New Brunswick NJ Third Degree Offense Lawyer
The largest block of indictable charges heard at the Middlesex County Superior Court are third degree crimes. Irrespective of the nature of the criminal offense, the greatest probability is that an indictment will involve a third degree crime. Although this may be the case, an offense falling within this grade is a felony carries of $10,000 in potential fines and can result in as much as 5 years in prison. In you were arrested and/or charged with a third degree crime in Piscataway, Woodbridge, Monroe, Old Bridge or Edison, there is little doubt that you need to be represented by a skilled attorney. The lawyers in our New Brunswick Office include Jason Seidman, a former Middlesex County Prosecutor, and other savvy advocates who make up a team with over 100 years of experience. A lawyer with the knowledge and tools to successfully defend you at the county courthouse in New Brunswick is ready to meet you for a free consultation or over the telephone at 732-246-7126.
Penalties For A Third Degree Crime: Fines & Jail Time
The fines and jail time that apply in the event of conviction for a third degree crime are significant. The fine can reach $15,000. As if this wasn’t intimidating enough, a conviction can result in a five (5) year jail sentence.
Common 3rd Degree Crimes
As stated, there is a wide range of offenses that fall within this grade of offense. There are some charges that are, however, filed more often than others. The following are some of them:
- Shoplifting Involving Merchandise With a Value Between $500 and $75,000
- Possession of Heroin
- Intent to Distribute Marijuana (if weight is between 1 ounce and 5 pounds)
- Aggravated Assault (except where “serious bodily injury” is involved)
- Prescription Drug Fraud
- Terroristic Threats
Presumptions When It Comes to Jail
If a defendant has no prior record, there is a presumption that he or she should be subject to probation rather than jail. If, however, the individual has a previous criminal conviction, the presumptive range of prison is between 3-5 years.
Pretrial Intervention for 3rd Degree Charges
New Jersey law permits “diversion” of certain criminal offenses by way of a program known as Pretrial Intervention or PTI. An individual can avoid prosecution through this program, as well a criminal record.
Immigration Consequences If Convicted
Federal law provides for removal of non-citizens who have been convicted of an aggravated felony. While there is an array of third degree charges that are considered aggravated felonies, possession and distribution of scheduled drugs like heroin, cocaine, and other forms of CDS are the biggest issues at this offense grade.
Experienced Middlesex County Third Degree Crime Lawyers
The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall is prepared to fight for you at every step of the process. You deserve that best defense possible and our attorneys will challenge the prosecution when it comes to the proofs necessary to establish the third degree offense that has been charged in East Brunswick, Sayreville, New Brunswick, Helmetta or Metuchen. A lawyer is prepared to discuss your case now. Contact our East Brunswick Office at 732-227-1200 to speak to a knowledgeable attorney immediately.
Helpful Link: The Criminal Justice Process Published by the NJ Judiciary.
