A New Jersey criminal defense lawyer represents people accused of violating state or federal criminal laws. An attorney may review the charges and evidence, identify legal or procedural issues, communicate with prosecutors, file appropriate motions, negotiate potential resolutions, and represent the defendant in court. The strategy depends on the charge, evidence, criminal history, and circumstances of the case.
Based in Cherry Hill, NJ, David Gelman concentrates on criminal defense matters and investigations, charges, and case strategy.
In Cherry Hill, NJ, Steve A. Traub's practice includes injury-related matters, especially claims, responsibility, and financial recovery.
Ross Gigliotti's legal work in Cherry Hill, NJ focuses on personal injury cases, including accident claims, damages, and compensation.
| State Criminal Case | Federal Criminal Case |
|---|---|
| Prosecuted under New Jersey law | Prosecuted under federal law |
| Usually handled in New Jersey courts | Handled in U.S. federal court |
| Prosecuted by state or local authorities | Prosecuted by federal authorities |
| Penalties depend on New Jersey law | Penalties depend on federal law |
Consider speaking with an attorney when:
Depending on the case, a defense attorney may:
Choose an attorney whose criminal defense experience matches the charge and court involved in your case.
What does a New Jersey criminal defense lawyer do?
A criminal defense lawyer represents people facing criminal investigations or charges. An attorney may review evidence, evaluate possible defenses, communicate with prosecutors, file motions, negotiate potential resolutions, and represent the client in court.
When should I contact a criminal defense lawyer?
Consider contacting an attorney after an arrest, criminal charge, court summons, or when you learn you are under investigation. Legal advice may also be useful before responding to law-enforcement questioning.
Can a criminal charge be dismissed?
Some criminal cases may be dismissed, but dismissal is never automatic. Whether dismissal is possible depends on the evidence, applicable law, procedural issues, and circumstances surrounding the charge.
Will every New Jersey criminal case go to trial?
No. Criminal cases can have different outcomes before trial depending on the charge, evidence, negotiations, motions, and available legal options. Some cases proceed to trial when the parties do not otherwise resolve the matter.
What should I bring when meeting a criminal defense lawyer?
Bring available court notices, charging documents, summonses, bail or release documents, police paperwork, relevant communications, and other records connected to the case. Tell the attorney about upcoming court dates.
Can a New Jersey criminal record be expunged?
Certain criminal records may qualify for expungement under New Jersey law. Eligibility depends on the person's record and applicable requirements, so not every arrest or conviction is automatically eligible.
How do I choose a criminal lawyer for a specific charge?
Look for an attorney with experience handling the particular charge involved, such as DUI, drug crime, assault, domestic violence, theft, sex crime, or white-collar crime, rather than relying only on broad criminal-law experience.