Weapons Charges Lawyer Somerset County NJ | SRIS, P.C.
In Somerset County, NJ, unlawful possession of a weapon under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5 can lead to up to 10 years in prison. A Weapons Charges Lawyer Somerset County NJ from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Your defense strategy starts with understanding the specific charges against you.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Statutory Definition of Weapons Charges in New Jersey
New Jersey has some of the strictest weapons laws in the nation. The primary statute governing these offenses is N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5, which prohibits the unlawful possession of various weapons, including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and other dangerous instruments. A conviction for a second-degree crime, such as unlawful possession of a handgun, carries a presumption of imprisonment. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, understands the nuances of these laws and how to build a strong defense.
External Citation Links
For the official text of the law, please refer to the New Jersey Legislature website for N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5. For information on court procedures, visit the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage official website.
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Somerset County
In Somerset County, weapons charges are typically heard in the Superior Court Criminal Division. The process begins with an arrest and a detention hearing, as New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017. Your release will depend on a Public Safety Assessment (PSA).
- Step 1: Secure Representation Immediately. Contact a Weapons Charges Lawyer Somerset County NJ before your first court appearance. Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Step 2: Understand the Charges. Your attorney will explain whether you are facing a second-degree (3rd-degree or 4th-degree) crime and the specific penalties involved.
- Step 3: Explore Diversion Programs. For eligible first-time offenders, your lawyer can apply for Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) to avoid a criminal record.
- Step 4: Prepare for the Detention Hearing. Your attorney will argue for your release under the PSA system, presenting evidence of your ties to the community.
- Step 5: Build a Defense Strategy. This may involve challenging the legality of the search and seizure, the validity of a permit, or the intent to use the weapon unlawfully.
- Step 6: Negotiate or Go to Trial. Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable plea or prepare a strong case for trial at the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage.
Penalty Table for Weapons Charges in Somerset County, NJ
In Somerset County, NJ, weapons charges carry severe penalties, including mandatory prison time for certain offenses. The classification of the crime determines the potential sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Possession of a Handgun | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 Years (Presumption of Imprisonment) | Up to $150,000 | Loss of Firearms Purchaser ID Card | Forfeiture of weapon, permanent criminal record |
| Unlawful Possession of a Rifle/Shotgun | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 Years | Up to $15,000 | Loss of Firearms Purchaser ID Card | Forfeiture of weapon, permanent criminal record |
| Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 Years (Presumption of Imprisonment) | Up to $150,000 | Loss of Firearms Purchaser ID Card | Forfeiture of weapon, permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
E-E-A-T Authority Block: Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Our firm has documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to providing strong, case-specific defense for clients facing serious charges. Our team understands the local court system in Somerset County and the strategies used by prosecutors.
Case Results
While specific case results for Somerset County weapons charges are not available for publication, our firm-wide track record speaks to our capability. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% of those outcomes being favorable. This experience includes numerous complex criminal defense matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Pack Trigger Block: Your Somerset County Weapons Charges Lawyer
Our New Jersey location serves clients at the Somerset County courts. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, Route 206, and Route 28. We serve the communities of Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
Searching for a “Weapons Charges Lawyer near Somerset County“? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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: (908) 231-7000
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weapons Charges in Somerset County, NJ
Can I get a weapons charge dismissed in Somerset County?
Yes. A Weapons Charges Law Firm Somerset County NJ can seek dismissal through Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for first-time offenders or by challenging the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the weapon.
What is the difference between a 2nd and 3rd degree weapons charge in NJ?
A 2nd-degree charge, like unlawful possession of a handgun, carries a presumption of 5-10 years in prison. A 3rd-degree charge, like unlawful possession of a rifle, carries 3-5 years. The classification depends on the type of weapon and the circumstances.
Does New Jersey have cash bail for weapons charges?
No. New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017. Your pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) risk score, not money. A detention hearing will be held to decide if you can be released before trial.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for a weapons charge in Somerset County?
PTI is a diversionary program for first-time indictable (felony) offenders. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision results in a complete dismissal of the charges. It is a valuable option for eligible defendants.
Can I get my NJ weapons charge expunged?
Yes. New Jersey allows expungement after a waiting period of 5 years for indictable crimes. If you successfully complete PTI, the charges are automatically dismissed and can be expunged immediately.
What should I do if I am arrested for a weapons charge in Somerset County?
It depends. You should remain silent and immediately request an attorney. Do not answer any questions from law enforcement. Contact a Weapons Charges Lawyer Somerset County NJ as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.