Penalties for Juvenile Criminal Mischief in New Jersey

Criminal mischief is a phrase used to describe an act of misbehavior, disruption, disobedience, and waywardness. Examples of juvenile criminal mischief include damaging public or private property, graffiti, or setting a small fire. While these types of charges are not considered serious, they can result in harsh penalties. Parents of a juvenile facing criminal mischief charges in New Jersey would be well advised to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect their child's best interests.

Criminal mischief in New Jersey occurs when a juvenile "purposely or knowingly damages tangible property of another or damages tangible property of another recklessly or negligently in the employment of fire, explosives, or other dangerous means," or "purposely, knowingly, or recklessly tampers with tangible property of another so as to endanger person or property, including the damaging or destroying of a rental premises by a tenant in retaliation for institution of eviction proceedings."

There is a wide range of penalties that juveniles could face for criminal mischief. In New Jersey, one of the most important factors in determining the severity of the penalties is the amount of damages caused. If the property damages are valued at less than $500, the charges could be a disorderly persons offense that will likely result in restitution, counseling, probation, and the threat of incarceration in a detention facility. If the property damage is extensive, the juvenile is likely to face harsher penalties.

If you would like to speak with an experienced attorney, please contact the Ibrahim Law Group at (201) 781-7800 to arrange a free consultation. We defend individuals throughout NJ, including Passaic County, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Bergen County, Morris County and Jersey City.