Most jurisdictions divide their criminal offenses into two categories: felonies and misdemeanors. However, this is not the case in New Jersey, where the most severe charges are referred to as indictable offenses. Despite the different names, a skilled criminal defense attorney could tell you that the consequences of a conviction can be severe.
Due to the high stakes, it is important that you rely on strong legal counsel following an arrest. Instead of pleading guilty, a Newark felony lawyer from The Law Office of Eric M. Mark could develop a defense strategy that helps you beat these charges.
Indictable offenses cover the most serious criminal acts, so it should come as no surprise that the penalty for being found guilty can be severe. That said, there is a broad range of sentences available across the four different categories of felonies that a Newark attorney could help you defend against.
First-degree felonies are the most serious crimes in New Jersey, and they come with the harshest possible penalties. Many of these charges bring up to 20 years, while others are capped at 30. For the worst crimes, there is the potential of life in prison. Fines can be up to $200,000 in these cases. Some examples include murder and aggravated sexual assault.
The next-highest tier includes serious charges like sexual assault, arson, and drug distribution. Judges in these cases can hand down prison terms of between five and ten years on top of a fine of up to $150,000.
Third-degree felonies include an array of serious offenses, like aggravated assault or terroristic threats. A conviction on one of these charges can result in a prison term between three and five years. There is also a maximum fine of $15,000.
This is the lowest tier of indictable offenses under New Jersey law. They carry a maximum jail term of 18 months and fines of no more than $10,000. Common charges include forgery, stalking, and shoplifting.
Due to the wide range of indictable offenses, it should come as no surprise that there is not a one-size-fits-all option for fighting back against the prosecution. The right strategy in one case might make little sense in another. One of the most important roles a Newark felony attorney could fill is determining how to approach each case.
A strong strategy option for every criminal case is holding the state to its burden of proof. Every prosecutor must show beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused is guilty. In many situations, it is possible to establish that this burden has not been met. With violent felonies, pleading self-defense might be an appropriate option. A person has the right to protect themselves from the reasonable fear of imminent harm, even if it means injuring the person threatening them.
For sex offenses, consent is often the most vigorous defense. That is not the case in circumstances where the alleged victim could not legally consent, like when it comes to juveniles.
If you have been charged with an indictable offense, now is the right time to act. Strong legal counsel could help you evaluate your options and determine how to defend yourself so you can move forward with your life.
Reach out to a Newark felony lawyer as soon as possible for a private consultation. Eric M. Mark could schedule an appointment at your convenience.
CALL US TODAY 