Do I Need an NJ Criminal Lawyer – New Jersey Criminal Defense
The New Jersey Superior Court takes allegations of criminal offenses against individuals seriously, and you need an experienced and respected criminal defense attorney protecting your freedom and your rights. The prosecution monitors and investigates criminal violations throughout all 21 counties in New Jersey. The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office coordinates with county prosecutors on serious criminal cases, and the Superior Court Criminal Division handles these matters through courthouses statewide.
An investigation and/or criminal prosecution can threaten an individual’s professional reputation and freedom. During the investigative stage, an experienced criminal defense attorney can assist the individual by responding to an inquiry from law enforcement. This response may be in writing and/or in person during an investigative interview. With experienced defense counsel, an effective response may result in the investigation closing without a formal filing. This is absolutely critical.
Understanding the Criminal Investigation Process
The financial and emotional costs of a formal criminal filing can be overwhelming, and can tarnish a career given that the filing and charges of the individual’s violations are publicly available because criminal charges are posted to the court system, published in the media, and accessible through online databases. Even if the allegations are later disproven, the damaging effect may linger.
It is important to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney early. At Spodek Law Group, we understand the complexities of defending an individual’s freedom. Whether your legal problem arises from a police investigation, a filing by county prosecutors, or an arrest by local law enforcement we can assist you in protecting your employment and freedom.
Our office is experienced defending individuals facing criminal prosecution(s) due to the following allegations:
- Aggravated Assault Charges
- Drug Possession and Distribution
- Theft and Robbery Offenses
- White Collar Crimes
- DWI and Traffic Offenses
- Domestic Violence Charges
- Weapons Offenses
- Sexual Assault Allegations
- Burglary and Breaking & Entering
- Fraud and Forgery
- Conspiracy Charges
- Resisting Arrest
New Jersey Criminal Reporting Requirements
Individuals are required to cooperate with criminal investigations when served with a grand jury subpoena and/or when contacted by law enforcement according to New Jersey statutes. Any false statement to law enforcement can result in additional criminal charges. A detective will follow-up in writing requesting additional information if necessary and/or may request an interview.
The county prosecutor’s office and local police departments may become involved in cases involving criminal offenses. Detectives from these offices and/or the State Police have authority to investigate violations that may constitute criminal offenses under New Jersey criminal code.
Criminal Defense With A Comprehensive Approach
At Spodek Law Group we evaluate the best course of action for the individual by examining your circumstances and taking a proactive, understanding approach. As experienced criminal defense counsel, we represent individuals at all phases of the Criminal Proceedings including:
- Police investigative process
- Response to law enforcement inquiries
- After an Investigation commences
- After the filing of criminal charges
- During Contested Trials before the Superior Court
- Sentencing Hearings and Appeals
At Spodek Law Group, we also assist individuals with Pretrial Intervention Programs and/or Sentencing Mitigation which have been previously denied. We pride ourselves on taking a comprehensive strategy to defend the individual’s freedom. Over 40 years combined experience – really.
Defense Strategy Components
Depending on the individual’s circumstance, the defense strategy may include:
Requesting a meeting with the County Prosecutor’s Office to present evidence to either refute the allegation that criminal conduct occurred or mitigate the degree of charges;
Retaining appropriate experts in the issues at hand;
Retaining a defense investigator to interview any witnesses, issue subpoenas of relevant records, secure computer meta data, and/or evaluate the scene or evidence;
Developing a constitutional defense if Fourth Amendment violations are at issue. This may include documentation showing illegal searches and/or reasonable expectations of privacy; or if necessary recommend negotiating a plea agreement to address any criminal liability under New Jersey sentencing guidelines;
Creating a mitigation strategy for sentencing. Sometimes in our lives we suffer personal hardships, mental health struggles, substance abuse issues, or even just go through an extended period of difficulty. In these instances, an individual is not in need of criminal prosecution by the state; they need understanding andcontext;
Assisting the individual with gathering the necessary mitigation documents to support a defense package and/or prepare for trial with the prosecution.
New Jersey Criminal Penalties
| Crime Degree | Prison Range | Fine Range |
|---|---|---|
| First Degree | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 |
| Second Degree | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 |
| Third Degree | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 |
| Fourth Degree | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 |
| Disorderly Persons | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 |
Recent New Jersey Prosecutions Show Need for Defense Counsel
Criminal prosecutions by county prosecutors have increased significantly throughout New Jersey. The state has charged thousands of defendants with various offenses in recent years. Recent cases show the seriousness – defendants without proper representation have received maximum sentences while those with experienced counsel obtained favorable outcomes.
The offices now pursue even minor cases aggressively. First-time offenders who might have received municipal court dispositions years ago now face indictable charges in Superior Court. The prosecution uses body camera footage, surveillance video, and witness statements to build overwhelming cases before grand jury presentation.
County prosecutors coordinate with specialized units including narcotics task forces, gang units, and white collar crime divisions. The Attorney General’s Office has made certain prosecutions priorities including gun crimes, drug distribution, and public corruption. Cases that begin as minor offenses often escalate when additional charges are added during investigation. Without proper legal representation from the start, defendants miss critical opportunities to limit exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions About NJ Criminal Defense
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in NJ?
Criminal defense attorney fees in New Jersey vary based on case complexity, attorney experience, and charge severity. Simple municipal court matters may cost $1,500-$5,000 while serious indictable offenses can range from $10,000-$50,000 or more. Many attorneys offer payment plans or flat fees. Public defenders are available for those who qualify financially. The cost of not having proper representation often exceeds attorney fees through higher sentences and collateral consequences.
Should I get a lawyer for criminal charges?
Yes, criminal charges require legal representation to protect your rights and freedom. Prosecutors have extensive resources and experience pursuing convictions. Without an attorney, you may unknowingly waive important rights or miss defense opportunities. Even minor charges can have serious consequences including jail time, fines, and permanent criminal records affecting employment. An attorney can negotiate charge reductions, explore diversion programs, and present defenses you may not know exist.
Can you defend yourself in New Jersey?
While you have the constitutional right to self-representation, defending yourself is extremely risky and rarely successful. New Jersey court procedures are complex with strict evidence rules and filing deadlines. Judges cannot provide legal advice or help you present your case. Prosecutors are experienced attorneys who know how to obtain convictions. Self-represented defendants typically receive harsher sentences than those with attorneys. The saying “a person who represents themselves has a fool for a client” exists for good reason.
Contact Information
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in New Jersey, contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Spodek Law Group. We have over 40 years of combined experience defending individuals against criminal charges throughout New Jersey. Our attorneys understand the complexities of criminal cases and how prosecutors evaluate these matters.
For immediate assistance, call us at 212-300-5196. We maintain 24-hour availability for urgent criminal matters. Don’t wait until indictment to get representation – early intervention often produces significantly better outcomes.
Spodek Law Group
Criminal Defense Attorneys
212-300-5196
Available 24/7 for Criminal Matters