New Brunswick Criminal Defense Attorney

New Jersey law firm defends clients against all types of allegations

Central Jersey has a great deal to offer the people who live, work and go to school here. But whether your life involves commuting to New York City, doing your job at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital or attending class at Rutgers, a criminal charge could change things forever. If you’re facing possible prison and a criminal record that could follow you forever, you want an attorney will fight for justice on your behalf rather than shake hands with the prosecutor and let you deal with what comes next. At the Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell, I am a New Brunswick criminal defense attorney with more than 25 years of experience safeguarding the fundamental rights of clients across Middlesex, Somerset and Union counties. My firm is ready to challenge the authorities if you’ve been accused of any type of criminal offense. 

Common criminal charges in cases that we handle

Focusing exclusively on criminal defense, my firm offers strategic advocacy to New Jersey residents in matters related the following allegations:

• Drug crimes — As an experienced drug crimes lawyer, I know that police officers frequently take shortcuts when seizing evidence involving controlled substances. Whether your case involves a charge of possession, distribution or some other illicit drug-related activity, I will push back against overzealous authorities. 
• Drunk driving — Just because your intoxication test result exceeded the applicable limit does not meant that there are no potential defenses to a DWI charge. My firm will thoroughly review to assess if proper legal grounds existed for the stop and if the breath or blood sample might have been tainted. 

• Sex crimes — Charges such as sexual assault and criminal sexual contact are indictable offenses (felonies) in New Jersey. Punishments vary widely based on the details of each case. Many of these cases hinge on questions of consent, so it is vital to retain a lawyer who is highly skilled at investigation and cross-examination.  
• Assault and battery — Under New Jersey law, assault involves a threat of physical harm, while battery requires unwanted contact. You might have been arrested on one or both of these charges who did not understand that you were appropriately defending yourself or someone else.

• Domestic violence — A claim of domestic violenceagainst you could trigger a criminal case as well as a civil restraining order. These situations are often very complicated and I will work to make sure that your side of the story is heard. 
• Theft — Whether the specific allegations in your case relate to shoplifting, robbery, embezzlement or another type of theft-related offense, my firm will examine the circumstances and develop a sound defense plan. 
• Homicide— Cases stemming from someone’s death could result in a decades-long prison sentence, so you need a defense attorney who has successfully represented defendants in high-level prosecutions. 
• Weapons offenses — If you’re facing gun charges or counts related to the unlawful possession or use of another weapon, my firm will counter unwarranted allegations and assert your legal rights. 

With tens of thousands of college students in the Central Jersey area, there can be situations where these young adults are targeted by law enforcement. I have a strong commitment to students at Rutgers and other schools, and provide strong legal defense when they are accused of criminal misconduct. I also have a detailed understanding of New Jersey’s juvenile justice system and work to help youths avoid unfair long-term consequences when they are accused of improper behavior. To that end, I also assist clients who seek to expunge old criminal records so that they are restricted due to a long-ago mistake. 

Frequently asked questions about criminal charges

What should I do if I’m arrested?

Regardless of the charge or circumstances, contacting our New Brunswick criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest is the best way to preserve your rights and avoid potentially costly errors. Don’t be bullied or cajoled it saying something against your interests. I am here to help.

Can charges be dropped before trial?

Yes, there are many reasons why a prosecutor might dismiss charges prior to trial. They are more inclined to take this step if a defendant is represented by an experienced defense lawyer who can find the flaws in their case and defeat them in court. 

How long does a criminal case take?

Each criminal case is unique, and there are numerous factors that can affect how long the legal process can take. You can rest assured however, that I will never consider an unfair deal on your behalf just to close a file at a certain date. My firm will stand and fight for the best possible result. 

What are the possible penalties for my charges?

New Jersey law includes many possible penalties for criminal convictions, including incarceration, fines and probation. My goal is to achieve the result that minimizes the disruption to my client’s life. That might be a dismissal or acquittal. In other situations, that might involve pursuing an alternative to imprisonment, such as substance abuse treatment for someone convicted of a drug offense. 

Do I need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?

Absolutely. First of all, even if you believe the authorities have a strong case against you, flaws in the law enforcement process might lead to the exclusion of key evidence against you. A knowledgeable attorney can also advise you on defenses that you might not have realized were available. Even if you ultimately are comfortable with a guilty plea, a skillful advocate can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduced charge and lower sentence in exchange for giving up your right to trial. 

Respected attorney guides clients through the expungement process

If the right conditions are met, people who have been arrested or charged with crimes in New Jersey can have their criminal records cleared. Expungements are available for certain indictable offenses and disorderly persons offenses. If you qualify, my office can prepare and file the necessary expungement documentation and represent you during hearings.

Contact an accomplished New Jersey criminal defense lawyer for a free consultation

The Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell in New Brunswick represents clients throughout Middlesex, Somerset and Union counties in a wide range of criminal defense matters. Please call 908-768-3837 or contact me online for your complimentary consultation.