Trenton Offenses: What to Know if You’re Facing Charges

If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in Trenton, New Jersey, you probably have a lot of questions about what happens next. Getting legal advice from an experienced Trenton offenses lawyer can help guide you through the complex criminal justice system. This article provides an overview of common offenses charged in Trenton, potential penalties, and legal defenses that a local criminal defense attorney may be able to assert on your behalf.

Types of Offenses Frequently Charged in Trenton

Trenton has its fair share of crime, like any mid-sized city. According to FBI crime statistics, property crimes like burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft are most prevalent. However, authorities also charge many offenses involving violence, weapons, and controlled substances. Some charges seen often in Trenton criminal cases include:

• Assault and battery offenses – Different levels from simple assault to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Penalties vary based on the harm caused to victims.
• Drug possession charges – Both minor marijuana possession and more serious controlled substances like cocaine or heroin.
• Gun and weapons charges – Unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon among others.
• Theft crimes – Shoplifting, burglary, robbery, carjacking, theft by deception and more. Value of property stolen impacts penalties.
• Domestic violence offenses – Simple or aggravated assault against a family member or partner. Extensive penalties in NJ for repeat DV offenses.
• Sex crimes – From criminal sexual contact to aggravated sexual assault. Megan’s law registration may be required after release.

Those facing criminal charges have the right to the presumption of innocence until the state meets its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. An experienced local defense lawyer thoroughly investigates the allegations and identifies weaknesses in the prosecution’s case in order to build the strongest defense.

Potential Penalties Depend on the Offense & Defendant’s Record

The potential penalties if convicted of an offense in Trenton varies case-by-case. Factors judges consider when sentencing include:

• The criminal statute violated – Each NJ offense sets sentencing ranges and mandatory minimums. More serious crimes mean lengthier sentences.
• Defendant’s prior record – Repeat offenders face stiffer penalties while first-time offenders may get probation.
• Mitigating circumstances – Reasons the defendant deserves leniency like addiction issues, childhood trauma, mental illness etc.

While probation is possible for minor first-time offenses, any felony conviction means serious incarceration time in state prison. The stakes are high so those charged with Trenton crimes need an attorney to advise them and negotiate firmly with prosecutors.

This sentencing chart provides estimated sentencing ranges for common NJ offenses based on the degree of crime and whether the defendant has prior convictions. Fines, license suspension, community service and restitution may be imposed instead of or in addition to incarceration.

Possible Defenses to Trenton Criminal Charges

Skilled Trenton criminal defense attorneys know how to analyze the prosecution’s evidence and identify every conceivable defense. While the facts of each case are unique, some possible defenses they may pursue include:

• Lack of criminal intent – For most crimes prosecutors must prove the defendant intended to commit the illegal act. Evidence of intoxication, insanity, or mistaken identity could negate intent.
• Self defense – Use of force was legally justified to protect oneself from imminent harm or death. Domestic violence victims sometimes lawfully act in self defense.
• Consent defense – Applies to assault, sexual crimes and some theft/destruction of property cases. Evidence the “victim” consented may defeat charges.
• Illegal search and seizure – If evidence was obtained improperly in violation of defendant’s 4th or 5th Amendment rights, it may be excluded at trial.
• Entrapment – Government agents induced the defendant to commit an offense they otherwise wouldn’t have. Rare but potential defense vs. undercover drug stings.
• Misidentification – Eyewitnesses mistakes cause many wrongful convictions. An alibi, fingerprints, DNA or video may prove the defendant wasn’t the perpetrator.

This overview covers just a few examples. Creative lawyering combined with an in-depth investigation can uncover other procedural flaws, evidentiary issues or constitutional violations. Every case has weaknesses to exploit in the defendant’s favor.

Why Trenton Offenses Require a Top Local Criminal Lawyer

The complexity of criminal law procedure, severity of penalties, and risk of permanent life-changing consequences make navigating Trenton offense cases extremely challenging. Those accused of crimes need an assertive lawyer who knows the local courts, prosecutors and judges in order to get charges reduced or dismissed pre-trial. If a trial becomes necessary, their trench experience litigating in Trenton is invaluable.

Trenton offenses lawyers also guide clients through the confusing post-conviction process. They advise on plea agreements terms and conditions, ensure proper credit for time served pre-trial, refer clients to rehab programs when applicable, and prepare thorough appeals attacking procedural defects, legal errors and excessive sentences. Their representation doesn’t end once you’re convicted or take a plea.

Don’t go it alone against experienced police and prosecutors without capable legal guidance. The risk is too great. Consult with a Trenton criminal attorney as soon as charges are filed to discuss the allegations and start building a defense strategy right away. Every day that passes means evidence disappears and witness memories fade. Time is of the essence.

Most firms offer free case evaluations so those accused of crimes can ask questions and weigh options before spending money to retain counsel. Find out if they have experience with your type of charges and success getting favorable outcomes for past clients. Comparison shop to find the best attorney within your budget. Balance cost considerations with the skills and track record of the lawyer. Your future hangs in the balance so this is not the time to cut corners financially.

The stakes are high when facing Trenton offense charges that could result in substantial fines, years behind bars and a permanent criminal record. Get experienced legal help fighting the allegations by contacting a local Trenton criminal defense lawyer today.