Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Freehold, NJ

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Freehold, New Jersey?

  The police department at Freehold takes routine calls at 732-462-7908.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Freehold, New Jersey?

  You can obtain copies of police reports at 1 Municipal Plaza in Freehold. The Record Bureau can be contacted by calling 732-294-2116.

• Can a resident of Freehold be criminally liable for owning an airsoft gun?

  Yes, a resident of Freehold may be held criminally liable for owning an airsoft gun. The township is covered by New Jersey's strict gun laws, which classify BB guns and airsoft products as firearms. Thus, the ownership of one is usually illegal unless a person has the necessary permits for purchase.

• What are the defenses available to individuals in Freehold who have been criminally charged with the possession of illegal drugs?

  Individuals in Freehold who have been criminally charged with the possession of illegal drugs may contest their liability by proving that the search of their property that revealed the contraband was illegally done. Searches must be conducted with a warrant or fall under the exceptions to the warrant rule. Otherwise, the evidence obtained will be inadmissible in court, and if the prosecution has nothing else to use, the defendant might be acquitted.

• Can a person in Freehold be charged with lewdness if they masturbate in their bedroom and were seen by a neighbor who was using binoculars?

  No, a person in Freehold engaged in masturbation did not commit a lewd act even if their neighbor saw them using binoculars. An element of the crime of lewdness is that the sexually offensive act must be conducted under circumstances where public visibility could be reasonably anticipated. In this set of facts, the defendant was clearly trying to remain private by being in their room, and it’s not normal to expect that one’s neighbor has binoculars.

• May a person accused of fraud in Freehold be exonerated criminally if it is shown that there was no intention or knowledge of any intent to steal from others?

  It may be possible to be exonerated of fraud charges in Freehold if there is a lack of criminal intent or knowledge on the part of the accused. There are crimes where the defendant is not liable in the absence of any ill designs. However, there might be negligence involved, which would constitute a tortious act under civil law.

• When could a person in Freehold obtain an expungement of past criminal records?

  People in Freehold could secure expungements if they were arrested but their charges were dropped before the court could reach a verdict, or if they were acquitted. If an individual has been convicted, their offense must be relatively light, like a municipal ordinance violation punished by less than half a year in jail. Drug offenders are also qualified once they have completed mandatory rehabilitation.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.