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New Jersey Harassment Lawyer
In New Jersey, harassment is defined as any actions taken by an individual or group that are intended to threaten, intimidate, or coerce another person. Harassment can sound simple in theory, but the reality is that many people don’t understand what criminal harassment is under the law. Because of this, many individuals might not know what kind of behavior can lead to a harassment charge.
While it is understandable to feel outraged about receiving harassment charges, it may not be a good idea to seek out the person you believe filed the charges against you. Before you make any decisions, it is important to consult an experienced New Jersey harassment lawyer who can help you understand the legal implications of your charges.
At Lustberg Law Offices, LLC, attorney Adam Lustberg and our team of New Jersey harassment lawyers provide legal representation to individuals facing harassment charges in Bergen County, Essex County, Passaic County, and Hudson County, New Jersey.
Contact us today at (201) 880-5311 to learn more about how we can help you with your case.
We have years of experience in courts through NJ and NY and a proven track record of success in criminal cases.
The New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4 states that a person is found guilty of harassment if he or she:
Harassment is considered a petty disorderly persons offense in New Jersey and is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
If the person who initiates the harassment was in prison, on parole, or on probation at the time when the harassment happened, charges can be raised to a fourth-degree offense. The defendant may be subject to 18 months in a New Jersey state prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
A conviction of harassment can appear on your criminal record and background checks. Even though harassment is considered a low-level offense under the New Jersey criminal code, it can still have long-lasting implications on your personal and professional life. Having a conviction on your criminal record may invite unwanted attention, ruin your potential career opportunities, and cause emotional stress for you and your family. If you have been charged with harassment in New Jersey, you don’t have to face them alone.
It is important to seek the help of an experienced New Jersey harassment lawyer who can assist you in building a strong legal defense strategy. At Lustberg Law Offices, LLC, we provide aggressive legal representation to protect our clients’ best interests. Attorney Adam Lustberg and our team of skilled New Jersey harassment attorneys work diligently to exhaust all avenues of action to achieve the best possible outcome for each case.
Call us at (201) 880-5311 today or fill out our online form to schedule a complimentary consultation in New Jersey.
Adam M. Lustberg is a seasoned New Jersey attorney who has dedicated his career to protecting the rights of individuals accused of serious offenses — including harassment, assault, and other criminal charges. His passion for criminal defense began while interning at the Essex County Public Defender’s Office during his first year at Seton Hall University School of Law. Through Seton Hall’s Juvenile Justice Clinic, he represented numerous juveniles, gaining early courtroom experience that would shape his approach to advocacy. Since then, Mr. Lustberg has represented clients at every stage of the criminal justice process, from arraignment to trial, and has argued in over 30 detention hearings under New Jersey’s criminal justice reform system.
A graduate of Seton Hall University School of Law (2004), Mr. Lustberg is admitted to practice in both New Jersey and New York. Over his distinguished career, he has successfully defended clients against charges ranging from harassment and domestic disputes to homicide and firearms offenses. Recognized by Avvo (10/10 rating), SuperLawyers – Rising Stars, Bergen’s Best Lawyers, and The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, Mr. Lustberg’s commitment to meticulous preparation and relentless advocacy has earned him a reputation as one of the top defense lawyers in the region. When your reputation, career, and freedom are on the line, Adam M. Lustberg provides the steadfast defense you deserve.
Cyber-harassment carries its own definition under New Jersey law. It involves sending communication in an online capacity, via an electronic device, or through a social networking site, with the intent to harass another person. A person is guilty of harassment in New Jersey if he or she:
Cyber harassment is a fourth-degree crime.
If the parent or guardian of a minor fails to comply with the above conditions, the parent or guardian will be declared a disorderly person and subject to a fine of $100 for the first offense and up to $500 for each subsequent offense thereafter.
A parent or guardian who demonstrates a willful disregard for supervision and control of a minor adjudicated delinquent of cyber-harassment may also be subject to civil penalties in New Jersey.
If you or a minor in your care are facing charges of cyber-harassment in New Jersey, you need to act quickly. A conviction for cyber-harassment on your criminal record can greatly impact a person’s career opportunities, education, personal relationships, and reputation. Our team of experienced New Jersey harassment attorneys at Lustberg Law Offices, LLC is dedicated to providing quality legal counsel and representation. Attorney Adam M. Lustberg has helped many individuals and families in New Jersey defend their rights under the law.
Call us at (201) 880-5311 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.
Harassment in New Jersey can take many forms, but generally speaking, it is any type of unwanted or offensive conduct that singles out a person or group and causes them to fear or harm. Cases of harassment in New Jersey need to be dealt with with a sensitive and evidence-based approach.
Often, harassment is the result of an argument, a disagreement, or a deterioration of relationships between two or more parties. Intent and purpose are also important factors the prosecution must establish in any harassment case. As a rule, the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant initiated communication with the express purpose of harassing a person. The use of profanity does not immediately make a person guilty of harassment. The prosecution must also prove that the communication and conduct of the defendant were aimed to “disturb, irritate, or bother” the victim.
New Jersey harassment acts can have a lot of variables and no two cases are exactly the same. However, there are elements that the prosecution will always take into consideration when determining guilt. Elements like the gender, age, race, religion, and occupation of both parties can factor heavily when establishing the grounds of whether harassment did in fact take place.
It is also crucial to note that while harassment charges can stand alone, additional charges like assault and domestic violence can also be attached to the original charges. Hiring an attorney who has dedicated their practice to criminal defense cases can help negotiate a better outcome for your case.
It is important to seek out the help of a qualified New Jersey harassment lawyer who can help you navigate the complicated criminal justice system. An attorney can guide you through the specifics of your charges. At Lustberg Law Offices, LLC, we can help identify whether there are grounds for harassment to facilitate the dismissal of your charges. New Jersey attorney Adam M. Lustberg and our team of experienced attorneys are also prepared to go to trial and aggressively represent your best interests if necessary.
| Defense Type | Key Element | Example |
|---|---|---|
| First Amendment / Free Speech | Determines if the communication is protected or considered a true threat | A rude but non-threatening statement made in frustration may be protected |
| Lack of Intent | Focuses on whether the defendant intended to harass or alarm | A misunderstood joke or accidental contact without intent to annoy |
| Self-Defense | Examines whether actions were taken in response to a perceived threat | Reacting defensively when feeling endangered during an argument |
| Consent | Considers if the alleged victim agreed to or welcomed the conduct | Both parties exchanging playful or mutual messages |
| False Accusation | Challenges the truthfulness or motive of the accusation | Evidence shows the claim was made out of anger or revenge |
Facing a harassment charge in New Jersey can be stressful, but several legal defenses may apply depending on the facts of the case. Each defense focuses on the specific actions and intent of the accused, as well as the circumstances surrounding the alleged behavior.
One common defense involves First Amendment rights. While freedom of speech is protected, this protection has limits. Statements that include true threats, intimidation, or conduct meant to alarm someone are not protected. However, if the communication was merely an expression of opinion or a non-threatening comment, it may fall under free speech protection.
Another key defense is the lack of intent. To convict someone of harassment, prosecutors must prove that the person intended to harass, alarm, or annoy the alleged victim. If the behavior was accidental, misinterpreted, or lacked intent to cause distress, the charge may not hold up in court.
Self-defense may also apply when a person’s actions were a response to feeling threatened or endangered. If it can be shown that the accused acted to protect themselves and responded reasonably to the situation, this can serve as a valid defense.
In some cases, consent plays an important role. If the alleged victim willingly engaged in or agreed to the conduct, it may undermine the claim that the behavior was unwanted or harassing.
Lastly, false accusations are a serious issue. If the harassment claim was fabricated or motivated by anger, revenge, or misunderstanding, the defense can challenge the credibility of the evidence and witnesses. Supporting proof, such as messages, witnesses, or timelines, can help show the truth.
Each defense depends on the facts of the case, and understanding these options is vital when addressing harassment charges in New Jersey. A skilled New Jersey harassment lawyer can evaluate the details of your situation, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build a defense tailored to your circumstances. Having experienced legal guidance can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.
Unjust charges of harassment can have lasting implications for the wrongfully accused. Before you make any decisions, seek the help of a skilled New Jersey harassment lawyer. An attorney can help you understand the charges you are facing and provide you with legal options.
At Lustberg Law Offices, LLC, our team of New Jersey criminal defense attorneys has helped defend the rights of residents in Bergen County and Hackensack. New Jersey attorney Adam M. Lustberg has provided aggressive legal representation for individuals charged with criminal offenses. We understand the impact a conviction can have on a person’s life.
Schedule a free consultation with attorney Adam M. Lustberg today.
Call us at (201) 880-5311 or fill out our online form.
