Criminal Defense Lawyer in Burlington County, New Jersey
If you are facing criminal charges in Burlington County, you need a strong defense. A criminal conviction under N.J.S.A. Title 2C can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for disorderly persons and indictable offenses in Mount Holly and across Burlington County.
New Jersey Criminal Law in Burlington County
In New Jersey, criminal offenses are classified as either disorderly persons offenses (similar to misdemeanors) or indictable crimes (similar to felonies). The New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C, governs these offenses. The classification determines which court hears your case and the potential penalties you face. Disorderly persons offenses are handled in the Burlington County Municipal Court, while indictable crimes are prosecuted in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Burlington Vicinage.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Our firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With a background in accounting and information systems, he brings a detailed approach to building defenses, especially in cases involving financial or technical evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. Title 2C (New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice). For court-specific information, visit the Burlington Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for Criminal Cases
Burlington County operates under New Jersey’s Criminal Justice Reform Act, which abolished cash bail. Your release before trial is based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not your ability to pay. For first-time offenders, programs like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) in Superior Court or conditional discharge in Municipal Court can lead to dismissal of charges.
- Initial Appearance: You will be formally advised of the charges. For indictable crimes, this happens in Superior Court.
- Detention Hearing: If the state seeks to detain you, a hearing is held within 48 hours to determine if you will be released.
- Discovery & Negotiation: Your attorney reviews all evidence and discusses potential resolutions with the prosecutor, which may include a plea offer or PTI application.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if your rights were violated.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to trial if no agreement is reached, or you accept a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines and mitigating factors.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Offenses
In Burlington County, criminal penalties range from fines and probation for disorderly persons offenses to decades in state prison for first-degree crimes.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Persons | Misdemeanor Equivalent | Up to 6 months jail | Up to $1,000 | Possible suspension for certain offenses | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Petty Disorderly Persons | Minor Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days jail | Up to $500 | Usually none | Criminal record |
| 4th Degree Crime | Felony Equivalent | Up to 18 months prison | Up to $10,000 | Possible suspension | Felony record, parole supervision |
| 3rd Degree Crime | Felony Equivalent | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | Possible suspension | Felony record, significant parole term |
| 2nd Degree Crime | Felony Equivalent | 5-10 years prison (presumption) | Up to $150,000 | Likely suspension | Felony record, lengthy parole, No Early Release Act (NERA) may apply |
| 1st Degree Crime | Felony Equivalent | 10-20 years prison | Up to $200,000 | Likely suspension | Felony record, lengthy parole, NERA may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on criminal defense across New Jersey. Our approach is based on a detailed review of evidence and knowledge of local court procedures. We have a documented record of case results.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results across our practice areas with a favorable outcome rate of over 93%. While we actively represent clients in Burlington County, specific local case counts are integrated into our firm-wide results. Every case is different, and we work to achieve the best possible result based on the specific facts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Representation in Burlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 651-0900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Burlington County courts. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike and I-295. If you need a criminal defense lawyer near Mount Holly, Moorestown, or Medford, we are available to help. We serve communities throughout Burlington County including Mount Laurel, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a disorderly persons offense and an indictable crime in NJ?
Yes, there is a major difference. A disorderly persons offense is like a misdemeanor, handled in Municipal Court with a maximum 6-month jail sentence. An indictable crime is like a felony, handled in Superior Court with potential state prison time. The court process and long-term consequences are more severe for indictable crimes.
How does bail work in New Jersey now?
New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017. Your release before trial is decided by a judge based on a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) that scores your risk of fleeing or being a danger. You cannot pay a bondsman to get out. The court may release you with conditions, detain you, or release you on your own recognizance.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI)?
PTI is a program for first-time offenders charged with certain indictable crimes. If you are accepted and successfully complete a period of supervision (usually 1-3 years), the charges are dismissed and you may be eligible for an expungement. It is not an automatic right; a strong application showing rehabilitation is key.
Can I get a gun permit if I have a criminal record in NJ?
It depends. New Jersey has strict firearm laws. Any indictable conviction disqualifies you. Some disorderly persons convictions, like domestic violence, also disqualify you. Even an arrest without conviction can complicate the application. You should discuss your specific record with a criminal defense attorney.
How long does a criminal case take in Burlington County?
The timeline varies. A disorderly persons case in Municipal Court might resolve in 30-60 days. An indictable crime in Superior Court can take 3-12 months or longer, especially if detained. Complex cases or those involving extensive discovery can take over a year. Speedy trial rules apply to detained defendants.
Should I talk to the police if they want to question me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely state that you wish to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
More Resources: For broader information, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Hunterdon County and Somerset County. For other legal needs in Burlington County, consider our DUI defense or family law services.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.
The same rules apply outside Burlington County, and our page on criminal defense cases across New Jersey walks through each stage.