New Jersey legal term
Unlawful debt in New Jersey Criminal Law
Current through 2026 New Jersey legislative session
In New Jersey criminal law, “Unlawful debt” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the New Jersey criminal code.
What does “Unlawful debt” mean in New Jersey criminal law?
"Unlawful debt" means a debt: (1) Which was incurred or contracted in gambling activity which was in violation of the law of the United States, a state or political subdivision thereof; or (2) Which is unenforceable under state or federal law in whole or in part as to principal or interest because of the laws relating to usury. f. (N.J.S.A. 2C:41-1)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.