Criminal Defense

Our commitment to N.J. criminal law is no secret, and we’re repeatedly recognized for it. In 2017 alone, our team earned two coveted spots amongst SJ Magazine’s Top Attorneys 2017, were honored by Super Lawyers Magazine as “Rising Stars,” and two of our attorneys became certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as criminal trial attorneys — a distinction only 300 out of 40,000 lawyers statewide have earned.

Our competitive advantage comes from hands-on experience working for the other side. As former county prosecutors, we strategically consider the prosecutor’s perspective when preparing your case to develop the most comprehensive defense possible. Our expertise in New Jersey criminal law is expansive and includes:

Juvenile Crime

In New Jersey, people younger than 18 years old who commit crimes are considered juveniles and are tried in the family part of Superior Court. Although the law is designed to protect children rather than punish them, it’s not uncommon for prosecutors to argue children should be tried as adults — especially if they are repeat offenders. When that happens, children are “waived” to adult court and face the same punishments as an adult would. Having a criminal record can be detrimental for your child and could prevent them from going to college or getting a job. As your criminal lawyer, it’s our job to protect your son or daughter and ensure they are treated fairly and in a way that will help them become productive, law-abiding adults.

• Juvenile Case Process
• Juvenile Tried as an Adult (“waiver” cases)
• Juvenile Diversionary Matters (such as Intake Services Conference or Juvenile Conference Committee)

Sex Crimes

Crimes of a sexual nature are taken very seriously in New Jersey, especially when involving children, family members, and domestic partners. In N.J., sex crimes include sexual harassment, criminal sexual contact, and sexual assault. Sex crime charges vary from petty disorderly persons to first degree. Without a proper defense, a person accused of any of these crimes could spend 30 days – 20 years in jail and be required to register on the sex offender list under Megan’s Law. Some convictions are also subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA), meaning that if convicted a defendant must serve 85 percent of their sentence before they become eligible for parole.

Drug Crimes

As the “war” on drugs continues to rage nationwide and the opioid epidemic grows, New Jersey maintains its stance against the possession, use and distribution of illegal drugs including narcotics/opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine, and more. While medical marijuana is legal, New Jersey residents are still using pot illegally, sometimes being arrested despite the privacy that should be afforded by the Plain Smell Doctrine. A conviction for drug crimes can result in jail time and participation in drug treatment programs.

• Drug Court
• Marijuana
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Dangerous Substance
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Within 1,000 ft. of a School Zone
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Within 500 ft. of a Public Park
• Opiate Addiction

Stalking

Stalking involves engaging in multiple behaviors involving another person that cause them to fear for their safety. Stalking charges involve jail time and fines, but also a powerful stigma of what it means to be a “stalker.” It’s crucial to obtain qualified legal help in a stalking case because many nuanced factors such as your relationship with the plaintiff could help an attorney reduce charges to harassment.

Arson

In New Jersey, arson is defined as recklessly or intentionally causing a fire or explosion of land, a structure, or a vehicle. The law allows for harsher punishment if the target is a religious building. In many cases, arson charges accompany insurance fraud charges. Charges can vary from fourth to first degree, with punishment including jail time and thousands of dollars in fines. Some convictions are also subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA), meaning that if convicted a defendant must serve 85 percent of their sentence before they become eligible for parole. Also, arson charges cannot be expunged from a criminal record, meaning a wrongful conviction could prevent you from getting employment, loans, or military work for the rest of your life.