The Fourth of July is here and, for many New Jersey residents, Independence Day means beaches, barbecues, and fireworks.

A professional 4th of July fireworks display. We suggest NJ residents keep the fireworks to the professionals to avoid fines and possible jail time. (Photo Source: Wikipedia)

Most NJ residents know that buying, selling, or distributing fireworks within the state is illegal (a violation of NJSA 21:3-2) yet every year thousands flock across the border to Pennsylvania to bring fireworks back home for their July 4^th celebrations.

What you may not know is that selling fireworks (or possessing with the intent to sell) is a fourth degree crime in New Jersey—a conviction could land you in jail for up to 18 months plus up to a $10,000 fine.

Even without any intent to sell them, possession of fireworks in NJ amounts to a petty disorderly persons offense. That means that if you are caught with fireworks you could end up going to jail for up to 30 days and fined $500.

Besides being illegal, fireworks are actually dangerous! Fireworks are responsible for over 9,000 injuries per year—65% of which occur during the month of July—with most coming to the hands, fingers, and eyes. Even more troubling is that about 60% of these injuries happen to children.

Rather than risking injury, jail time, and fines, we suggest you leave the fireworks displays to the professionals. For a list and interactive map of New Jersey’s official Independence Day fireworks displays visit NJ.com.

If you do get caught with fireworks in New Jersey this holiday weekend be sure to contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys of Rosenblum Law. Call anytime for a free consultation, 888-815-3649.