Three Strikes Laws were adopted in certain jurisdictions to protect the public from habitual offenders who repeatedly commit certain violent crimes. These law typically mandate a sentence of life imprisonment without parole for a third-time offender. In New Jersey, the crimes that constitute “strikes” include those such as murder, manslaughter,…
Sentencing Courts must carefully consider all aggravating and mitigating factors. Following a criminal defendant’s conviction or guilty plea, a judge decides the appropriate punishment at sentencing. A sentence may include incarceration, probation, fines, restitution, community service and participation in rehabilitation programs. However, there may be instances where a judge is…
A petition for compassionate release is typically granted to inmates who suffer from a terminal illness or profound incapacity that renders them physically incapable of committing a crime in the future. In New Jersey, there are specific requirements that must be met prior to a court’s consideration for compassionate release.…
Ineffective assistance of counsel is a claim that a criminal defendant may assert when their defense attorney’s inadequate representation constitutes a violation of their Sixth Amendment right to counsel. However, not all cases concerning an attorney’s unsatisfactory performance entitle a…