The Law Offices of

Jonathan F. Marshall

(856) 662-8300

Cherry Hill, NJ

(856) 288-3350

Camden, NJ

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Legal News

Potential Changes Coming for New Jersey’s Bail System

Possible Changes to Bail System
Possible Changes to Bail System

As the legislative session approaches its close, members of the New Jersey Legislature are eagerly attempting to garner support for two significant bail reform measures that would fundamentally transform the State’s current bail system.

With the pending deadline of August 4th fast approaching, lawmakers must pass a resolution that calls for an amendment to New Jersey’s Constitution, in order for voters to decide on said legislation in November. The amendment (SCR128), which is supported by Governor Chris Christie, would permit judges to deny bail to defendants who meet specific criteria. Justifications for such denials may include: if the defendant is deemed a threat to public safety, identified as a potential flight risk, or considered likely to commit obstruction of justice upon release.

Members of the Democratic Party, which maintains the current majority, are seeking to pass an accompanying measure–bill S946. If this measure is ultimately passed into law, defendants facing charges for less serious crimes who are financially unable to meet bail requirements would be offered non-monetary conditions with which they would be required to comply prior to appearing in court.

The non-monetary conditions comprised in S946 include: avoiding contact with the alleged victim and any potential witnesses related to the case, being released to the custody of a court-approved supervisor, maintaining employment (or seeking it, if unemployed), enrolling in or continuing an educational program, regularly reporting to a law enforcement agency or pretrial services program, entering a drug or alcohol rehabilitation treatment center, or wearing an electronic monitoring device.

Although the State Senate is expected to vote on the aforementioned measures in a session to be held on Thursday, July 31st, such a date has yet to be scheduled in the Assembly. Assembly members have assured the public that they are diligently working to address these matters before the close of this legislative session; however, concerns raised by the legislative black caucus represent additional impediments to be overcome if citizens are to have the opportunity to vote on the matters in November.

If proceedings continue and voters eventually approve this legislation, the dramatic changes to New Jersey’s bail system would not be implemented until 2017. Notwithstanding the time frame, these reforms would drastically alter the way in which the State approaches bail determinations, allowing for unprecedented judicial discretion, a specific assessment of the defendant in each case, and a tailored approach to the conditions imposed to ensure his or her appearance in court.

For more information pertaining to this matter, access the following article: “With deadline approaching, Assembly leaders scramble for votes to get bail changes on the ballot.”

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For the past 20 years, Mr. Marshall has provided his clients with excellent legal counsel in a broad variety of criminal matters. From straightforward issues to serious litigation, he offers you the experience and confidential advice you need to maneuver through the laws of Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

When you’ve been accused of a crime, you are entitled to a thorough and competent criminal defense. Jonathan F. Marshall ensures your legal rights are upheld. Allow our team to assist you during this difficult time.

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The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall

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Burlington County, Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Pemberton Twp. Camden County, Camden City, Cherry Hill Twp., Gloucester City, Gloucester Twp., Pennsauken, Winslow Twp. Gloucester County, Deptford Twp., Monroe Twp., Paulsboro Boro, Washington Twp., West Deptford Twp., Woodbury City, Bordentown Twp., Cinnaminson, Evesham Twp., Mansfield Twp., Maple Shade Twp., Medford Twp., Moorestown Twp., Palmyra Boro, Bellmawr, Clementon, Collingswood, Haddon Twp., Lindenwold, Pine Hill Boro, Stratford Boro, Voorhees Twp., Waterford Twp., Elk Joint Municipal Court, Franklin Joint Mun Ct, Greenwich Twp, Mantua Twp.

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Camden Location

121 Market Street Suite 201

Camden, NJ

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Cherry Hill Location

23 Haddonfield Rd, 3rd Floor, Building B2

Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

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