False Police Report Charge Attorney in Elizabeth, New Jersey

Being accused of filing a false police report in New Jersey can be a frightening experience. The potential consequences, including fines and even jail time, can significantly impact your life. If you’re facing such charges, the experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorneys at Brett M. Rosen, Esq. can help. If you’re facing charges for filing a false police report in New Jersey, securing the services of a seasoned criminal defense attorney like Brett M. Rosen is a wise decision. He is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Criminal Trial Attorney recognized and a proven track record of successful outcomes, Mr. Rosen’s strategic defense techniques are tailored to resonate with judges and juries alike. His 24/7 availability ensures that your urgent legal needs are addressed promptly. Choosing Brett M. Rosen means opting for a meticulous, assertive approach to your defense, potentially leading to reduced charges or even dismissal. Remember, the right legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case, whether it is a false police report, domestic violence, or harassment, making Brett M. Rosen an excellent choice for your defense in New Jersey.

Contact our office today for a consultation, or continue reading this page provides which provides a comprehensive overview of New Jersey’s false police report law and your rights.

What is Filing a False Police Report in New Jersey?

N.J.S.A. 2C:28-4 defines filing a false police report as knowingly giving false information to a law enforcement officer with the intent to:

• Report a crime that never happened
• Implicate someone else in a crime they didn’t commit

This can be done verbally, in writing, or electronically. The key element is the deliberate act of providing false information and the intent to mislead law enforcement. Specifically, the law states that filing a false police report is divided up into a couple different categories: 

• Falsely incriminating another: A person who knowingly gives or causes to be given false information to any law enforcement officer with purpose to implicate another commits a crime of the third degree, except the offense is a crime of the second degree if the false information which the actor gave or caused to be given would implicate the person in a crime of the first or second degree.
• Fictitious reports: A person commits a crime of the fourth degree if he:
  • Reports or causes to be reported to law enforcement authorities an offense or other incident within their concern knowing that it did not occur; or
  • Pretends to furnish or causes to be furnished such authorities with information relating to an offense or incident when he knows he has no information relating to such offense or incident.

The Graduated Penalties of Filing a False Police Report in New Jersey

The severity of the offense and potential penalties depend on the impact of the false report:

• Disorderly Persons Offense: This is the least serious charge, usually involving a first offense with no significant disruption. Penalties include fines of up to $1,000 and potential community service.
• Fourth-Degree Crime: This applies if the false report involved a fictious report. Penalties include up to 18 months in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
• Third-Degree Crime: This applies when a person gives false information to law enforcement to implicate another person on a crime they did not commit. Penalties include up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $15,000.
• Second-Degree Crime: This is similar to a third-degree but differs in that the false information given to implicate another was for a crime of first or second degree crime. For example, if Joe Doe reported to authorities that Jane Doe committed robbery, knowing that she did not, this would make the false report charge rise to a second degree since a robbery charge is a second degree. Penalties include up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000. 

Facing Charges for Filing a False Police Report? We Can Help.

Our New Jersey criminal defense firm at Brett M. Rosen, Esq. understands the complexities of these cases and can help you navigate the legal system:

• Analyze the Details: We’ll meticulously examine the circumstances surrounding your report, including your intent and the nature of the alleged false information.
• Explore Defenses: Depending on the specifics, potential defenses might include lack of knowledge, mistaken belief, or insufficient evidence.
• Fight for the Best Outcome: Our goal is to achieve the best possible result, which could include dismissal of charges, reduced charges, or participation in a pre-trial intervention program.

New Jersey False Police Report Defenses: Protecting Yourself from Unfair Charges

Being accused of filing a false police report in New Jersey can be stressful and confusing. The potential penalties, including fines and even jail time, necessitate a strong defense strategy. The experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorneys at Brett M. Rosen, Esq. understand the complexities of these cases. Here, we explore some common defenses used to fight charges of filing a false police report:

1. Lack of Knowledge:

The prosecution must prove you knowingly provided false information. If you genuinely believed a crime occurred, this defense can be effective. Our attorneys will analyze the circumstances surrounding your report and your intent.

2. Mistaken Belief:

Perhaps you misinterpreted a situation and reported in good faith. For example, a loud bang could be mistaken for gunfire. Our legal team will assess the details of the incident and your actions to build a strong argument for a mistaken belief.

3. Insufficient Evidence:

The prosecution needs solid evidence to prove your intent and the falsity of the report. Our attorneys will meticulously examine the evidence presented by the State, including witness statements and police reports, to identify any inconsistencies or weaknesses that could lead to dismissal of charges.

4. Duress or Coercion:

Someone might have forced you to file a false report. This is a rare defense, but our attorneys will investigate the circumstances to determine if it applies to your case.

5. Reporting a Suspicious Activity:

While not an absolute defense, you might have reported a situation that seemed suspicious but didn’t turn out to be a real crime. Our attorneys can argue that your actions were reasonable based on the information available at the time.

6. Right to Report:

New Jersey residents have a right to report suspicious activity to law enforcement. Our legal team will analyze if your report, even if mistaken, falls under this right.

7. Procedural Errors:

Law enforcement might violate your rights during the investigation or arrest. Our attorneys will ensure your constitutional rights were upheld throughout the legal process. Any procedural errors could lead to suppression of evidence or dismissal of charges.

Remember: These are just some potential defenses. The best course of action is to contact our experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorneys at [Law Firm Name] as soon as possible. We will assess the specifics of your case, develop a tailored defense strategy, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Don’t Take a Risk. Contact Brett M. Rosen, Esq. Today for a Free Consultation

The consequences of a false police report conviction can be lasting. Our knowledgeable and aggressive defense team is here to protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case in detail.

New Jersey False Police Report: FAQs and Protecting Yourself

Being accused of filing a false police report in New Jersey can be a frightening experience. Understanding the charges and your options is crucial. Here, the experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorneys at Brett M. Rosen, Esq. answer some frequently asked questions regarding filing a false police report:

1. What is filing a false police report in New Jersey?

It’s knowingly providing false information to law enforcement with the intent to report a non-existent crime or implicate someone else in a crime that didn’t happen (N.J.S.A. 2C:28-4). This can be done verbally, in writing, or electronically.

2. What are the penalties for filing a false police report in New Jersey?

The severity depends on the impact:

• Disorderly Persons Offense: Penalties include fines up to $1,000 and potential community service.
• Fourth-Degree Crime: Penalties include up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• Third-Degree Crime: Penalties include up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $15,000. 
• Second-Degree Crime: Penalties include up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000. 

3. I accidentally gave wrong information. Can I be charged?

Unintentional mistakes generally don’t result in charges. However, if your recklessness or negligence caused the false report (e.g., filing based on a rumor), you could face charges.

4. What if I reported something suspicious that turned out to be nothing?

New Jersey residents have a right to report suspicious activity. Our attorneys can assess if your actions were reasonable based on the information available at the time.

5. What are some defenses for filing a false police report?

Here are some potential defenses:

• Lack of knowledge: You genuinely believed a crime occurred.
• Mistaken belief: You misinterpreted a situation and reported in good faith.
• Insufficient evidence: The prosecution lacks proof of your intent or the falsity of the information.
• Duress or coercion: Someone forced you to file the report (rare defense).

6. I was falsely accused of filing a false report. What should I do?

Contact a qualified New Jersey criminal defense attorney immediately. Our legal team will investigate the details of your case and explore potential defenses.

Protecting Your Rights and Promoting Public Safety

Rosen understands the importance of public safety. However, he also recognizes that mistakes happen and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Top-Shelf New Jersey False Report Charge Lawyer