What to Expect When You Go to Court
For many clients, one of the most intimidating aspects of a criminal case is having to go to court. At the Iler Law Firm, we are committed to providing our clients with the experienced advocacy, counsel and support they need to make a successful court appearance.
We offer free consultations 24 hours a day. Call 732-842-7787 or 866-403-2722, or you can contact us by e-mail to protect your rights.
If you are going to court:
- Dress nicely
- Be respectful to court staff
- Be prepared by consulting with an experienced attorney
Consult with an attorney before heading to court
Before your appearance, our attorneys will review the criminal legal process with you and give you the right information so that you know what to expect before you enter the courtroom.
During the criminal legal process, which can include status conferences, Pre-Indictment Conferences (PIC), arraignment, pre- and post-indictment and the potential negotiation of a plea deal, we will offer our advice, and collaborate with you to make a decision whether or not you should accept the plea deal or go to trial. If you decide to accept the plea deal, you will go on record before the judge, pay fines and court costs and resolve your case. If you decide to go to trial, a trial date will be set and our attorneys will begin trial preparation.
New Jersey Municipal Courts
Depending on the charges you face, you will encounter a variety of settings. If you are facing a DWI, traffic ticket or other municipal court charge, you will be in a local municipal court. Most citizens of New Jersey will come into contact with the judicial system through the municipal courts. Municipal courts will handle traffic offenses, DWI, simple theft and fraud offenses, and other offenses that occur under the jurisdiction of the municipality. Whether you are a defendant, witness or victim entering court it is important to understand your role, rights, and obligations as you enter the municipal or the New Jersey Superior Courts system.
New Jersey Superior Courts
If you're facing Superior Court, indictable offenses, and the potential of significant jail time, you may face a very different experience in a New Jersey Superior Court. At the County level, navigating the court system can be complicated and extensive. You may face grand jury proceedings that result in indictment. Our attorneys will represent your interests from your arrest through arraignment, possibly negotiate a plea deal and seek diversionary programs and other pre-trial intervention options to protect your rights. In some cases, we are able to see charges completely dismissed. If a plea bargain is not in your best interest or if you are not eligible for pre-trial intervention or diversionary programs, we will discuss going to trial, preparing you for all potential outcomes and consequences.
If you have been charged with a crime, you can talk to a Monmouth County defense lawyer 24 hours a day by calling 732-842-7787 or 866-403-2722, or you can contact us by e-mail for a free initial consultation.
