If you have been scheduled to appear in Freehold, New Jersey for Pre-Indictment Court or PIP court it is extremely important that you be represented by counsel that understands how this specialized court operates and whether is it a wise decision to take an initial plea deal. One of the reasons that this court was created was to screen cases and limit the caseload that ultimately is brought before the Grand Jury. Thus, a defendant must be well aware of the risks that they take if they do no plea as well as the possible benefits that could occur. For example, if someone has been arrested for a felony offense in Keansburg, Hazlet, Long Branch, Red Bank, Holmdel, Aberdeen, Little Silver, Tinton Falls, Freehold, Oceanport, Eatontown or any other municipality in Monmouth County it is a possibility that if their matter could be scheduled for PIP court. In addition, many times the Prosecutor offers disorderly persons to a defendant as way to resolve the case. It is also a possibility, if the defendant is eligible, that they can apply to Pre-Trial Intervention (known as PTI) and enter a not guilty plea, and waiver their right to go the Grand Jury. These are not simple decisions and can have serious implications down the line so it is imperative that an experienced Monmouth County criminal defense lawyer represent you if you going to PIP court.
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