Criminal Law in Burlington County

Burlington County, New Jersey is a diverse region spanning suburban communities near Philadelphia, rural townships, and the historic city of Mount Holly, all governed by New Jersey criminal statutes and procedures. With a population exceeding 460,000 residents and major roadways like the New Jersey Turnpike and Route 130 running through the county, criminal matters ranging from traffic offenses to serious felonies arise regularly. Whether you are a resident, commuter, or visitor facing criminal charges, the consequences under New Jersey law can be severe and life-altering. An experienced Criminal Law lawyer in Burlington County can protect your rights, navigate the local court system, and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.

Courts Handling Criminal Law Cases in Burlington County

Criminal matters in Burlington County are primarily handled by the Burlington County Superior Court, located in Mount Holly, which manages indictable offenses (felonies) through its Criminal Division. Disorderly persons offenses and petty disorderly persons offenses — the equivalent of misdemeanors in New Jersey — are heard at the local municipal courts scattered throughout the county, including courts in Evesham Township, Moorestown, Medford, and Mount Holly. The Burlington County Prosecutor's Office works in conjunction with these courts to prosecute criminal cases at all levels.

Common Criminal Law Situations in Burlington County

Some of the most frequent criminal matters handled by Burlington County lawyers include drug possession and distribution charges, DWI and DUI offenses on the county's busy roadways, theft and shoplifting cases, and domestic violence-related charges. Assault, weapons offenses, and motor vehicle violations that carry criminal penalties are also commonly seen throughout the county's municipalities. Juvenile delinquency matters are additionally handled through the Family Division of the Burlington County Superior Court, making legal representation important for young residents and their families.

Penalties and Outcomes in New Jersey

Under New Jersey law, criminal offenses are classified as indictable crimes of the first through fourth degree, with first-degree crimes carrying sentences of 10 to 20 years in state prison and fines up to $200,000. Disorderly persons offenses can result in up to six months in county jail and fines of up to $1,000, while petty disorderly persons offenses carry up to 30 days in jail. Beyond incarceration and fines, New Jersey convictions can result in a permanent criminal record, loss of driving privileges, immigration consequences, and restrictions on employment and housing.

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Why Go To Court for Criminal Law in Burlington County

Go To Court Lawyers connects residents of Burlington County with knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys who understand New Jersey's complex criminal code and the specific procedures of the Burlington County Superior Court and local municipal courts. With free 24/7 legal information available and a lawyer booking service coming soon, Go To Court is committed to making quality criminal defense accessible to everyone in Burlington County.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an indictable crime and a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, indictable crimes are the equivalent of felonies under federal law and are classified into four degrees — first through fourth — with first-degree being the most serious. These cases are handled by the Burlington County Superior Court and can result in significant state prison sentences. Disorderly persons offenses, by contrast, are handled at the municipal court level and carry lesser penalties, though they can still result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record.

Can a criminal record be expunged in New Jersey?

New Jersey law does allow for the expungement of certain criminal records under N.J.S.A. 2C:52-1 et seq., which can clear arrests, charges, and convictions from your record under qualifying conditions. The waiting period for expungement depends on the type and severity of the offense, ranging from as little as one year for certain municipal matters to five or more years for indictable crimes. An experienced Burlington County criminal lawyer can evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the expungement petition process in the Superior Court.

What should I do if I am arrested in Burlington County?

If you are arrested in Burlington County, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney under both the United States Constitution and New Jersey law. You should clearly and calmly invoke these rights and avoid making any statements to law enforcement until you have spoken with a criminal defense lawyer. Contacting a lawyer as early as possible in the process is critical, as statements made during or after an arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

How does New Jersey's bail reform affect criminal cases in Burlington County?

New Jersey implemented comprehensive bail reform in 2017, largely eliminating cash bail in favor of a risk-based pretrial detention system governed by the New Jersey Bail Reform and Speedy Trial Act. Under this system, defendants are assessed using the Public Safety Assessment tool, and a judge decides whether to release or detain a defendant based on risk to public safety and likelihood of appearance in court. This means that in Burlington County, as throughout New Jersey, whether you are detained before trial depends on judicial discretion and the arguments made by your attorney at a detention hearing.

What are the penalties for a DWI conviction in New Jersey?

A first-offense DWI conviction in New Jersey under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 can result in fines between $250 and $400 for a BAC below 0.10%, or $300 to $500 for a BAC of 0.10% or higher, along with potential jail time of up to 30 days and a driver's license suspension. Subsequent offenses carry significantly harsher penalties, including longer license suspensions, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and increased jail sentences. DWI is not a criminal offense under New Jersey law but is a serious motor vehicle offense with lasting consequences, making legal representation in Burlington County municipal court highly advisable.