Criminal Law

Trial attorney, Ted Baker, has extensive experience representing clients throughout New Jersey in all types of criminal matters, from municipal violations to indictable offenses. If you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey, you need a skilled attorney to ensure that your rights are protected. Ted Baker will fight for the best possible outcome in your case, whether it is a dismissal of charges, not-guilty verdict, lesser sentence, or other negotiated resolution.

Types of Criminal Offenses in New Jersey

Most states categorize crimes as either felonies or misdemeanors. However, in New Jersey, Criminal Code violations are referred to as either indictable or nonindictable. Indictable crimes are those that are punishable by up to 20 years in jail and $200,000 in fines. Conversely, nonindictable crimes, comprised of disorderly persons and petty disorderly persons offenses, are those punishable by up to six months in jail and $1,000 in fines.

Our South Jersey criminal defense team advocates for clients on all types of criminal matters, including:

Municipal Cases

Indictable offenses are adjudicated by the Superior Court within the county where the offense was allegedly committed, whereas nonindictable offenses may be heard by the Municipal Court in that county. Other types of cases typically heard by the municipal courts include motor vehicle offenses and traffic law violations, violations of state laws regarding fishing, hunting, or boating, and violations of municipal ordinances. While those accused of a municipal violation will typically pay a fine to resolve their case out of court, it is important to remember that paying the fine constitutes a guilty plea and may result in other legal consequences, such as the loss of your driver’s license, ineligibility for federal financial aid, and increased car insurance rates.

Division of Child Protection and Permanency Matters

The Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP), formerly known as the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS), is an agency within the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. It is responsible for investigating child abuse and neglect allegations received through a 24-hour hotline and, when appropriate, arranging for child protection and family treatment.

Those under investigation face serious consequences, including having their children removed from their custody, and should seek the counsel of a criminal defense attorney who is experienced in handling DCPP matters. Attorney Ted Baker has represented many clients in DCPP cases throughout New Jersey and can help ensure that your rights are protected.

Statute of Limitations

Criminal prosecutions must begin within a certain amount of time after the crime was allegedly committed. Once that time period has passed, charges may not be brought. The length of time allotted varies depending on the type of offense that was allegedly committed. Violent crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, and sexual assault, have no statute of limitations, whereas non-violent crimes generally have a one-year statute of limitations.

How a South Jersey Criminal Lawyer Can Help

Potential punishments and penalties vary depending on the level of criminal offense. However, convictions for both indictable and nonindictable offenses will appear on a defendant’s criminal record. This may negatively affect the individual’s future when applying for jobs or housing and may also justify the imposition of harsher sentences for future convictions.

A qualified attorney can help defendants understand their legal options and determine what course of action is in their best interest. Depending on the circumstances of the case, a skilled attorney can attempt to have criminal charges reduced or even dismissed entirely. Also, certain types of criminal offenses in New Jersey may be eligible for expungement.

South Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer Ted Baker Understands the Complexities of Criminal Law

South Jersey criminal defense lawyer, Ted Baker, can help you navigate the New Jersey criminal court system. At the Law Offices of Theodore J. Baker, our skilled legal team will fight for the best possible outcome in your case, whether that means having your charges downgraded, dismissed, or otherwise resolved. To discuss your case, please complete our online contact form or call us at 856-795-9400. Located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey.