Victims and Sentencing in NJ Criminal Cases
Criminal Defense Sentencing Lawyer in Passaic County, New Jersey
Alissa Hascup represents clients throughout New Jersey, including in Passaic County, Morris County, Essex County, and Bergen County, who have been charged with criminal offenses such as kidnapping, aggravated assault, terroristic threats, and resisting arrest.
The consequences of a criminal conviction in New Jersey can be severe. It is critical for you to have an experienced attorney represent you at all stages of the proceeding, including Sentencing, and argue aggressively for the best possible result. Contact Alissa Hascup anytime for an initial consultation, which is always provided free of charge.
Victims & Sentencing in New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 52:4B-36
The Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights has been codified under N.J.S.A. 52:4B-36. It mandates that the victims of crime in the State of New Jersey have certain rights. Included among those rights are:
- The right to be compensated for a loss;
- The right to be advised of case progress and final disposition;
- The right to submit a written statement about the impact of the crime to a representative of the County Prosecutor’s Office; and
- The right to make, prior to sentencing, an in-person statement directly to the Sentencing Court concerning the impact of the crime.
How will this impact your case
The victim will likely be contacted by the County Prosecutor’s Office during the pendency of the case and his/her input will be requested regarding plea offers and sentencing recommendations. The victim will likely be advised of all scheduled court proceedings and has a right to be present. The victim will be invited to speak at sentencing, or submit a written statement to be read at the time of sentencing.
How will this impact you
The Sentencing Court will consider the concerns of the victim and/or the victim’s family, but the Court can not and will not impinge on the defendant’s constitutional rights. State v. Means, 191 N.J. 610, 620 (2007).
When the balance of competing interests between the crime victim and the defendant is struck, the greatest protection goes to the criminal defendant whose liberty is at stake. State v. Moore, 188 N.J. 182, 211 n.13 (2006).
Contact a Passaic County NJ Criminal Sentencing Defense Lawyer Now
If you find yourself in a situation where you or a loved one have been charged with a crime, a conviction may have serious consequences. Don’t underestimate the impact that the right defense attorney can have on your case. Alissa Hascup understands the importance of limiting your exposure to the greatest extent possible. She is prepared to use her extensive experience and knowledge of the law to your advantage.
Contact Alissa Hascup now for your free initial consultation. Call 862-257-1200 or fill out the online contact form to arrange a meeting at the office location nearest you.
