdictions.
