Weapons Charges Lawyer Passaic County NJ | SRIS, P.C.
Weapons Charges Lawyer Passaic County NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
Weapons charges in Passaic County, NJ, are serious offenses prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:39, carrying severe penalties including mandatory prison time. If you are facing an unlawful possession or weapons offense, securing a skilled Weapons Charges Lawyer Passaic County NJ is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding New Jersey Weapons Charges
New Jersey has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation. Weapons offenses are governed by Title 2C of the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, specifically N.J.S.A. 2C:39. Charges can range from unlawful possession of a handgun, which is a second-degree crime, to possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose or certain persons not to possess weapons offenses. The classification and potential penalties depend heavily on the type of weapon, the circumstances of possession, and the defendant’s prior criminal record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Passaic Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the law, refer to the official N.J.S.A. 2C:39 (official New Jersey statutes). For court procedures and forms, visit the Passaic Vicinage Superior Court website.
Local Court Process for Weapons Charges in Passaic County
Weapons charges in Passaic County are typically indicted as crimes and heard in the Superior Court, Criminal Division, located at 77 Hamilton Street in Paterson. New Jersey’s 2017 bail reform means your initial release will be determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) score, not a cash payment. The prosecution, often from the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, pursues these charges aggressively due to mandatory sentencing laws like the Graves Act.
- Arrest & Initial Detention Hearing: You will be processed, and a judge will determine release conditions based on your PSA risk score.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury to secure an indictment, formally charging you with a crime.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your attorney will engage in discovery review and negotiations with the prosecutor, which is a critical phase for challenging evidence or seeking a favorable plea resolution.
- Motion Practice: Filing pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence (like an unlawful search) is often the key to having charges reduced or dismissed.
- Trial or Resolution: If a plea agreement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial in Superior Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will follow, where arguments can be made to minimize the term, especially concerning mandatory Graves Act periods.
Potential Penalties for Weapons Offenses
In Passaic County, weapons charges carry severe penalties, including lengthy mandatory prison sentences under the Graves Act for many firearms offenses.
| Offense | Classification (Degree) | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (Certain Persons) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (Graves Act may apply) | Up to $150,000 | Parole ineligibility, permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights. |
| Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose | 2nd or 3rd Degree | 3-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Enhanced if used in commission of another crime. |
| Unlawful Possession of Other Weapons (e.g., rifle) | 3rd or 4th Degree Crime | 18 months – 5 years | Up to $15,000 | Collateral immigration consequences, professional license loss. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Passaic County Weapons Charge
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand that a weapons charge can upend your life, affecting your freedom, employment, and family. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your arrest and the evidence against you, aiming to secure the best possible resolution.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results are confidential, our firm actively practices in New Jersey courts. SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We apply this extensive experience to defend against weapons charges, challenging unlawful searches, questioning evidence handling, and negotiating with prosecutors to seek reductions or alternative resolutions like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) where applicable.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Passaic County Residents
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) 651-9646
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location represents clients at Passaic County courts in Paterson. We serve individuals and families throughout the county, including Paterson, Clifton, Wayne, Passaic City, Totowa, and Little Falls. Facing a weapons charge requires immediate action. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only at our Tinton Falls location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Graves Act in New Jersey?
Yes. The Graves Act is a New Jersey law that mandates a period of parole ineligibility for certain firearms offenses, meaning you must serve a minimum prison term before becoming eligible for parole. A skilled Weapons Charges Attorney Passaic County NJ can argue for a Graves Act waiver or downgrade.
Can I get PTI for a weapons charge in Passaic County?
It depends. Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is generally not available for Graves Act offenses. However, for certain non-Graves Act weapons charges and first-time offenders, a strong defense may persuade the prosecutor to recommend PTI, which can lead to dismissal after successful completion.
What should I do if I’m arrested for a weapons charge?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a Weapons Charges Law Firm Passaic County NJ like SRIS, P.C. as soon as possible to begin building your defense, especially before any detention hearing.
Can an illegal search get my gun charge dismissed?
Yes. If the weapon was discovered during a search that violated your Fourth Amendment rights, your attorney can file a motion to suppress the evidence. If successful, the prosecution’s case may collapse, skilled to a reduction or dismissal of the charges.
What’s the difference between state and federal weapons charges?
State charges are under N.J.S.A. 2C:39 and prosecuted in Passaic County Superior Court. Federal charges are under U.S. Code and prosecuted in U.S. District Court, often for crimes like felon in possession or trafficking firearms across state lines. The penalties and procedures differ significantly.
Take the Next Step
A weapons charge is a severe matter with lasting consequences. Don’t face it alone. For a confidential case evaluation, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today. We provide clear, direct legal advice and vigorous representation. Call our toll-free number 24/7: (888) 437-7747.
For more information on related legal issues, see our pages on New Jersey Criminal Defense, Criminal Defense in Bergen County, or DUI Defense in Passaic County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.