Client Charged with Possession of Mace in Essex County Domestic Violence Case
Newark Weapons & Assault Charges Downgraded and Dismissed
Have you been charged with possession of a weapon during an alleged domestic violence incident in Essex County or elsewhere in New Jersey? We can help. Here is a case our attorneys successfully handled in which the assault and weapons charges were completely dismissed for a very satisfied client. At the Tormey Law Firm, our domestic violence defense lawyers have literally handled thousands of cases like these over the last 15 years with tremendous results. Contact us anytime for immediate assistance and a free initial consultation at 908-336-5008.
Felony Domestic Violence Assault and Weapons Charges – Essex County Court
Our client was a 22-year old female with no prior criminal history. She was in an argument with her boyfriend where she feared for her safety so she allegedly used mace against him. She was arrested and charged with three counts, one for third degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, one for fourth degree unlawful disposition of a weapon, and one for simple assault, a disorderly persons (misdemeanor) offense. She was facing 3-5 years in prison on the third degree charge, 18 months in prison on the 4th degree charge, and up to six (6) months in the Essex County jail on the disorderly persons offense.
Because these are indictable (felony) level offenses in NJ, the case was handled in the Essex County Superior Court in Newark and prosecuted by the Essex County Prosecutor’s office. We were able to receive all of the discovery evidence in the case and review the facts and reports with our client before discussing the case with the Essex County assistant prosecutor assigned to this matter from the Domestic Violence Unit.
First, we appeared in Essex County Superior Court and were able to get the felony charges downgraded back to the Newark Municipal Court as misdemeanor level (disorderly person) offenses. This was a great first step because instead of facing multiple felony charges and years in state prison, our client’s exposure was now only three disorderly persons offenses and no prison time.
Then, we appeared in Newark Municipal Court and the alleged victim failed to appear. Based on the lack of evidence and that the victim was not present in court to testify against our client and prove the case, the charges were completely dismissed. She has no criminal record from this event. We also assisted her in filing an expungement to remove this arrest from her record as well. This was a tremendous result for our client and the Tormey Law Firm LLC.
Need Help with a Domestic Violence Weapons Offense in Essex County NJ?
If you or a loved one has been arrested for possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, assault, or another domestic violence related offense in Essex County, contact our local Newark offices anytime for a free consultation. An experienced attorney on our team is available to discuss your charges and your options.