Individuals with a warrant for their arrest following a non-violent incident in New Jersey will have an opportunity to surrender themselves to the authorities to have their case resolved quickly. According to a news report in The Associated Press, the four-day program is expected to take place on April 21 and then from April 23 to April 25 at Grace Assembly of God Church in Atlantic City. Officials say the program is for those accused of committing non-violent crimes or disorderly person offenses including child support and family matters.
This is not an amnesty program and individuals will not automatically avoid jail time. Individuals who do surrender, however, may have their fines reduced and their case will be promptly adjudicated at temporary courtrooms in the area.
If there is a warrant for your arrest in New Jersey, it may be in your best interest to discuss your situation with a skilled criminal defense lawyer before turning yourself in. You could be arrested and you will likely face additional penalties for failing to turn yourself in, but you may want to discuss your legal options before taking the matter into your own hands.
Individuals who have a warrant for their arrest are not obligated to make any statements to the police, the judge, or the prosecution. You should speak to an attorney even if you believe that what you would say could help your case. Anything you say can be used against you and an attorney will help make sure that your rights are protected.
The NJ criminal defense lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein have a proven track record of helping individuals with a warrant for their arrest to avoid jail time.