Asbury Park, NJ Fake ID Charges

Asbury Park’s vibrant nightlife draws locals, college students, and tourists year-round to bars like Johnnie Mac’s, The Wonder Bar, Asbury Ale House, Watermark and Porta. For many, a night out can quickly take a wrong turn if a fake ID is used to purchase alcohol, enter a bar, or pass as someone else. Law enforcement in Asbury Park regularly monitors these venues, especially during weekends and the busy summer season. If you’ve been charged with using or possessing a fake ID, it’s not just a minor offense; it could carry lasting legal consequences.

At The Law Office of Tara Breslow, we understand the panic that follows an arrest. Attorney Tara Breslow offers experienced, compassionate, and strategic legal defense for individuals charged with fake ID offenses, disorderly conduct, trespassing, and other related crimes across the Jersey Shore.

About Attorney Tara Breslow

Tara Breslow, Esq. is a veteran New Jersey criminal defense attorney with decades of experience. A graduate of Rutgers, Tara understands the nuances of local courtrooms and has built a reputation for aggressive yet thoughtful representation.

Tara runs a boutique firm where she personally handles every case. She is passionate about getting to know each of her clients and she believes that the best advocacy comes from having one attorney and point of contact. 

She is a seasoned criminal defense attorney who has spent 25 years representing clients throughout the Jersey Shore. She has successfully defended clients facing a range of offenses including fake ID charges, underage drinking, DWI, trespassing, and public disturbances. Tara handles each case personally and provides clear, direct communication from your first consultation through the resolution of your matter.

Understanding Fake ID Charges in NJ

New Jersey criminal statutes treat the use, possession, and creation of fake identification documents seriously. The penalties depend on how the ID is used, whether there was intent to sell or manufacture, and the age of the person involved.

Key statutes include:

• N.J.S.A. 2C:21-2.1 — False Government Documents
  Covers selling, creating, using, or simply possessing fake government documents like driver’s licenses. Penalties range from fourth-degree charges (possession) to second-degree crimes (manufacture/sale).
  
• N.J.S.A. 33:1-81 — Misrepresenting Age
  Applies when someone under 21 uses a fake ID to buy alcohol or tobacco. This is typically a disorderly persons offense with fines and a mandatory six-month license suspension.
  
• N.J.S.A. 2C:28-7 — Tampering with Public Records
  Altering a real ID or using someone else’s identification can lead to charges ranging from disorderly persons to third-degree offenses.

Fake ID in Asbury Park: Common Scenarios

Asbury Park is one of New Jersey’s most well-known destinations for nightlife, music, and entertainment. Its bustling bars, beach festivals, and concert venues draw large crowds, especially during the summer. Among the most popular hangouts are Johnnie Mac’s, The Wonder Bar, Watermark, Porta, and Asbury Ale House; all of which frequently check IDs at the door. Law enforcement is well aware of the city’s appeal to young adults and often coordinates with venue staff to conduct ID inspections and patrols in areas with high foot traffic. As a result, fake ID charges in Asbury Park are not uncommon.

Many cases arise when someone tries to use a fake out-of-state license to gain entry into a bar like Johnnie Mac’s or to purchase alcohol at a convenience store near the boardwalk. In some situations, individuals are caught using someone else’s real ID (often an older sibling’s or friend’s) which can lead to charges of tampering or impersonation. Others are stopped by police for unrelated reasons, such as a traffic violation after leaving a bar, only for officers to discover a fake ID during the encounter.

Arrests also occur during party sweeps or bar checks, particularly when underage drinking is suspected. If someone causes a disturbance after being denied entry or caught with a fake ID, the situation can escalate. It is not unusual for additional charges, such as disorderly conduct or trespassing, to be filed alongside the fake ID offense. Remaining on the premises of a bar after being asked to leave, or attempting to argue with staff or security, can transform a simple possession case into a more serious legal matter.

In Asbury Park, where nightlife and law enforcement attention intersect, even one poor decision involving a fake ID can result in lasting consequences. Understanding the context in which these charges most commonly occur helps clarify the risks and highlights the importance of an experienced criminal defense attorney to help navigate the situation.

Penalties Breakdown

For adults over 18, fake ID charges can lead to the following consequences:

• Fourth-degree crime: Up to 18 months in jail, $10,000 fine, license suspension.
  
• Third-degree crime: Up to 5 years in prison, $15,000 fine, license suspension.
  
• Second-degree crime: Up to 10 years in prison, $150,000 fine, license suspension.

Juveniles face slightly different penalties, but charges may still include detention, fines, and license suspensions that begin once driving privileges are obtained.

Related Charges: Disorderly Conduct and Trespassing

Fake ID charges are often accompanied by:

• Disorderly conduct, when an individual causes a scene after being denied entry or caught using a false ID.
  
• Trespassing, for refusing to leave a bar or private event space after being confronted.

These additional charges can complicate the defense and increase penalties. Tara Breslow is well-versed in managing multiple charges arising from a single incident and works to minimize the long-term consequences.

Strong Defense Strategies

Attorney Tara Breslow approaches every fake ID case with a personalized and strategic mindset, recognizing that no two situations are exactly alike. A key part of her defense practice involves closely examining the circumstances of the police stop or search. If the arrest stemmed from an unlawful detention or an improper search, she may move to suppress the evidence, including the fake ID itself. Without admissible evidence, the prosecution’s case can weaken substantially.

In other cases, Tara may argue that the defendant did not knowingly possess or use the fake ID. Prosecutors must prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt, and a defense may rest on the fact that the identification belonged to someone else, was found in a shared space, or was not actively used by the defendant. If possession or use cannot be directly linked to the accused, the charges may not hold up in court.

Another common strategy involves negotiating to reduce the charges to a municipal ordinance violation, which typically carries lighter penalties and does not create a permanent criminal record. This is particularly important for students or first-time offenders whose futures could be impacted by even a minor criminal conviction.

When representing juveniles or college students, Tara often seeks admission into diversion programs or educational interventions that can result in the dismissal of charges upon successful completion. These programs are especially valuable because they offer a second chance without the long-term consequences of a formal conviction. Through each step of the process, Tara Breslow remains focused on protecting her client’s rights, minimizing legal exposure, and guiding them toward a resolution that safeguards their future.

Two-Tier Penalty Summary

The potential outcomes for fake ID charges vary significantly based on the facts and the charge level. Below is a simplified breakdown:

Adults (18+):

• Fourth-degree: Up to 18 months jail, $10,000 fine
  
• Third-degree: Up to 5 years prison, $15,000 fine
  
• Second-degree: Up to 10 years prison, $150,000 fine
  
• All include 6–24 months driver’s license suspension
  

Juveniles (Under 18):

• Disorderly persons: Up to 6 months detention, $1,000 fine
  
• Third/Second-degree: Possible escalation depending on manufacturing/sales
  
• License suspension starts at age 17

Why Choose The Law Office of Tara Breslow

Clients throughout Monmouth County and the Jersey Shore choose Tara Breslow for her experience, personal dedication, and knowledge of local courts. Tara is located in the Jersey shore offering convenient access to Asbury Park and nearby towns. Whether your arrest took place at Johnnie Mac’s, during a boardwalk sweep, or at a local festival, Tara can help you understand your options and fight for the best possible outcome.

You won’t be passed off to a junior associate. You’ll work directly with Tara, a seasoned defense attorney who knows how to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your future.

What to Do Next

If you or your child has been charged with a fake ID offense in Asbury Park, reach out to The Law Office of Tara Breslow immediately. The sooner you take action, the more options you have for resolving your case. During your consultation, Tara will:

• Review the details of the arrest
  
• Explain your rights and potential outcomes
  
• Begin building a tailored legal defense

Whether you’re seeking a dismissal, a reduction in charges, or entry into a diversion program, having a knowledgeable defense attorney can make all the difference.

With the right defense, a fake ID offense doesn’t have to define your future. Tara Breslow has the experience and dedication to help you move forward. Whether your case involves fake ID, trespassing, or disorderly conduct, she’s ready to stand by your side in court and fight for the outcome you deserve. Call our office today or fill out a form for a consultation.