Citation CJ2 is a New Jersey court document that orders you to appear in court on a specific date
A Citation CJ2 is an official summons issued by a New Jersey court directing you to appear at a scheduled time and place. It is not an arrest warrant, a fine, or a conviction — it is a notice that you must show up. The court issues it when someone has filed a case against you or when you are required to testify as a witness. Ignoring a Citation CJ2 can result in additional charges, a warrant for your arrest, or a default judgment against you.
The document itself contains your name, the case number, the court location, the date and time you must appear, and the reason for the summons. It may be delivered to you in person by a process server, by certified mail, or in some cases by a police officer. The back of the citation typically explains what to do if you cannot attend on the scheduled date.
Key Takeaways
- A Citation CJ2 is a court order to appear in person on a specific date and time; failure to appear can result in additional criminal charges or a default judgment.
- The citation will state the reason you must appear, the court location, and the case number — all information you need to prepare.
- If you cannot attend on the scheduled date, you must contact the court listed on the citation before that date to request a postponement.
- You should bring any documents relevant to your case, such as receipts, contracts, or written correspondence, depending on what the case involves.
- If you do not understand the citation or the reason for it, you can call the court clerk's office at the phone number listed on the document.
How to read the information on your Citation CJ2
The front of the citation contains several key pieces of information. At the top, you will see the court name and location — this tells you which courthouse to go to. Below that is your name and the case number, which you should write down or photograph for your records. The date and time of your required appearance is clearly marked, usually near the middle of the document.
The citation will also state the reason you must appear. This might say something like "defendant in a criminal matter," "witness," "traffic violation," or "civil case." This tells you what type of case you are involved in and helps you understand what documents or information to bring. If the reason is unclear, the court clerk can explain it over the phone.
On the back of the citation, you will usually find instructions for what to do if you cannot attend. Most citations allow you to request a postponement by calling the court or appearing in person before the scheduled date. Some citations may include a phone number or website where you can check the status of your case.
What happens if you do not appear on the scheduled date
If you fail to appear on the date listed on your Citation CJ2, the court will likely issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This means law enforcement can arrest you at any time — at home, at work, or during a traffic stop. A bench warrant remains active until you appear in court or the warrant is recalled.
In addition to the warrant, you may face additional charges such as failure to appear or contempt of court. These charges can result in fines, jail time, or both, depending on the circumstances and the judge's decision. If you were the defendant in a criminal case, a failure to appear can also result in a default judgment against you, meaning the court may rule against you without hearing your side of the story.
If you have a legitimate reason for missing your court date — such as a medical emergency or a death in the family — you should contact the court as soon as possible to explain. The judge may recall the warrant and reschedule your appearance, but you must act quickly.
How to request a postponement or reschedule your court date
If you know you cannot attend on the scheduled date, contact the court listed on your Citation CJ2 before that date. Most New Jersey courts allow you to request a postponement by phone, in person, or through their online portal. The court clerk can tell you what options are available and what information you need to provide.
When you call or visit, have your citation and case number ready. Explain why you cannot attend — valid reasons include work conflicts you cannot change, medical appointments, childcare emergencies, or transportation problems. The court is more likely to grant a postponement if you request it in advance rather than waiting until the day of your appearance.
Some courts allow you to request a postponement online through their website. Check the back of your citation or call the court's main number to find out whether this option is available. If you request a postponement and it is granted, the court will send you a new date by mail or tell you the new date over the phone.
What to bring and how to prepare for your court appearance
Bring your Citation CJ2 with you to court, along with a valid photo ID. If you are the defendant in a criminal case, bring any documents that support your position — receipts, text messages, emails, or witness contact information. If you are involved in a civil case, bring contracts, invoices, photographs, or any other evidence related to the dispute.
Arrive at the courthouse at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Go through security screening at the entrance, which typically involves a metal detector and bag check. Ask a court officer where your courtroom is located if you are unsure. Courtrooms are usually labeled by judge's name or case type.
Dress neatly and professionally — avoid very casual clothing, hats, or anything that might distract from your case. Turn off your phone or put it on silent. If you have an attorney, they should attend with you. If you cannot afford an attorney and are facing criminal charges, you can request a public defender at your first court appearance.
The difference between a Citation CJ2 and other court documents
A Citation CJ2 is different from a summons, a subpoena, and an arrest warrant, though these documents can sometimes be confused. A summons is similar to a citation but is typically used in civil cases and may give you more time to respond. A subpoena is a document ordering you to testify as a witness or produce documents; it does not necessarily require you to appear in person if you are not a party to the case. An arrest warrant authorizes law enforcement to take you into custody when ready, whereas a Citation CJ2 straightforward orders you to appear on a specific date.
A Citation CJ2 is also different from a traffic ticket, though both are issued by courts. A traffic ticket is typically a citation for a minor violation and may allow you to pay a fine by mail without appearing in court. A Citation CJ2 requires your personal appearance and is used for more serious matters or when the court needs to hear from you directly.
If you are unsure which type of document you received, the court clerk can clarify. The document itself should state what type of summons or citation it is, usually near the top or in a header.
Where to find help understanding your Citation CJ2
If you do not understand your Citation CJ2, your first step should be to call the court clerk's office at the phone number listed on the document. The clerk can explain what the citation means, why you received it, and what you need to do. This service is free and is part of the court's job.
If you are facing criminal charges, you may be may have access to to a public defender if you cannot afford an attorney. You can request this at your first court appearance, or you can contact your county's public defender's office before your court date. If you are involved in a civil case and want legal information, you can contact your county bar association for a referral to a private attorney or a legal aid organization.
New Jersey also has court self-help centers in some counties that provide information about court procedures and can answer basic questions about your case. You can find contact information for your county's self-help center through the New Jersey Courts website or by calling the court directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ignore a Citation CJ2 if I think the case is not serious?
No. Ignoring a Citation CJ2 is never advisable, regardless of how serious you think the case is. Failure to appear will result in a bench warrant for your arrest and additional charges. If you believe the citation was issued in error or you have a defense, you can present that to the judge in court.
What if I lost my Citation CJ2 and do not remember the court date?
Call the court listed on your citation or contact your county courthouse. Provide your name and date of birth, and the clerk can look up your case and tell you the court date. You can also search for your case online through the New Jersey Courts website if your county offers that service.
Can I have someone else appear in court for me?
In most cases, no. You are required to appear in person. If you have an attorney, they may be able to appear on your behalf in some civil matters, but you should confirm this with the court before your scheduled date. For criminal cases, you must appear personally.
What if I receive a Citation CJ2 but I was not the person involved in the incident?
Contact the court when ready with proof of your identity and an explanation. Bring documentation such as a driver's license or passport. The court can correct the error and issue a citation to the correct person, or dismiss the citation if it was issued by mistake.
Do I need to pay a fine when I receive a Citation CJ2?
Not necessarily. A Citation CJ2 is an order to appear in court, not a fine. The court will determine whether you owe a fine after your appearance and after hearing the case. Do not send money to the court unless you are specifically instructed to do so on the citation.