Conduct unbecoming a public employee, N.J.A.C. 4A:2-2.3(a)(6)

Conduct unbecoming a public employee is an administrative, catch-all disciplinary cause of action in New Jersey.  If you receive a Preliminary Notice of Disciplinary Action related to this or any other cause, you should call a lawyer right away.  You have rights to a hearing and if you are not satisfied with the result of that hearing, you have the right to appeal.  Civil Services hearings and appeals in New Jersey can be tricky but our team of tough, smart lawyer know how to get the job done.

For example, conduct unbecoming a public employee, which is probably most often seen as conduct unbecoming of an (police or other law enforcement) officer does not have a precise definition.  For instance, in In re Emmons, 63N.J. Super. 136, 164 A.2d 184 (1960), the Appellate Division confronted the issue whether an off-duty police officer’s refusal to cooperate and to submit to a sobriety test following an automobile accident constituted “conduct unbecoming an officer.” Id.at 140, 164 A.2d 184. The court observed that “[t]he phrase is an elastic one,” that “has been defined as `any conduct which adversely affects the morale or efficiency of the bureau … [or] which has a tendency to destroy public respect for municipal employees and confidence in the operation of municipal services.'” Ibid. (quoting In re Zeber, 398 Pa. 35, 156 A.2d 821, 825 (1959)).

No matter what the facts are in your case, our team of tough, smart lawyers will fight for you.  We know how to put together a tough defense and our track record has proven it.  Call us at 1-855-9-JEFLAW to discuss your case with us.