Edison County NJ Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Legal Options?
A criminal charge in Edison County, NJ, can lead to severe penalties, including jail time under the New Jersey Criminal Justice Reform Act. As a Criminal Defense Lawyer Edison County NJ, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for indictable crimes and disorderly persons offenses.
Understanding Criminal Charges in New Jersey
New Jersey categorizes criminal offenses into two main types: indictable crimes (felonies) and disorderly persons offenses (misdemeanors). Indictable crimes are serious offenses tried in the Superior Court and are classified by degree, from first-degree (most severe) to fourth-degree. Disorderly persons and petty disorderly persons offenses are heard in the Municipal Court and carry a maximum jail sentence of six months. The specific statute governing criminal offenses is found in Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A. 2C).
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of New Jersey, Middlesex County | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s criminal code, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C (official New Jersey Legislature site). Information about court procedures and locations can be found on the New Jersey Courts Criminal Division website.
handling the Edison County Criminal Court Process
The process for a criminal case in Edison County depends on the charge’s severity. An indictable crime begins with a complaint and proceeds to a first appearance, where bail conditions are set under the 2017 bail reform guidelines. The case is then prepared for a potential grand jury presentation in Middlesex County. For disorderly persons offenses, the entire process occurs in the local Municipal Court. Prosecutors in Middlesex County often seek strict penalties for drug and theft-related charges.
- Secure legal representation immediately after an arrest or receiving a summons.
- Attend the first appearance or arraignment to address bail and enter a plea.
- Work with your attorney to review discovery (evidence) from the prosecution.
- Evaluate defense strategies, which may include filing pre-trial motions to suppress evidence.
- Prepare for either a negotiated plea resolution or a trial before a judge or jury.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Convictions
In Edison County, NJ, criminal penalties vary widely based on the degree of the offense, ranging from probation and fines to decades in state prison.
| Offense | Classification (N.J.S.A.) | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Degree Crime | Indictable (1st Degree) | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Parole ineligibility, permanent felony record |
| Second-Degree Crime | Indictable (2nd Degree) | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Loss of professional licenses, firearm rights |
| Third-Degree Crime | Indictable (3rd Degree) | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Immigration consequences, difficulty finding employment |
| Fourth-Degree Crime | Indictable (4th Degree) | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Criminal record, impact on child custody cases |
| Disorderly Persons Offense | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Driver’s license suspension, community service |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor whose background provides insight into how the other side builds a case. We focus on building a defense strategy from the moment you contact us.
Our Approach to Criminal Defense Cases
We approach each case by first securing all available evidence through discovery. We then analyze the prosecution’s case for weaknesses, such as violations of your constitutional rights during a search or arrest. For indictable offenses, we prepare for grand jury proceedings and pre-trial motions. Our goal is to seek the best possible outcome, which may be a dismissal, reduction of charges, or a favorable plea agreement.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Edison County Criminal Defense Law Firm
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 455-2770
By appointment only.
Our Tinton Falls location serves clients throughout Edison County and Middlesex County. We are accessible via the Garden State Parkway and NJ Route 18. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We serve neighborhoods and communities across the Edison County area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an indictable crime and a disorderly persons offense in NJ?
Yes, there is a major difference. Indictable crimes are felonies handled in Superior Court with potential state prison sentences. Disorderly persons offenses are misdemeanors handled in Municipal Court with a maximum jail term of six months. The court process and long-term consequences differ significantly.
Can I go to jail for a first-time offense in New Jersey?
It depends on the charge. For a first-time disorderly persons offense, jail is possible but less likely than probation or fines. For indictable crimes, especially third-degree or higher, incarceration is a real possibility. A strong defense from a Criminal Defense Attorney Edison County NJ is critical to argue for alternative sentencing.
What should I do if I am arrested in Edison County?
Remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Request a public defender at your first appearance if you cannot afford an attorney. An early legal intervention can protect your rights during questioning and bail hearings.
How long does a criminal case take in New Jersey?
The timeline varies. A disorderly persons case in Municipal Court may resolve in a few months. An indictable crime in Superior Court can take a year or more, especially if pre-trial motions are filed or the case goes to trial. Complex factors like evidence review and court scheduling affect the duration.
Can a criminal conviction be expunged in New Jersey?
Yes, many criminal convictions can be expunged (sealed) after a waiting period, which is typically 5 years for disorderly persons offenses and 6-10 years for indictable crimes, depending on the degree. Certain serious offenses are not eligible. An attorney can review your record to determine if you qualify for expungement.
Related Pages: If you are facing federal charges, see our page on Federal Criminal Defense. For charges in other areas, our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub provides more information. We also assist with Expungement to clear your record.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.