Freehold Criminal Defense Lawyers

Navigating the complex and often isolating criminal justice system in New Jersey can be a daunting task. However, when you find yourself facing criminal charges, the presence of a seasoned Freehold criminal defense lawyer can provide a much-needed sense of relief and reassurance. With their experience in criminal justice matters, they can skillfully identify weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case, potentially leading to reduced sentences or even acquittals.

By engaging a seasoned criminal defense attorney at Lyons & Associates, P.C. at the earliest opportunity, you are taking a proactive step to ensure you have a strong advocate during interactions with the police and the prosecutor. Our legal team, well-versed in the New Jersey court system, is dedicated to protecting your rights, shielding you from potential legal pitfalls, and striving to achieve the best possible outcome based on the evidence.

Our Criminal Law Practice Areas at Lyons & Associates, P.C.

At Lyons & Associates, P.C., our attorneys are equipped to handle a wide range of criminal matters. Whether you’re facing charges for expungements, drug offenses, gun offenses, insurance and healthcare fraud, or juvenile crimes, our dedicated team will work diligently to secure the most favorable outcome for you.

  • Expungements: The state offers opportunities to expunge certain criminal convictions, which can be crucial for job searches, loan applications, and other activities. We can guide you through this process and determine if you qualify for expungement.
  • Drug Charges: These can range from minor offenses to severe crimes, potentially resulting in significant prison time and loss of driving privileges. Factors include the type and quantity of drugs, distribution allegations, and intent.
  • Gun Offenses: New Jersey has strict gun laws with severe penalties, including a minimum five-year prison sentence for offenses involving firearms. We navigate these laws to protect your rights.
  • Insurance and Healthcare Fraud: Aggressive insurance carrier audits make regulatory compliance critical. We assist in preventing and addressing issues arising during audits.
  • Juvenile Crimes: The juvenile justice system differs from the adult system, but the consequences can still be severe. We help navigate legal challenges and protect your child’s future.
  • Municipal Court Offenses: These include disorderly persons offenses, petty offenses, and serious motor vehicle offenses like DWI. We treat all charges seriously and provide a robust defense.
  • Parole Issues: From parole planning to appeals, revocations, and modifications, we help maximize the chances of release and ensure proper handling of parole matters.
  • Megan’s Law Relief: We assist individuals convicted of sex crimes in seeking relief from Megan’s Law requirements and parole supervision.
  • Sex Crimes: Being charged with a sex crime can have lifelong consequences. We fight to reduce charges and limit the impact of Megan’s Law.
  • Violent Crimes: These carry harsh penalties, including life imprisonment. We work to defend against charges and mitigate sentencing.
  • White-Collar Crimes: Non-violent but damaging crimes like fraud and theft require a strong defense to challenge the prosecution’s case and minimize penalties.

Our experienced lawyers are dedicated to using their experience and knowledge to help you through your legal challenges, no matter the size or severity of the case.

What Are the Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in New Jersey?

criminal conviction

Facing a criminal conviction in New Jersey can have severe and lasting consequences beyond jail time and fines, including:

  • Loss of Rights: Convictions can lead to losing your right to own firearms, serve on a jury, and vote during incarceration, probation, or parole.
  • Loss of Child Custody: A criminal record can affect custody battles, with convictions used against you in court.
  • Employment and Housing Challenges: A criminal record can hinder job prospects and loan approvals for buying a home.
  • Travel Restrictions: Convictions can limit your ability to travel domestically and internationally.
  • Professional License Issues: Convictions can jeopardize professional licenses, leading to reprimands, suspensions, or revocations.
  • Immigration Consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation or re-entry denial.

Given these ramifications, consulting a criminal lawyer is essential to fight the prosecution or reduce charges.

Why Hire a Freehold Criminal Defense Lawyer for Your Case?

Representing yourself in a criminal case can result in harsher penalties due to a lack of legal knowledge and experience. A criminal lawyer understands the system, has insights into local prosecutors and judges, and knows how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to turn the trial in your favor.

What Are the Levels of Criminal Charges in New Jersey?

New Jersey classifies criminal charges as “disorderly persons offenses” or “indictable offenses” (crimes), with varying degrees of punishment:

  • Disorderly Persons Offenses: Minor offenses are handled in municipal court, and penalties can include up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
  • Indictable Crimes: These serious offenses are heard in Superior Court, and penalties range from 18 months to life in prison and fines up to $200,000.

Understanding the level of offense and potential penalties is crucial when facing charges.

Indictable Crimes in New Jersey Superior Court: Levels and Penalties

levels of crime

Indictable crimes in New Jersey are heard in the Superior Court and come with varying levels of seriousness and associated penalties. The severity of the offense determines the potential sentences, including jail time and fines. Generally, prosecutors aim for convictions at the highest level of the crime charged. The role of a defense lawyer is crucial in challenging the charges, seeking to prevent a conviction, and, if necessary, securing the most lenient sentence possible for their client.

There are four levels of indictable crimes:

  • Fourth-Degree Crimes:
    • Penalty: Up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
  • Third-Degree Crimes:
    • Penalty: A prison sentence ranging from three to five years and a fine of up to $15,000.
  • Second-Degree Crimes:
    • Penalty: A prison sentence ranging from five to 10 years and a fine of up to $150,000.
  • First-Degree Crimes:
    • Penalty: A prison sentence ranging from 10 to 20 years, with the potential for a 25-year, 30-year, or life sentence in some cases, and a fine of up to $200,000.

Depending on the specific statute under which you are charged, the fine and penalty exposures can exceed these general sentencing provisions.

When to Hire a Freehold Criminal Defense Lawyer

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer as early as possible can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s why early intervention is critical:

  • Preventing Charges from Being Filed: A lawyer can sometimes prevent criminal charges from being filed against you. By intervening early, an attorney can communicate with law enforcement and prosecutors on your behalf, potentially persuading them that there isn’t enough evidence to pursue charges.
  • Proper Handling During Investigations: Anything you say or do can be used against you during the investigation phase. A lawyer can guide you in interacting with law enforcement, ensuring you don’t inadvertently incriminate yourself. They can also be present during questioning to protect your rights.
  • Arranging Voluntary Surrenders: An attorney can arrange a voluntary surrender if charges are inevitable. This can help avoid the shock and public embarrassment of being arrested at home or work. It also demonstrates to the court that you are cooperative and not a flight risk.
  • Seeking Pretrial Release: New Jersey law sometimes permits defendants to be held without bail. An attorney can argue for your pretrial release, helping you avoid unnecessary jail time while awaiting trial. They can present compelling arguments to the judge about your ties to the community, employment, and lack of flight risk.

Our Freehold Criminal Defense Lawyers at Lyons & Associates, P.C. Will Protect Your Rights if You Have Been Accused of a Crime

Do not face the criminal justice system alone if you are charged with or accused of a crime. Our Freehold criminal defense lawyers at Lyons & Associates, P.C. will defend your rights and work to secure the best possible outcome. For a free consultation, call 908-575-9777 or contact us online. Located in Somerville, Morristown, and Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Somerset, Woodbridge, Morristown, Parsippany, Rockaway, Short Hills, Chatham, Randolph, Madison, Morris Plains, and Monmouth County.

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