Violent Crime Lawyer In Cherry Hill, NJ

Our legal system punishes violent crime offenders harshly, with a conviction often leading to a lengthy prison sentence and hefty fines. Even the mere accusation of violent crime can place a person’s future endeavors in jeopardy.

If you are facing allegations of a violent crime, our New Jersey violent crime attorney want to hear from you. With over 20 years of experience, the legal team at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John is prepared to fight for your rights.

Serving Clients in Haddonfield, NJ, Accused of Violent Crimes

New Jersey defines a violent crime as any act of violence or threatening to use violence. At The Law Offices of Christopher St. John, we understand the implications of being charged with a violent crime can have on both your present and future.

Our firm has decades of experience representing clients regarding the following offenses:

• Murder
• Attempted Murder
• Manslaughter
• Aggravated assault
• Armed Robbery
• Kidnapping
• Serious sex crimes
• Vehicular homicide

New Jersey Violent Crime Penalties

New Jersey classifies crimes into four degrees: first-, second-, third-, and fourth degree (most to least severe).

Under New Jersey law, the following punishments are associated with each degree classification:

• First-degree: 10-20 years in prison and $200,000 in fines
• Second-degree: 5-10 years in prison and $150,000 in fines
• Third-degree: 3-5 years in prison and $15,000 in fines
• Fourth-degree: No more than 18 months in prison and $10,000 in fines
• Disorderly persons offense: No more than six months in prison and $1,000 in fines
• Petty disorderly persons offense: Maximum fine of $500

Your punishment will depend on the nature and severity of the offense committed. Violent crimes typically fall into first- and second-degree categories. In 2007, the New Jersey legislature abolished the death penalty, making it the first state in over 40 years to do so.

Defenses that May Be Available to You

If you have been charged with a violent crime, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will investigate the circumstances behind the event to develop the best defense strategy.

Common violent crime defenses may include:

Self-Defense

Under New Jersey law, you have a duty to retreat if someone is attacking you. If you have reason to believe that your life or another person’s life is in danger, then you are allowed to use deadly force to protect yourself. When the defense is raised, the prosecution has the burden of proving that the level of force used was unjustified.

However, under the Castle Doctrine, you are allowed to use deadly force to defend yourself against an intruder in your own home. In this scenario, the use of deadly force would not constitute a criminal offense.

Mistaken Identity/Alibi

An absolute defense, if someone else committed the crime, then proving this will end litigation in your favor. Generally, being wrongfully charged with a crime is usually the result of mistaken identity. Having witnesses who can testify to your whereabouts during the commission of the crime is extremely beneficial to have the charges against you dropped.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If a police officer searched your residence or vehicle without a warrant or probable cause, this is deemed in violation of your Fourth Amendment rights. As a result, any evidence collected from the unlawful search will most likely need to be discarded. If the search produced evidence key to the state’s case, your charges may be dropped or dismissed.

Violent Crime Attorney Serving Haddonfield, NJ, and the Surrounding Area

A violent crime can place your freedom and financial peace at risk. In addition to prison time, you may have to pay fines to the court, the victim, or both. To avoid these penalties, it is important that you speak with a New Jersey violent crime attorney. To schedule your free consultation, contact us by phone at 856-296-3481 or online.