Disorderly and Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses

In New Jersey, we do not have “misdemeanors”, but we do have disorderly persons offenses. Common disorderly persons offenses include simple assault - N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1a, lewdness - N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4, criminal trespass – N.J.S.A. 2C:18-3, shoplifting – N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11, obstruction of law – N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1, loitering for the purpose of obtaining illegal drugs – N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2.1, harassment – N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4, and providing alcohol to a minor – N.J.S.A. 2C:33-17. A lower degree of offenses, called petty disorderly persons offenses include disorderly conduct – N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2. The penalties for disorderly conduct include a fine of up to $1,000.00, jail for up to six months, and probation and community service in the court’s discretion. Penalties for petty disorderly persons offenses are fines of up to $500.00, jail for up to 30 days, and probation and community service in the court’s discretion.