Felony Defense Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Options?
A felony charge in Somerset County is an indictable crime under N.J.S.A. Title 2C, prosecuted in Superior Court with potential for years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for serious criminal charges. Our felony defense lawyer Somerset County team, led by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, understands the local system at 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
In New Jersey, a felony is legally called an “indictable crime.” These are the most serious offenses, classified by degree from first (most severe) to fourth. All indictable crimes are handled by the Somerset County Superior Court, Criminal Division, located at 20 North Bridge Street in Somerville. The New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice (N.J.S.A. Title 2C) defines these crimes and their penalties. A conviction can result in state prison time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licenses.
New Jersey’s legal system underwent a major change with the 2017 Criminal Justice Reform Act, which abolished cash bail. This means your release before trial is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) score that evaluates your risk of flight and danger to the community, not your ability to pay money. Understanding this new pretrial process is a critical first step in building your defense strategy with a felony defense lawyer Somerset County.
- Initial Arrest & Complaint: The process begins with an arrest and the filing of a complaint. You will have a first appearance before a judge, who will review the PSA and set conditions for your release.
- Case Review & Discovery: Your attorney will obtain all evidence (discovery) from the prosecution, including police reports, witness statements, and forensic reports, to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
- Grand Jury Presentation: For most indictable crimes, the prosecutor must present evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment. Your attorney cannot be present but can advise you beforehand.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if your rights were violated. Simultaneously, they will negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea deal, PTI, or other favorable resolution.
- Trial or Resolution: If a plea agreement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial in Superior Court, where your attorney will present a full defense.
- Sentencing or Diversion: Following a conviction or guilty plea, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible. If eligible for PTI, they will guide you through the program for a dismissal.
In Somerset County, an indictable crime (felony) carries severe penalties: 4th degree up to 18 months; 3rd degree 3-5 years; 2nd degree 5-10 years; 1st degree 10-20 years in state prison, plus fines and a permanent record.
| Offense Degree | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Degree | Indictable Crime | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Presumption of imprisonment; parole ineligibility |
| 2nd Degree | Indictable Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Presumption of imprisonment |
| 3rd Degree | Indictable Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | State prison |
| 4th Degree | Indictable Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | State prison or county jail |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We provide “Advocacy Without Borders,” offering full representation for serious criminal charges in Somerset County. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep commitment to impacting the law in our clients’ favor.
Our firm actively practices in Somerset County. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We have successfully defended clients facing charges from drug distribution to aggravated assault, securing dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Somerset County courts in Somerville. We represent individuals from Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. If you need a felony defense lawyer near Somerset County, contact us 24/7 for a phone consultation.
Felony Defense Lawyer Somerset County FAQ
Does New Jersey have cash bail?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in January 2017 under the Criminal Justice Reform Act. Pretrial release in Somerset County is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) — a computerized risk score, not money. There are no bail bondsmen in NJ.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) in Somerset County, New Jersey?
PTI is a diversionary program for first-time indictable (felony) offenders in Somerset County. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision results in complete dismissal of charges. Applications are processed through Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage.
Can I get my NJ criminal record expunged?
Yes. NJ allows expungement after waiting periods: 5 years for indictable crimes, 2 years for disorderly persons. NJ’s Clean Slate law expanded eligibility. PTI completions result in automatic dismissal. Petitions are filed in Somerset County Superior Court.
What is a disorderly persons offense in Somerset County, NJ?
A disorderly persons offense is NJ’s equivalent of a misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail/$1,000 fine. Heard in Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage. Petty disorderly persons: up to 30 days/$500. Indictable crimes (felonies) are heard in Somerset County Superior Court.
What should I do if I am under investigation for a felony in Somerset County?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a felony defense lawyer Somerset County. An attorney can intervene during the investigation, potentially preventing charges from being filed or influencing the direction of the case.
For more information, review the New Jersey statutes or visit the Somerset Vicinage court website. Explore our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub or learn about defense in neighboring areas like Hunterdon County. For other legal needs, see our pages on Somerset County DUI defense or Somerset County family law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.
