“What are the consequences for terroristic threats charges in New Jersey?”

New Jersey treats terroristic threats charges very serious. As a third degree offense, it means you are exposed to 3-5 years in prison and fines of up to $15,000.  Terroristic threats is a fairly common offense issued in New Jersey as it often arises out of a domestic or other sort of argument that escalated. In fact, terroristic threats may be accompanied by other charges such as aggravated assault, simple assault, disorderly conduct, or harassment.

It is likely that your case involves your word against another. If that is the case, it is difficult for the state to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. If your threat has been recorded or is in writing (via text, email, etc.) there are still various possible defenses and diversionary programs at our disposable.

McGuckin Law is an NJ criminal defense law firm with locations in Toms River and Edison and has handled a wide array of terroristic threats and related charges over the years. charges for many years. If you or a loved one are facing terroristic threats charges, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation at 732.924.4200.

Terroristic Threats N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3

a. A person is guilty of a crime of the third degree if he threatens to commit any crime of violence with the purpose to terrorize another or to cause evacuation of a building, place of assembly, or facility of public transportation, or otherwise to cause serious public inconvenience, or in reckless disregard of the risk of causing such terror or inconvenience. A violation of this subsection is a crime of the second degree if it occurs during a declared period of national, State or county emergency. The actor shall be strictly liable upon proof that the crime occurred, in fact, during a declared period of national, State or county emergency. It shall not be a defense that the actor did not know that there was a declared period of emergency at the time the crime occurred.

b. A person is guilty of a crime of the third degree if he threatens to kill another with the purpose to put him in imminent fear of death under circumstances reasonably causing the victim to believe the immediacy of the threat and the likelihood that it will be carried out.

Understanding Your Terroristic Threats Charge

As you can see, subsection A regards public safety – bomb threats, public turmoil, etc. While these cases occur, subsection B charges are far more commonplace. These often arise out of domestic situations, bar fights, and other circumstances during which tempers flare and one person allegedly utters the words, “I will kill you,” “I will hurt you,” or “I will harm your loved one.”

The state will seek to 1. prove that the utterance involved the threat of injury or death, 2. might actually be carried out, and 3. that it with the intent to cause fear of the stated act. A death threat in the middle of fight is different than a joking threat made between friends playing poker.

NJ Terroristic Threats Defenses

McGuckin Law will analyze the facts surrounding your case along with the discovery that the state must provide that it will rely upon to prosecute you. If we are able to disprove even one of the three elements then the state cannot find your guilty. Additionally, we will explore entry into Pre-Trial Intervention, Mental Health Diversionary Program, or Veterans Diversionary Program if applicable, and have your cases diverted from criminal prosecution. You will be updated throughout your matter as we seek the best possible result.

Call McGuckin Law Today

NJ terroristic threats is a serious charge that requires aggressive, serious representation. As a 3rd (or even 2nd Degree) crime, you are facing thousands in fines and 3-5 years in jail. Cast aside your fear and anxiety and call 732.924.4200 for a free consultation. McGuckin Law is here to help you win.