Burlington County Fleeing a Police Officer Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Fleeing a police officer in Burlington County is a serious criminal offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2, often charged as eluding, which can be a second-degree crime. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including state prison time. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides dedicated defense for those accused of fleeing a police officer in Burlington County.
Understanding the Law on Fleeing a Police Officer in New Jersey
In New Jersey, the crime of fleeing or eluding a police officer is governed by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2. The law makes it illegal for any person, while operating a motor vehicle, to knowingly flee or attempt to elude a police officer after receiving a visual or audible signal to bring the vehicle to a stop. The severity of the charge escalates based on the circumstances, such as creating a risk of death or injury to any person, which can elevate the offense to a second-degree crime.
Last verified: March 2026 | Burlington County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the eluding statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and forms, visit the New Jersey Courts Burlington Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for a Fleeing Charge in Burlington County
Fleeing a police officer charges in Burlington County begin with an arrest and complaint. The case is then heard in the Burlington County Superior Court, Criminal Division. The prosecution must prove you knowingly fled after an officer’s lawful signal. An affordable fleeing a police officer lawyer Burlington County can challenge the state’s evidence, such as whether the signal was proper or if you had the required intent.
- Your first appearance (arraignment) will be in Burlington County Superior Court, where you enter a plea.
- Your attorney will file pre-trial motions, potentially to suppress evidence or dismiss the complaint.
- Engage in discovery, reviewing all police reports, dashcam footage, and witness statements.
- Negotiate with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office for a potential plea to a lesser offense.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for and proceed to a jury trial in Superior Court.
- If convicted, advocate for a mitigated sentence at the sentencing hearing.
Potential Penalties for Fleeing a Police Officer in New Jersey
In Burlington County, fleeing a police officer (eluding) is typically a third-degree crime but becomes a second-degree crime if the flight creates a risk of death or injury, carrying 5-10 years in state prison.
| Offense Level | Crime Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eluding (Base) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years State Prison | Up to $15,000 | Mandatory 1-2 year suspension | Felony record, increased insurance |
| Eluding (Creating Risk) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years State Prison | Up to $150,000 | Mandatory 1-2 year suspension | Extended parole ineligibility |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Burlington County Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a foundational understanding of the prosecution’s strategy to your defense. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases. Our approach is built on thorough case investigation and assertive advocacy in New Jersey courtrooms.
Case Results for Fleeing and Eluding Charges
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of achieving favorable results in criminal cases. While every case is unique, our firm-wide track includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In cases involving fleeing a police officer, our objectives are to have charges dismissed, reduced to a lesser traffic offense, or to secure an acquittal at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Fleeing a Police Officer Lawyer Near Me Burlington County
If you need a fleeing a police officer lawyer near me Burlington County, our firm is positioned to assist. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meet with clients by appointment only to discuss their fleeing a police officer charges in detail.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (856) 334-6477
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is fleeing a police officer a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. Fleeing or eluding is always charged as an indictable crime (New Jersey’s equivalent of a felony), either in the second or third degree, depending on the risk created during the flight.
Can I go to jail for a first-time fleeing charge?
It depends on the degree of the charge and the judge’s discretion. A third-degree eluding charge carries a presumption of non-incarceration for first-time offenders under New Jersey’s sentencing guidelines, but prison time is still possible, especially for a second-degree charge.
Will my license be suspended if I am convicted?
Yes. A conviction for eluding under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2 carries a mandatory driver’s license suspension of between one and two years, which is separate from any potential jail sentence.
What defenses are available against a fleeing charge?
Common defenses include arguing a lack of intent (you didn’t know it was a police officer), challenging the legality of the underlying stop, or presenting evidence that you stopped as soon as it was safely possible. An experienced fleeing a police officer lawyer Burlington County can evaluate the best defense for your case.
Should I just plead guilty to get it over with?
No. Given the severe, long-term consequences of a felony-level eluding conviction—including prison, fines, and license loss—you should always consult with an attorney to explore all your options for defense or negotiation before considering a plea.
Related Legal Services in Burlington County
If you are facing other charges related to a traffic stop, our firm can also help. We defend clients against reckless driving charges in Burlington County, DUI/DWI offenses, and other serious moving violations. For a full view of our practice, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your fleeing a police officer charges.
Burlington County cases are handled by our New Jersey fleeing a police officer practice, where the whole process is set out.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Fleeing a Police Officer Attorney Bergen County, NJ · Fleeing a Police Officer Attorney Hudson County, NJ · Fleeing a Police Officer Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.