Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Plainfield, NJ
Criminal charges, whether it is for a petty disorderly persons offense or an indictable offense, can be stressful to face. It’s understandable to feel confused or unsure about what the next step is. A Plainfield, NJ, criminal defense lawyer can help you from the initial arrest to the final court verdict.
About Us
Jared B. Weiss has decades of experience representing the people of Plainfield, Mountainside, and communities throughout Union County’s 21 municipalities. He is a New Jersey Certified Municipal Court Trial Attorney, an honor that takes years of hard work to earn and is granted only to those in good standing within the legal community. Jared works directly with his clients and provides direct, competent, and accurate services.
Jared’s certification only reflects his past work and does not guarantee future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.
Criminal Defense Cases in New Jersey
Crime takes many forms in New Jersey. In 2024, the Plainfield Police Department reported 8 rapes, 6 robberies, 30 aggravated assaults, 31 burglaries, 168 larcenies, and 56 auto thefts. The overall rate for these offenses was 2,168.2 per 100,000 residents, higher than the Union County median of 1,902.6 incidents per 100,000 people.
Criminal defense cases center around various offenses. Common types of criminal charges that the Law Offices of Jared B. Weiss can assist with include:
- Assault charges. Simple assault charges are defined as the threat or attempt to cause harm, while aggravated assault is covered by attempts with a deadly weapon or causing injuries.
- DWI. Driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges are treated as serious traffic offenses, and they are also treated as criminal charges.
- Theft. Theft is a different level of crime based on the value of allegedly stolen goods. For example, shoplifting valued between $200 and $500 is a fourth-degree crime, while grand theft worth more than $75,000 is a second-degree crime.
- Gun crimes. Examples of gun crimes include unlawful possession, use of a firearm to commit a felony, having a firearm in a restricted space, and trafficking offenses.
- Drug crimes. Drug possession, possession with intent to distribute, and distribution charges are all serious criminal charges.
- White-collar offenses. White-collar offenses cover a wide range of nonviolent, financially motivated criminal acts such as fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and insider trading.
Common Criminal Defense Strategies
Every situation requires a unique approach. Common criminal defense strategies include:
- Lack of intent. A crime did occur, but there was no criminal intent.
- Alibi. The accused was elsewhere at the time of an unlawful act.
- Self-defense. One common defense for violent crimes is that they were in self-defense or defense of another.
- Duress or coercion. Any criminal action was done through threats or manipulation.
- Procedural errors. Law enforcement must follow strict procedures throughout the investigation process. Errors such as an illegal search and seizure, a traffic stop without probable cause, or breaks in the chain of custody for evidence can all be used to dismiss or reduce charges.
- Lack of evidence. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed a criminal offense.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer
While you may represent yourself in all legal matters, the potential lasting consequences on your future are good reasons to hire a criminal defense lawyer to help with your case. Your criminal defense attorney in Plainfield, New Jersey can guide you through each stage of your case. They can protect you against manipulative police tactics, explain your options, gather evidence, and advise on what defense to use.
If a conviction seems likely, skilled legal counsel can negotiate with the state for a favorable plea bargain. Plea deals can reduce the offense you are charged with, shorten prison sentences, reduce fines, and mitigate the long-term impact on your life.
FAQs
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in New Jersey?
How much your New Jersey criminal defense lawyer depends on many variables, such as the severity of charges against you, whether a trial is necessary, the complexity of the case, and the total workload for the firm. Representation for a first-time assault charge with mitigating factors and an early plea deal typically costs less than an attorney hired for a murder trial. In your initial consultation, your lawyer can estimate your final bill.
When Should You Speak With a Criminal Defense Attorney?
You should speak with a criminal defense attorney as early as possible in the process. Your lawyer’s ability to affect the outcome typically correlates with the amount of time with your case. They can help you avoid initial mistakes and give you more time to negotiate with the state for a lesser offense. If you are in the final stages of a case, you should still seek legal counsel, as they can aid you at any point.
What Are Common Mistakes People Make in New Jersey Criminal Defense Cases?
Many people make critical errors throughout their New Jersey criminal defense cases. One common mistake is speaking with law enforcement without a lawyer present. Innocuous comments, earnest defenses, and all statements can be used against you later on by the prosecutors. A similar common communication misstep is informally reaching out to alleged victims, as it can be seen as coercion.
What Courtrooms Handle Plainfield Criminal Defense Cases?
The courtroom in which your Plainfield criminal defense case is handled varies based on its severity and jurisdiction. Petty or standard disorderly persons offenses are typically seen at Plainfield Municipal Court in town at 325 Watchung Avenue. Serious, indictable offenses are processed through the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth on Broad Street. Cases may switch venue as they proceed.
Speak With a Plainfield Criminal Defense Attorney Today
At the Law Offices of Jared B. Weiss, we know the difficulties a criminal defense case can bring. Our team can utilize years of experience and can make a positive impact on your situation.
Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation. During this meeting, we can learn your side of the story, discuss whether a trial fits your circumstances, and explore defense strategies. You may also pay a visit to our Mountainside offices, located on US Highway 22, a few blocks northwest of Echo Lake and northeast of City Hall.
