What is a High-Level Crime?

In most states, crimes are classified as misdemeanors and felonies. In New Jersey, the classification is a little different. Crimes are defined by degrees.

NJ Rev Stat § 2C:43-1 outlines the degrees of crimes in New Jersey. There are first, second, third, and fourth-degree crimes. First-degree crimes are the most serious, while fourth-degree crimes are the least serious. However, all are offenses that are equivalent to felonies.

Generally, high-level crimes refer to first-degree and second-degree crimes, as these are the most serious. These are often classified as violent crimes, as they are crimes that harm people. A violent crime is one that uses violence or threatens to use violence. A violent crime can or does cause serious injury or death.

Examples of High-Level Crimes

High-level crimes are the most serious offenses. Some examples include the following:

• Murder
• Attempted murder
• Manslaughter
• Aggravated assault
• Armed robbery
• Kidnapping
• Serious sex crimes such as rape
• Vehicular homicide

Second-degree crimes may include the following:

• Sexual assault
• Aggravated arson
• Unlawful possession of a firearm
• Robbery without a weapon
• Drug crimes, particularly drug trafficking

Third-degree crimes may be considered high-level offenses as well, since they are still felonies.

Some examples include:

• Possession of hard drugs like cocaine or heroin.
• Possession of a handgun.
• Aggravated assault.
• Theft.
• Terroristic threats.
• Prescription drug fraud.

Fourth-degree crimes are not as serious, but they can still be felonies. Some examples include:

• Possession of controlled dangerous substances, which includes drugs like marijuana, cocaine, or prescription medications, without a valid prescription.
• Forgery.
• Shoplifting.
• Distribution of marijuana (less than one ounce).
• Distribution of drug paraphernalia.
• Criminal mischief (causing damage between $500 and $2,000).
• Stalking.
• Violation of a restraining order.

Penalties

High-level crimes come with the most severe penalties. Lengthy prison terms and hefty fines are involved. Here is a look at the penalties involved:

• First-degree crime: 10 to 20 years in prison and $200,000 in fines
• Second-degree crime: 5 to 10 years in prison and $150,000 in fines
• Third-degree crime: 3 to 5 years in prison and $15,000 in fines
• Fourth-degree crime: Up to 18 months in prison and $10,000 in fines

As you can see, high-level crimes are punished severely. In extreme cases, like murder, you may face life in prison without parole. It is crucial that you hire a lawyer to help defend your case.

Contact Us Today

High-level crimes are serious offenses. If you have been accused of one, you need to act quickly to protect yourself.

High-level crimes can lead to long-term consequences. Protect yourself by calling The Law Offices of Christopher St. John. Christopher St. John is a Cherry Hill criminal defense lawyer who is also a former homicide prosecutor and deputy attorney general. We boast extensive experience in successfully litigating numerous cases. Schedule a consultation today by calling (856) 716-5427 or filling out the online form.