Conviction of an offense that 1) involves dishonesty or 2) "involves or touches upon" your public office or employment will result in the loss of your public sector office or job.  The first situation is fairly self-evident.  Even the second one if the crime is committed during the course of your duties.  But what happens when you are accused of doing something wrong when you are not working?

For example, what about an off-duty police officer or a teacher at a family gathering?  The NJ Supreme Court has ruled that this can lead to forfeiture.  The court stated that "forfeiture for off duty misconduct ay be ordered when the infraction casts a shadow over the employee.  In effect, something that would make the person's continued public service appear to be incompatible with the traits of trustworthiness, honesty, and obedience."  The statutes state that the off-duty misconduct must have a "direct and substantial relationship to the governmental position that is subject to forfeiture.

This is very serious and not something that you want to handle yourself.  If you are so employed and are facing charges in municipal court, contact my office right away for a free consultation to determine whether you are facing forfeiture.  No one, especially in this economy, can afford to lose their job.

Have more questions about NJ traffic court?  This article not answer your question?  Get more answers here. You can also get the answers to the most frequently asked questions by downloading my free book, A Guide to Driving Legally in New Jersey and Surviving Traffic Court If You Don't.  It will give you the answers you need all in one place.  Then call me at 888-857-8418 contact me through this site for an appointment for a free consultation to discuss your case.

The Law Office of Steven J. Richardson serves New Jersey, including:  Gloucester, Camden, Burlington, Salem, Cumberland and Atlantic Counties and surrounding New Jersey communities, including Woodbury, Colonial Manor, North Woodbury, Woodbury Heights, Deptford, Thorofare, Gloucester City, Washington Township, Blackwood, Brooklawn, Westville and Pitman.

Richardson Law Offices
40 Newton Avenue
Woodbury, NJ 08096
Phone: (856) 686-9910
Fax: (856) 686-9911