Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Union City, NJ

FAQs

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

  The Union City Police Department takes non-emergency calls at 201-865-1111.

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

  The Police Records Room of the Union City Police Department is reachable at 201-348-5795, while the office is at 3715 Palisade Ave., Ground Flr, Union City, NJ 07087.

• How common are violent and property criminal offenses in Union City?

  The total crime rate in Union City, as per 2021 data, is 18.78 crimes for every 1,000 persons. Property crimes are far more common at 16.22 incidents for every thousand of the population, while violent crimes happen at a rate of 2.5 times per thousand people.

• What should a criminal defendant in Union City be on the lookout for when selecting a defense counsel?

  A criminal defendant in Union City should look for a lawyer who has the background and experience in criminal justice. Being a former prosecutor is preferable since it comes with knowledge of government methods and countermeasures. It is also ideal to hire someone who is skilled in federal and state litigation.

• How are criminal charges classified by severity in Union City?

  Criminal offenses in Union City are organized by severity into two general groups: misdemeanors and felonies. The former are less serious mishaps that are also referred to as disorderly person offenses ranging from simple assaults to small-time shoplifting and thefts. Felonies are severe violations that result in jail time exceeding a year. These charges range from forgery and internet harassment to aggravated sexual assault.

• When will a criminal defendant in Union City be placed in the sex offender registry?

  In order for a criminal defendant in Union City to be placed in the sex offender registry if convicted of a sex offense like aggravated sexual assault or found by the court to be delinquent. A person who is acquitted of an offense may still face registration if the acquittal was based on the insanity defense.

• If you have been convicted of two misdemeanors in Union City, is it still possible to successfully petition for an expungement of records?

  Yes, it is still possible for you to get an expungement of records in Union City and the state if you have two misdemeanors under your belt. While it is ideal for an individual to only have a single conviction on the record, it is possible to remove this from the public eye if the mishaps are minor disorderly persons offenses and there are only two at most.

• 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.