Criminal Defense

Somerset County Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you have been charged with committing a crime, you should have an attorney who is familiar with the process, the prosecutors, and the courts. You should also have a lawyer that has the trial experience necessary to defend your rights in the courtroom and to make sure that justice prevails.

We have the knowledge, experience, and skills needed to protect your rights; let us put them to work for you by calling any of our North and Central New Jersey office locations.

Real Help, Real Results…Call (908) 561-5577 Today

At Aiello Harris, our criminal defense lawyers represent people who have been arrested or charged with all types of felony and misdemeanor offenses. These charges include homicide, assault, sexual assault, robbery, possession of drugs (CDS), burglary, theft, juvenile, endangering the welfare of a minor, white collar crimes, arson, kidnapping, weapons, eluding, shoplifting, violations of probation/parole, Megan's Law offenses, harassment, criminal mischief, and official misconduct. We also represent defendants involved in forfeiture proceedings.

But regardless of the crime you are charged with, know that our attorneys are ready to vigorously defend you and to provide you with fierce representation all the way from the arraignment to the conclusion of your trial if necessary.

In New Jersey, you can be charged with one of three types of crimes/offenses:

Indictable Offenses

An indictable offense is the most serious of all offenses in New Jersey. They are considered serious crimes and people often refer to these offenses as felonies, even though the state of New Jersey has abolished that term. An indictable offense can range in degree from 1st degree (the most serious), to 4th degree. Indictable crimes include:

• Possession of drugs (cocaine, heroin, LSD, etc.)
• Drug distribution
• Theft
• Vehicular homicide
• Aggravated assault
• Murder

If you have been charged with an indictable offense, you could be facing a substantial prison sentence in addition to heavy fines and a permanent criminal record. As with violations of city ordinances and disorderly/petty disorderly person offenses, your criminal record can only be removed after applying for an expungement.

Disorderly Person Offenses and Petty Disorderly Person Offenses

A Disorderly Person or Petty Disorderly Person offense are the most minor offenses that one can be found guilty of under the New Jersey State Criminal Code. These types of offenses often include possession of marijuana under 50 grams, disorderly conduct, simple assault, harassment, shoplifting, and other petty crimes. If one is found guilty of a violating a disorderly person or petty disorderly person offense they can face fines and/or jail and under some circumstances, or a suspension of his/her driving privileges. In addition, this information may become a part of the person’s permanent criminal record which can only be removed by making an application to the court for an expungement.

Township/City Ordinances

A Township or City Ordinance is a law enacted by the municipality which prohibits certain types of conduct. These laws may cover everything from property and building maintenance issues to personal behavior. If one is found guilty of violating a township ordinance, he/she can face serious financial penalties and the possibility of jail. In addition, this information may become a part of the person’s permanent criminal record which can only be removed by making an application to the court for an expungement.

Expungements

If you have been arrested and/or convicted of a crime, you probably have a criminal record. You will also have a criminal record even if you received a conditional discharge or PTI. Often, employers require background checks before hiring a potential applicant and if you have a criminal record — no matter how long ago the events occurred — odds are good that you will not be hired. All is not lost. The lawyers at Aiello Harris are well versed in the laws concerning expungements and may be able to help you remove your criminal record and give you a fresh start.

However, not everyone is entitled to an expungement, there are certain general requirements. In order to find out if you are eligible for an expungement, call us at (908) 561-5577 for a free phone consultation about your situation.

24 Hours a Day • 7 Days a Week
Office and Off-Site Appointments

If you have been charged with the violation of a law, you have rights. First and foremost, you have the right to an attorney. You should not speak to the police until you have spoken to a qualified attorney who is experienced in handling criminal matters. The attorneys at Aiello Harris have the experience and knowledge to protect your rights and defend you against criminal charges.

For a free initial consultation, call Aiello, Harris, Devero, Marth & Schiffman, P.C. at (908) 561-5577 or contact us online at any of our North and Central New Jersey law offices.