For anyone charged with a serious criminal offense in towns like Westfield, Cranford, Plainfield, or anywhere in Union County, all roads lead to one place: the Union County Justice Complex in Elizabeth. The prospect of appearing in Superior Court can be incredibly intimidating. It’s a formal, often confusing environment where the stakes are at their highest.

Knowing what to expect can significantly reduce your anxiety and help you prepare. As a criminal defense attorney who has frequently represented clients in this very courthouse, I’ve created this guide to demystify the process and explain what happens within its walls.

The Lay of the Land: Understanding the Courthouse Complex

First, it’s important to know where you are going. Your case will be heard at the Union County Justice Complex, located at 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ. This is a large complex, but the primary building for criminal matters is the main tower. This is where you will find the criminal courtrooms and judges’ chambers. The adjacent building across the street, houses the Union County Prosecutor’s Office.

Practical Tip: Arrive early. Parking can be challenging, and you will need to pass through a security screening with metal detectors at the entrance. Treat your court appearance with the seriousness it deserves.

Your First Appearance: Central Judicial Processing (CJP)

No matter which of Union County’s 21 municipalities you were arrested in, your first appearance for any indictable (felony-level) crime will be in a specialized court called Central Judicial Processing (CJP).

This is the court where several critical initial events happen:

• You are formally advised of the charges against you.

• Your attorney will enter their appearance on your behalf.

• The judge will address your pretrial release conditions under New Jersey’s bail reform system. If the prosecutor has filed a motion to detain you, a full detention hearing will be scheduled.

This first appearance sets the tone for your entire case. Having an experienced attorney by your side from this very first step is crucial to protecting your rights and freedom.

The Key Player: The Union County Prosecutor’s Office

In Superior Court, you are no longer dealing with a local town prosecutor. All serious criminal cases are prosecuted by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office. This is a large, well-funded agency with teams of assistant prosecutors dedicated to handling specific types of cases. They are responsible for reviewing the evidence, presenting cases to the grand jury for indictment, negotiating plea agreements, and taking cases to trial. Understanding their policies and how they approach different types of cases is a key part of a successful defense strategy.

The Path of Your Case: From CJP to Disposition

After your initial CJP appearance, your case will proceed through several stages:

1. Pre-Indictment Conference (PIC): This is an early opportunity for your attorney to review the initial evidence (discovery) and negotiate with the prosecutor, potentially resolving the case before it is formally indicted.

2. Grand Jury: If the case is not resolved, the prosecutor will present it to a grand jury—a panel of citizens who decide if there is enough probable cause to issue a formal indictment.

3. Post-Indictment Arraignment: If you are indicted, you will appear in court again to enter a formal plea of “not guilty.”

4. Status Conferences & Plea Negotiations: Your case will then proceed through a series of court dates where your attorney will continue to fight for you, file legal motions if applicable, and negotiate with the prosecutor.

Practical Advice for Your Court Date

• Dress for Success: You should dress as if you are going to a serious job interview. This shows respect for the court, the judge, and the process.

• Be on Time: Punctuality is non-negotiable. Arriving late will anger the judge and can negatively impact your case.

• Courtroom Etiquette: When the judge enters or leaves, you will be told to rise. Always address the judge as “Your Honor.” Turn off your cell phone completely before entering the courtroom. Do not talk, eat, or chew gum.

Navigating the Union County Superior Court is not something you should ever do alone. The procedures are complex, and the prosecutors are experienced professionals. You need a guide who knows the way.

If your case is being heard in Elizabeth, contact Brett M. Rosen, Esq. today for a confidential consultation to discuss your defense. 908-312-0368

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this information does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique, and you should consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. This may be considered Attorney Advertising.