M–W: 8:30–4:30
Thurs: 8:30–7:30
Fri: 8:30–12:30
910 Oceanport Way
PO Box 370
Oceanport, NJ 07757
When you plead guilty, it is not necessary to have a trial. You have admitted that you have violated the law. However, you may then explain to the Judge any extenuating circumstances. The Judge will then impose sentence.
If you plead not guilty, you and the witnesses will be placed under oath to speak the truth. It is necessary for the prosecution to prove the charges against you. Your attorney has the right to ask the prosecution’s witness any question pertaining to the charges. If you do not have an attorney, present your questions for the witness to the Judge or you may ask permissible questions of the witnesses.
When the prosecution has finished, you may then present your own witnesses or testify on your own behalf. You are not forced to testify against yourself, but you may testify if you desire. Any evidence you give may be used by either side. If you do testify, the prosecution has the right to ask you any questions pertaining to the charges.
When all witnesses have testified, you or your attorney may tell the court why you think you should be found not guilty.
If the court finds you guilty, and you feel the judgment or the sentence was in error, you have twenty (20) days within which to appeal. Appeals in practically all instances will be heard by the Superior Court, Law Division. You can contact this court for the Pro Se package “How to Appeal a Decision of a Municipal Court” or go to www.njcourtsonline.com.