Monmouth County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Attorney in Monmouth County

The accusation of a crime is not the same as being guilty of one. Unfortunately, the accusation alone can come with many consequences. It can impact your reputation in the community, divide you from your family, and leave you feeling isolated and alone. You do not, however, need to face these difficult and often stressful times alone. Working with a Monmouth County criminal defense lawyer provides the support needed to confidently face the legal road ahead.

Trust Michael Rosas Law PC

The team at Michael Rosas Law PC takes pride in representing people facing criminal prosecutions and investigations in Monmouth County. We have extensive experience as trial attorneys and have handled many complex cases at both the state and federal level. We have successfully handled criminal matters ranging from DWIs to murder charges. Our team understands the complexities our clients face and recognizes that each case is unique and deserves a defense tailored to those circumstances.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Monmouth County is not a very crime-prone area. It sits in the 96th percentile nationwide for overall crime rates. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean there is no chance that you’ll face criminal charges in the area. If you’ve found yourself in this position, you should hire a criminal defense lawyer right away.

Your Monmouth County criminal defense attorney can assist you with all aspects of your case, from filing paperwork and keeping track of important court dates to collecting exculpatory evidence and looking for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case against you. Working with a lawyer is the most effective way to improve your odds of reaching a successful outcome in your case, whether that means negotiating a fair plea bargain or seeking an acquittal.

Understanding New Jersey Criminal Laws

New Jersey criminal laws are outlined in the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice. According to this statute, crimes are separated into different classifications according to their severity. Unlike most states, which use the terms felony, misdemeanor, and infraction, New Jersey has a different way of classifying crimes. All offenses fall under one of these categories:

Indictable Offenses

Indictable offenses are like felonies. They’re also handled similarly, in that offenses are categorized to a degree that impacts the level of consequences that are applied. Each offense is split into one of four categories:

• First degree. Viewed most seriously, these crimes include homicide, rape, drug trafficking, and aggravated assault.
• Second degree. While less serious in nature, they are still harmful and include robbery, burglary, kidnapping, drug distribution, criminal sexual contact, and theft by extortion.
• Third degree. Third-degree indictable offenses include drug possession, arson, perjury, and terroristic threats.
• Fourth degree. Fourth-degree indictable offenses are the least serious. They include some DUI crimes, forgery, simple robbery, stalking, and certain forms of criminal mischief.

If you’re facing charges for an indictable offense, you should contact a lawyer right away. You could be facing serious prison time and fines if you are convicted.

Disorderly Persons Offenses

Disorderly offenses are crimes that would be classified as misdemeanors in other states. They’re less serious than felonies but can still carry substantial penalties, including fines and jail time. Common examples include:

• Simple assault
• Resisting arrest
• Obstruction of law enforcement
• Disorderly conduct
• Shoplifting less than $200

Disorderly persons offenses in New Jersey are not required to have jury trials or grand jury indictments, but you should still have a lawyer on your side who can help you defend yourself against these charges. First-time offenders may bypass jail time, even upon conviction, by agreeing to alternative sentencing programs such as probation and treatment. Expungement is available for some disorderly convictions.

Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses

Known in most states as infractions, these are not exactly crimes, but they could still appear on your criminal record and are punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines of up to $500. Examples of petty disorderly persons offenses include:

• Threats
• Harassment
• Abusive language

Repeated instances of petty disorderly offenses can lead to more significant repercussions.

Where Your Case May Be Heard

Your attorney can help you prepare for court at the Municipal Court or Monmouth County Superior Court, depending on the level of charges you are facing. Not all cases in New Jersey go to jury trials, but you can expect to go to court for any indictable offense. Your attorney can help you prepare and understand what to expect.

FAQs

Q: When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A: You should hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after learning that you have become a suspect in a criminal case. You don’t need to wait until charges have officially been filed against you to reach out regarding legal representation. Having a Monmouth County criminal defense attorney on your side from the beginning can improve your chances of success in court.

Q: Does It Cost Money to Just Talk to a Lawyer?

A: Whether it costs money to just talk to a lawyer depends on the context in which you are doing it. Some attorneys offer free initial consultations, but just talking to a lawyer you plan to hire for a criminal defense case may cost money because most criminal defense attorneys charge hourly fees. You can consult with our office regarding how much you can expect it to cost to discuss your case with a qualified attorney.

Q: What Should You Not Say to a Judge?

A: You should avoid using disrespectful language when speaking to a judge, arguing with their rulings, or providing unnecessary details. Don’t make sarcastic or condescending remarks, interrupt the judge, or lash out emotionally. Doing so can hurt your credibility or even result in you being held in contempt by the court. Always address the judge by their formal title, Your Honor.

Q: Can I Hire a Criminal Lawyer Now and Pay Later?

A: You are unlikely to be able to hire a criminal lawyer now and pay later after the case is resolved. Some private attorneys accept partial down payments or structured payment plans, but most require an upfront retainer fee because clients have little incentive to pay after a case ends and lawyers face high financial risks without collateral. Third-party financing may be an option for some clients.

Monmouth County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Michael Rosas and the team at Michael Rosas Law PC are a Monmouth County criminal defense team with a statewide practice. We regularly appear in Monmouth County Superior Court, Mercer County Superior Court, and Middlesex County Superior Court. We are federal criminal defense attorneys who handle matters in Trenton, Newark, and Camden federal district courts. Contact our office to schedule an initial consultation today. Let our team’s knowledge and experience provide you with the confidence you need to overcome a criminal accusation.