New Jersey Violent Crimes Defense Lawyers

Overview of Violent Crimes in New Jersey

In New Jersey, violent crimes against others result in severe penalties, including life imprisonment without parole. Despite being ranked fifth in the nation for overall crime and corrections by U.S. News & World Report, New Jersey has the lowest violent crime rate in the country.

The Importance of an Experienced New Jersey Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges, having a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side is essential. At Lyons & Associates, P.C., our New Jersey violent crimes defense lawyers have extensive experience defending clients against serious violent crime charges. We offer comprehensive and aggressive legal strategies and representation.

Types of Violent Crime Cases We Handle at Lyons & Associates, P.C.

Federal and state laws define violent crimes as acts involving actual or threatened force or physical harm. Lyons & Associates, P.C. handles various violent crime cases, including:

  • Aggravated Assault
  • Assault and Threat Crimes
  • Assault by Auto
  • Carjacking Charges
  • Disarming a Police Officer
  • Disorderly Conduct
  • Domestic Violence
  • Harassment
  • Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution
  • Kidnapping
  • Manslaughter
  • Murder and Homicide
  • Resisting Arrest
  • Restraining Order Violations
  • Simple Assault
  • Sexual Assault and Rape
  • Stalking Offenses
  • Terroristic Threats
  • Weapons Offenses

Aggravating Circumstances in Violent Crimes

Certain violent crimes that show a total disregard for human life are considered aggravating circumstances. Examples include firing a gun into an occupied building, eluding police, or setting fires. Aggravating circumstances can elevate lesser-degree crimes, such as manslaughter, to first-degree crimes. Other crimes that can be elevated due to aggravating circumstances include simple or aggravated assault, robbery, and sexual assault.

Penalties for Violent Crimes in New Jersey

New Jersey imposes harsh penalties for violent crime convictions, depending on the crime’s severity. Some crimes, such as murder and kidnapping, have statutory penalties. For example, first-degree offenses like carjacking carry 10 to 30 years in prison, with a mandatory 85% served before parole eligibility.

Other violent crime penalties follow the state’s general crime classifications:

  • First-degree offense: 10 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $200,000.
  • Second-degree offense: 5 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000.
  • Third-degree offense: 3 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
  • Fourth-degree offense: Up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $10,000.
  • Disorderly persons offense: Fines up to $1,000.
  • Petty disorderly persons offense: Fines up to $500.

Repeat offenders, career criminals, and those involved in crimes with firearms face enhanced sentences.

The No Early Release Act (NERA)

If convicted of a violent crime in New Jersey, you may be subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA). NERA mandates that offenders serve at least 85% of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Retaining an experienced New Jersey violent crimes defense lawyer is crucial if you face charges under NERA.

Defenses Against Violent Crime Charges

Every individual charged with a crime in the U.S. has a constitutional right to defense. Common defenses against violent crime charges include:

  • Self-defense against an attack.
  • Acting in the heat of passion.
  • Lack of intent to harm or impairment preventing intent formation.
  • Mental illness at the time of the alleged crime.

Other defenses may involve mistaken identity, racial bias, tainted evidence, or mental incapacity. Our skilled defense lawyers for violent crimes in New Jersey will thoroughly analyze your case and develop a robust defense strategy.

Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction

A violent crime conviction can have far-reaching consequences beyond legal penalties, affecting employment, housing, loans, credit, voting rights, and gun ownership. Convictions for certain crimes, such as sex offenses under Megan’s Law, can result in additional societal consequences and stigmas that influence where you live, work, and interact with the public.

Why Choose Lyons & Associates, P.C.

Lyons & Associates, P.C. is dedicated to protecting your future and freedoms if you are charged with a violent crime. Early intervention allows us to build a strong defense against the charges and evidence.

Our attorneys provide critical legal support and representation, understanding the complexities of the criminal justice system and the severe consequences of such charges. We offer comprehensive defense strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances, meticulously examining evidence and leveraging our extensive knowledge of New Jersey criminal law.

At Lyons & Associates, P.C., we are committed to personalized and compassionate legal services, recognizing the stress and uncertainty accompanying criminal charges. We ensure you are fully informed and supported throughout the legal process, from pre-trial negotiations to courtroom representation. Our dedication to client advocacy means vigorously defending your interests and working towards a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life.

Contact Our New Jersey Violent Crimes Defense Lawyers at Lyons & Associates, P.C. About Your Case Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with a violent crime, contact an experienced New Jersey violent crimes defense lawyer at Lyons & Associates, P.C. Call us at 908-575-9777 or contact us online for a free consultation. With offices in Somerville, Morristown, and Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Monmouth County, Mercer County, and Burlington County.