Bergen County Criminal Defense Attorney
Defending the Accused in New Jersey
When you are charged with a crime, you need a criminal defense lawyer who will be there for you. Law Office of Louis G. DeAngelis, LLC works hard to protect the rights of the accused. We understand how the system works, and our team can help get the best results for your case.
Schedule a free consultation with our Bergen County criminal defense lawyer today by calling (201) 254-8484.
How We Can Help
Our criminal defense attorney has represented clients in a wide variety of cases. Our team helps clients understand their options, and we closely guide them, helping them make the best choices for their case.
Our firm can handle a wide variety of cases, including:
- DUI
- Sex crimes
- Gun crimes
- Theft crimes
- Drug charges
- Violent crimes
- Juvenile crimes
- Domestic violence
- White-collar crimes
Our firm takes time to get to know you and your situation. We understand the circumstances surrounding your charges, and we can evaluate any evidence the prosecution has against you. We then work to build the strongest possible defense for your case. Our team is here for you every step of the way, from initial consultation to verdict.
Can You Go to Jail for a Misdemeanor in NJ?
Technically, NJ does not have misdemeanor crimes. Instead, the state uses the terms "disorderly persons offense" and "petty disorderly persons offense." Disorderly persons offenses are punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Petty disorderly persons offenses are less serious crimes, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. These cases go to the local municipal court in the city or town where the alleged crime occurred.
Some examples of disorderly persons offenses in New Jersey include:
- Trespassing
- Harassment
- Simple assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Shoplifting (value of less than $200)
- Possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana
What Are the Penalties for a Felony Conviction in NJ?
New Jersey calls its most serious crimes "indictable crimes" instead of “felonies.” These crimes are heard in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Criminal Division.
There are four degrees of indictable crimes in New Jersey:
- First-degree crime
- Second-degree crime
- Third-degree crime
- Fourth-degree crime
First-degree crimes are the most serious. Sentences for these crimes can go as high as 20 years to life, and fines can reach up to $200,000. Fourth-degree crimes are the least serious and are punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Some examples of indictable crimes in New Jersey include:
- Arson
- Robbery
- Burglary
- Homicide
- Sexual assault
- Aggravated assault
- Drug possession with intent to distribute
What Are Some Defenses to Criminal Charges?
There are many ways we can help you fight criminal allegations. We always work to build the strongest possible defense case on your behalf.
Defense strategies our team uses can include:
- Alibi
If you were somewhere else when the crime was committed, you could argue that you were incapable of committing the crime. This defense is called an “alibi,” and it can be particularly strong, especially if you have witnesses who can corroborate your story. - Entrapment
If you were enticed into committing a crime by law enforcement, this situation is called “entrapment.” Entrapment can be difficult to prove, but our team is here to help reveal the facts in your case. - Self-Defense
If you were acting in self-defense, you can use this fact as a defense against violent crime allegations. Our team can help you prepare for this complicated defense. - Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt. If they do not have enough evidence to meet this standard, we can argue that the case against you should be dropped or dismissed. - Violation of Your Constitutional Rights
The Constitution protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures and self-incrimination. If your rights were violated at any point during the investigation or arrest, our team can argue that certain evidence should be thrown out.
Our firm can thoroughly investigate your case and work to build a strategic defense on your behalf. We have the skills and the legal acumen to help guide your case to a positive conclusion.
Trust our team for a stellar legal defense in Bergen County and beyond. You can contact us online today to schedule your free consultation.
Your Side of the Story
From our office in Englewood, we serve greater New Jersey as well. Reach out today to set up your FREE consultation!
Don't Risk Your Future
Our Firm Is the Right Choice
At Law Office of Louis G. DeAngelis, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
-
Louis DeAngelis represented me in a few different cases with respect and professionalism. All the cases ended exactly the way they told me.
- P.L.M. -
For over 10 years I have used him for countless cases always with great satisfaction. On more than 10 occasions he has helped me resolve many different situations.
- Z.A. -
If you are in search of not only a great lawyer but a great person, Louis DeAngelis is the one! From the moment I contacted him about a car accident, he was professional and compassionate and kept me calm.
- K.G. -
If Louis takes your case, it is because he is confident that he can defend you and he will give you the best representation for your issue.
- D.S. -
Excellent in every way and I was not an easy client. So skilled and educated 1st class!!!!!! I was shocked at how well my ...
- H.P. -
I chose Louis Deangelis because he stood out amongst his competition in Bergen County. He was extremely thorough and ...
- M.A. -
The Law Office of Louis DeAngelis was an absolute pleasure to work with. The efficiency and speed with which this office ...
- R.L. -
Great service all around. Knows and understands the system and will treat you always as a first-class client. FIRST CLASS ...
- A.O.