An alibi is a form of evidence used to defend against a criminal charge by demonstrating that the accused was somewhere other than the scene of the crime when the crime was committed.
In New Jersey, an alibi is indeed recognized as a legitimate defense in criminal proceedings. According to New Jersey Court Rules, specifically Rule 3:11, a defendant intending to rely on an alibi defense must notify the prosecution in writing before the trial. This notice must include specific information about where the defendant claims to have been at the time of the alleged offense, as well as the names and addresses of witnesses the defense plans to call to support the alibi. The prosecution is then required to respond with any information that refutes the alibi, including witnesses that the state intends to present. This exchange of information is designed to prevent surprises at trial and to give both parties a fair opportunity to investigate the claims made by the other side. Failure to provide notice of an alibi may result in the defense being precluded from presenting that alibi at trial.