Prison Inmates In Essex County Should Know About This Form: Officials
ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The Essex County Board of County Commissioners recently passed a resolution that will help incarcerated people to learn about ways to resolve outstanding court fines, warrants and detainers while they’re in prison.
According to the board’s resolution, inmates must now be “promptly informed” about a form that should be submitted if they owe money for fees, fines or warrants. That form – the Incarcerated Defendant Request for Relief Form – can be downloaded online here.
The completed form should be submitted to the municipal court that has jurisdiction over their case.
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The resolution – done in collaboration with the Essex County Sherriff’s Office and the Essex County Correctional Facility – is supported by New Jersey Together and its local chapter Essex Together, a coalition of religious and nonprofit leaders dedicated to criminal justice, housing, education and environmental reform.
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“Reintegrating people back into their communities after incarceration is the cornerstone of a well-functioning criminal justice system,” said Wayne Richardson, president of the board of commissioners.
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“Without a smooth process, it is much more difficult for formerly incarcerated individuals to regain their livelihoods and contribute positively to society,” Richardson said. “With this action, defendants will be well informed of how to resolve these outstanding matters while still incarcerated, saving both them and our courts system time and money.”
“Fines, fees, and outstanding warrants pose significant economic and legal burdens for people who are re-entering communities after being incarcerated,” agreed Jessica Brater, a leader at Bnai Keshet Reconstructionist Synagogue, a member organization of New Jersey Together.
“Being able to address these barriers while incarcerated makes it much easier for people to rebuild their lives upon returning to the community,” Brater said. “Addressing outstanding warrants also reduces the threat of reincarceration after being released. Fines, fees, and being required to appear in court also make it difficult for people to obtain and keep jobs after being incarcerated.”
“By reducing court time and re-incarceration, people are able to return to their lives,” Brater added.
A recording of the Essex County Board of County Commissioners meeting where the resolution was passed can be viewed online here.
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