Charges of Criminal Mischief: 3rd and 4th Degree Criminal Mischief in New Jersey

Criminal Mischief is a Serious Offense in New Jersey – If Convicted, You Could Be Sent To Prison

Criminal mischief in New Jersey is considered a Property Crime and usually involves vandalism, trespassing, or property damage. The value of the property determines the degree of the charges.

Criminal Mischief may not sound like a serious crime, but if convicted, you could be facing stiff penalties under New Jersey Law.

Disorderly Person Offense. It property damage is valued at less than $500, you can be charged with a disorderly person offense and face a up to six months in county jail.

NJ Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree. Potential prison sentence of 3 to 5 years.

NJ Criminal Mischief 4th Degree. Potential prison sentence of up to 18 months.

If you have been charged with Criminal Mischief in New Jersey, take it seriously and contact our criminal defense attorney today for a free consultation.

Stiff Penalties for Subsequent Criminal Mischief Convictions in New Jersey

If you are charged with a second or subsequent offense involving criminal mischief, the penalties are even harsher. New Jersey law states:

2C:14-6. Sentencing. If a person is convicted of a second or subsequent offense under sections 2C:14-2 or 2C:14-3a., the sentence imposed under those sections for the second or subsequent offense shall, unless the person is sentenced pursuant to the provisions of 2C:43-7, include a fixed minimum sentence of not less than 5 years during which the defendant shall not be eligible for parole. The court may not suspend or make any other non-custodial disposition of any person sentenced as a second or subsequent offender pursuant to this section. For the purpose of this section an offense is considered a second or subsequent offense, if the actor has at any time been convicted under sections 2C:14-2 or 2C:14-3a. or under any similar statute of the United States, this state, or any other state for an offense that is substantially equivalent to sections 2C:14-2 or 2C:14-3a.

Call Attorney William D. Ware, An Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Today at 908-955-7065

Free Consultation • Board Certified Criminal Defense Trial Specialist • Former Prosecutor

Our New Jersey criminal defense law firm has the experience and knowledge of the system to immediately clear up any confusion you may have about the charges and penalties you are facing. Mr. Ware will answer all of your questions to your satisfaction, especially when you may have already received conflicting information. After speaking with Mr. Ware, you will have the information you need to confidently take the next step in your case.

Attorney William D. Ware is a former Essex County prosecutor with over twenty years of criminal trial experience. Mr. Ware uses that experience to protect the rights of people charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses in New Jersey.

If you have been arrested and charged with criminal mischief, contact our firm any time of the day or night to arrange for a free consultation. Our firm will explain the charges and what you should expect as you move through the system. Most important, you will have straight answers, so you can make the right decisions. If you retain our firm to represent you, we will give you an honest evaluation of your case and an assessment of the best defenses and trial strategy possible. In all cases, Mr. Ware works aggressively to have your charges reduced or dismissed. Mr. Ware has an excellent record of successful outcomes.

From our offices in Chester, New Jersey, Mr. Ware represents clients throughout New Jersey including Morris County, Sussex County, Bergen County, Passaic County, Essex County, Union County, Hunterdon County, Warren County, Somerset County, Monmouth County and Middlesex County.