South Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyers That Fight

How to Select the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you’re facing criminal charges in South Jersey, the lawyer you choose can shape the rest of your life. Meet with them in person. Ask direct questions. Make sure they know the law, understand the system, and have a real plan to protect your freedom. Few attorneys in South Jersey have tried—and won—as many criminal cases as Terry B. Stomel.

Top criminal defense lawyers don’t just know the law; they know the players—judges, prosecutors, and court staff. Relationships matter. They can shape strategy, influence timing, and secure better outcomes. The gap between a skilled defense attorney and an unprepared one is huge—it’s the difference between walking free and losing years of your life.

Call today to schedule a consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney, including:

Thorough review of your arrest record
Clear explanation of your charges
Outline of potential penalties and fines
Identification of weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
Review of possible defenses tailored to your situation

You're in the right place.

For over 40 years, this firm has defended people against life-altering charges—protecting their freedom, families, and futures.

Frequently Asked Questions – Criminal Defense in NJ

Do I need a criminal defense attorney if I’ve been charged in New Jersey?

Yes. If you’re charged with a crime in New Jersey—even a minor one—you should talk to a criminal defense attorney right away. A conviction can mean jail time, fines, a criminal record, and serious problems for your job, housing, or immigration status.

If you can’t afford a private lawyer, you may qualify for a public defender. In New Jersey, public defenders are available for criminal defendants charged with indictable offenses (felonies) and some serious disorderly persons offenses, as long as you meet income guidelines. You must apply through the court and provide financial information.

Whether you hire a private attorney or qualify for a public defender, legal representation is critical. A skilled lawyer can challenge the evidence, protect your rights, negotiate with the prosecutor, or even get your case dismissed.

Can I get out of jail before trial in New Jersey?

Yes—but there’s no more cash bail in New Jersey. Instead, a judge decides whether you stay in jail or go home before trial. This decision happens during a detention hearing, usually within a few days of your arrest.

At the hearing, the judge looks at two things:

Will you show up to court?
Are you a danger to the public?

To help the judge decide, the court uses a risk score based on your charges, criminal history, and past failures to appear. If the judge thinks you’re safe to release, you might go home under conditions like check-ins, ankle monitoring, or drug testing.

If the judge denies release, you’ll stay in jail until your case ends—unless something changes and your lawyer gets another hearing.

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in New Jersey?

The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in New Jersey depends on the type of charges, how complex the case is, and how much time and work it will take. Some cases require court appearances, investigations, or expert witnesses—others may be resolved quickly.

Most law firms, including ours, do not offer flat fees without reviewing the details of your case. We’ll meet with you first, explain the process, and give you a clear breakdown of all costs. We offer payment plans in most situations, and our rates are affordable for most individuals.

What’s the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in NJ?

In New Jersey, a felony is called an indictable offense, and it’s the most serious type of crime. If convicted, you can face more than one year in prison, and sometimes much more. Examples include robbery, aggravated assault, drug distribution, and gun charges.

A misdemeanor is called a disorderly persons offense (or a petty disorderly persons offense, for the least serious cases). These are punishable by up to 6 months in county jail, plus fines and a permanent criminal record.

Even if it’s “just a misdemeanor,” the consequences can follow you for years. A lawyer can help reduce charges, fight for dismissal, or negotiate alternatives like diversion programs.

What’s the difference between 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th degree crimes in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, felony-level crimes are called indictable offenses, and they come in four degrees. The lower the number, the more serious the crime—and the harsher the punishment:

1st Degree: The most serious (like murder or armed robbery). You could face 10 to 20 years in prison, or even life for some charges.
2nd Degree: Very serious (like aggravated assault or drug distribution). Punishment is 5 to 10 years in prison.
3rd Degree: Less serious but still a felony (like drug possession or theft). You could face 3 to 5 years in prison.
4th Degree: The least serious indictable offense (like unlawful gun possession or stalking). You can get up to 18 months in prison.

Even for lower-degree charges, a conviction can mean a criminal record, jail time, and long-term consequences. Good lawyers can sometimes get charges downgraded or dismissed.

What is PTI in New Jersey and how can I get into the program?

PTI stands for Pretrial Intervention, a program in New Jersey that helps certain people avoid jail and keep a clean record. If you qualify, you complete things like community service, counseling, or drug testing. Then the charges are dismissed, and you won’t have a conviction on your record.

PTI is usually for first-time offenders charged with non-violent indictable crimes (New Jersey’s version of felonies). Serious crimes like murder or sexual assault don’t qualify. You must apply for PTI before you’re indicted, and the prosecutor must approve your application.

If you’re accepted and follow all the rules, you get a second chance—without going through trial or facing a permanent criminal record.

What is a plea bargain in New Jersey and should I accept one?

A plea bargain is a deal where you agree to plead guilty to a lesser charge or receive a lighter sentence instead of going to trial. It’s a common way criminal cases are resolved in NJ.

Whether you should take a plea deal depends on the strength of the prosecution’s case, your criminal record, and what penalties you’re facing. Never accept a plea without first talking to a criminal defense attorney. You could give up important rights, including the chance to fight the charges or keep your record clean.

Important: Prosecutors often offer better plea deals to defendants represented by lawyers who have a proven record of going to trial—and winning. If your lawyer is known for pleading every case out, the prosecution has no reason to offer you their best deal. Hiring a respected trial attorney can give you real leverage in plea negotiations.

A good lawyer will negotiate the best deal possible—then give you honest advice about whether to take it. Ultimately, the decision to accept a plea deal is personal. Only you and your family can make that call.

Can the police search my home or car in New Jersey without a warrant?

No—you do not have to let police search your home or car unless they have a valid warrant or meet a legal exception. Under the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, you have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures.

Police usually need a search warrant signed by a judge. But there are exceptions, like if they have probable cause, if evidence is in plain view, or if you give consent. You always have the right to refuse consent if they don’t have a warrant. You don’t have to argue—just clearly say, “I do not consent to a search.”

If police violate your Fourth Amendment rights, a skilled criminal defense attorney can file a motion to suppress evidence. That means asking the court to throw out anything found during an illegal search. If the evidence is key to the case, suppressing it can lead to charges being reduced or the entire case being dismissed.

Can I expunge my criminal record in New Jersey?

Yes. In New Jersey, many criminal records can be expunged–meaning the public can no longer see them. Once expunged, your record won’t show up in most background checks, helping you apply for jobs, housing, or loans.

You may qualify for expungement depending on the type of offense, your criminal history, and how much time has passed. A lawyer can help make sure your petition is accurate and complete.

You can also apply for expungement without a lawyer. The New Jersey Courts provide a free guide and online expungement system.

What happens at a criminal court hearing in New Jersey?

A criminal court hearing in New Jersey can take several forms, depending on where you are in the process. One of the first hearings is the arraignment, where the judge formally reads the charges against you and asks how you plead—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The court may also discuss detention, bail conditions, or your right to a lawyer.

Later hearings could involve pre-trial conferences, motions (like to suppress evidence), and eventually trial if your case doesn’t resolve earlier.

Your lawyer will walk you through what to expect at each step and speak on your behalf in most situations. Showing up on time, dressing respectfully, and not speaking out of turn are critical.

Key Terms in NJ Criminal Law

Acquittal

A legal judgment that the defendant is not guilty of the charges. An acquittal can happen after a trial or if the judge finds there’s not enough evidence to continue the case. This should be the primary goal for your defense attorney.

Burden of Proof

In a criminal case, the prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Your lawyer’s job is to show the jury that reasonable doubt exists so they find you not guilty.

Detention Hearing

A court proceeding where a judge decides whether to hold a defendant in jail pending trial under NJ’s bail reform law.

Conditional Discharge

A diversionary program for first-time drug offenders that allows charges to be dismissed after successful completion of probation.

Expungement

The legal process of erasing or sealing criminal records so they are no longer publicly accessible.

Grand Jury

A group of citizens who review evidence in serious criminal cases to decide if there’s enough reason to charge someone with a crime. If they agree, they issue an indictment.

Graves Act

A mandatory sentencing statute requiring prison terms and parole ineligibility for certain firearms offenses in NJ.

Inadmissible Evidence

Evidence that the judge decides can’t be used in court—usually because it was obtained illegally or is too unreliable.

Indictment

A formal charge issued by a grand jury stating there’s enough evidence to prosecute for a felony offense.

No Early Release Act (NERA)

A NJ law requiring defendants convicted of certain violent crimes to serve 85% of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole.

Mandatory Minimum

A law that requires a judge to give at least a certain amount of prison time for specific crimes. The judge can’t give a lighter sentence, even if there are good reasons to.

Miranda Rights

The constitutional rights that police must inform you of when you are in custody and subject to interrogation.

Municipal Court

Local court handling traffic offenses, disorderly persons offenses, ordinance violations, and other minor criminal matters.

Plea

A defendant’s official answer to a criminal charge—usually “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” Many cases end in a plea deal, where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to get a reduced sentence.

Pretrial Intervention (PTI)

A program for certain first-time offenders charged with indictable crimes. Successful completion can result in charges being dismissed.

Probation

A court-ordered alternative to incarceration, requiring the defendant to comply with specific conditions under supervision.

Suppression Motion

A legal motion filed to exclude evidence from trial, often on the basis of illegal search, seizure, or interrogation.

The information contained on this glossary is provided for general educational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, these definitions may omit critical legal nuances and are not exhaustive. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you require legal advice, please contact a qualified attorney licensed to practice in New Jersey.