Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer in Hunterdon County, NJ
If you are charged with obtaining money by false pretenses in Hunterdon County, you face serious felony charges under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4. This crime involves using deception to get someone else’s property and can lead to years in prison and heavy fines. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Obtaining Money by False Pretenses in New Jersey
In New Jersey, the crime of obtaining money by false pretenses is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4. This law makes it illegal to purposely obtain property of another by deception. The deception must create or reinforce a false impression, such as a false statement about past events, current facts, or future intentions. The core of the charge is the intent to defraud the victim at the time the property is transferred.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Hunterdon Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand that these charges often stem from misunderstandings or failed business dealings, not criminal intent. Our approach focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence of deceptive intent and the specific value of the property involved.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures and forms for Hunterdon County are available through the New Jersey Courts Hunterdon Vicinage website.
Defending Against False Pretenses Charges in Hunterdon County
Prosecutors in the Hunterdon County Superior Court take fraud allegations seriously. A key local procedural fact is that the value of the property obtained directly determines the degree of the crime and potential penalties. Early intervention by an experienced obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer near me Hunterdon County is critical to investigate the allegations, secure evidence, and begin building a defense before formal charges are filed.
- Immediate Case Review: Contact our firm as soon as you are aware of an investigation or charges. We will analyze the allegations and the property valuation.
- Evidence Preservation: We work to secure communications, contracts, or receipts that may show a lack of intent to defraud or a misunderstanding.
- Pre-Indictment Negotiation: We may engage with the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office before formal charges to present mitigating facts.
- Formal Defense Filing: If charged, we file motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence, particularly regarding the element of deception.
- Trial or Resolution: We prepare a vigorous defense for trial or negotiate for a favorable resolution, such as a reduction to a disorderly persons offense.
Potential Penalties for Obtaining Money by False Pretenses
In Hunterdon County, obtaining money by false pretenses is graded by the value of the property involved, with penalties ranging from a disorderly persons offense to a crimey of the second degree carrying 5-10 years in state prison.
| Property Value | Crime Degree | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 or more | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Restitution, felony record |
| $1,000 to $74,999 | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, felony record |
| $200 to $999 | 4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
| Under $200 | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Restitution, local jail record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
With a founding date of 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of focused experience to fraud defense. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, uses his background as a former prosecutor to anticipate the strategies of the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office. We provide clear, direct guidance through every step of the legal process.
Our Approach to Your Case
We begin every case by conducting a thorough investigation to challenge the prosecution’s claim of deceptive intent. Was there a genuine misunderstanding or a broken promise rather than a criminal scheme? We scrutinize the evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with financial professionals if necessary. Our goal is to secure a favorable outcome, whether through case dismissal, charge reduction, or a strong defense at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Hunterdon County Fraud Defense Lawyer
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Hunterdon County, including Flemington, Clinton, Lambertville, and Readington. We are accessible via I-78, Route 31, and Route 202. If you need an affordable obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Hunterdon County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your situation and options.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between theft and obtaining money by false pretenses?
It depends on the method. Theft generally involves taking property without permission. Obtaining money by false pretenses specifically requires that the property was given over due to a deception or false statement made by the defendant.
Can I go to jail for a first-time false pretenses charge in NJ?
Yes. New Jersey law imposes jail or prison time based on the degree of the crime, not solely on whether it is a first offense. For a third-degree crime (value $1,000+), state prison is a possibility. An experienced lawyer can fight for alternatives like probation.
What should I do if I am contacted by police about a fraud accusation?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf to protect your rights from the very start of the case.
How is the value of the property determined in these cases?
Value is typically the market value of the money, property, or services obtained. The prosecution must prove this value beyond a reasonable doubt. A defense lawyer can challenge their valuation method, which can potentially lower the degree of the charge and the penalties.
Is restitution always required?
In nearly all convictions for obtaining money by false pretenses, the court will order restitution to the victim as part of the sentence. This is a separate financial obligation from any fines imposed by the court.
Related Legal Services in Hunterdon County
If you are facing related charges, our firm also handles business fraud and federal fraud charges. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Bergen County.
Page last verified and updated: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific case.
Your case in Hunterdon 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 Hunterdon County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Hunterdon Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 65 Park Avenue, Flemington, NJ 08822, telephone (908) 824-9750, 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 Hunterdon 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: Hunterdon County NJ lawyers directory · Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Monmouth County NJ Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer.