Harassment Defense Lawyer in Haddonfield, NJ

Being charged with harassment in New Jersey is a serious matter that can have lasting consequences for your personal life, professional reputation, and future opportunities. Whether the allegations involve text messages, phone calls, social media posts, or in-person conduct, harassment charges require aggressive legal defense from an attorney who understands New Jersey’s criminal laws and municipal court procedures.

At The Law Office of Jill R. Cohen, I provide experienced representation to clients throughout Camden County, Gloucester County, Burlington County, and South Jersey who are facing harassment charges. As a dedicated New Jersey criminal defense attorney with over 30 years of experience, I work to get charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved in ways that protect your rights and your future.

Understanding Harassment Charges in New Jersey

New Jersey law broadly defines harassment, covering conduct intended to alarm or seriously annoy another person. Harassment is typically charged as a petty disorderly persons offense, which is handled in municipal court rather than superior court.

Common harassment allegations include:

• Sending offensive or threatening communications
• Repeatedly contacting someone after being told to stop
• Making anonymous or harassing phone calls
• Sending unwanted text messages or emails
• Posting harassing content on social media
• Following or surveilling someone
• Engaging in other conduct with the purpose of harassing

Even if your intentions were misunderstood or the allegations are exaggerated, a harassment conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, professional licenses, and personal relationships.

Consequences of a Harassment Conviction

As a petty disorderly persons offense, harassment carries potential penalties including:

• Up to 30 days in jail
• Fines up to $500
• A permanent criminal record
• Restraining orders preventing contact with the alleged victim
• Damage to your reputation and relationships
• Negative impacts on employment and professional opportunities

For young adults, students, and professionals in fields that require background checks or licensure, a harassment conviction can derail career plans and limit future opportunities. Even if you avoid jail time, the criminal record follows you indefinitely unless you successfully petition for expungement years later.

Building Your Harassment Defense

Harassment charges often arise from misunderstandings, relationship conflicts, or false accusations made in anger or retaliation. Defending against these charges requires careful examination of the evidence, communications, and circumstances surrounding the allegations.

I thoroughly investigate harassment cases by:

• Reviewing all communications and evidence the state intends to use
• Identifying inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s statements
• Gathering evidence that contradicts the allegations or shows legitimate purposes for contact
• Challenging whether your conduct meets the legal definition of harassment
• Demonstrating that communications were not intended to harass or annoy
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissals

Having served as an acting Camden City Municipal Court prosecutor before entering criminal defense in 2006, I understand how prosecutors build harassment cases and what strategies effectively counter their arguments. My strong relationships with prosecutors and judges throughout New Jersey municipal courts allow me to negotiate favorable outcomes for my clients.

Protect Your Future With a Harassment Defense Attorney

Don’t let harassment allegations destroy your reputation and future. Whether the charges stem from a domestic dispute, neighbor conflict, workplace disagreement, or misunderstood communications, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights.

I offer free case evaluations to discuss the harassment charges you’re facing and your defense options. Call my Haddonfield office at 856-858-1500 or contact me online to schedule your free consultation today. Let me put my 30 years of criminal defense experience to work fighting for your rights and your future.