Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer in Mercer County, NJ
Obtaining money by false pretenses is a serious theft crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4, prosecuted in the Mercer County Superior Court. A conviction can mean years in prison, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are under investigation or charged, you need an experienced obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Mercer County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is 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, including money, by creating or reinforcing a false impression. This is a form of theft by deception. The prosecution must prove you knowingly deceived someone to get them to give you money or property they would not have otherwise parted with.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The foundation of our defense strategy is built on the specific elements the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. As a firm founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, we understand how to challenge the evidence of intent and deception.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4 (New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and locations, visit the Mercer Vicinage website.
Facing False Pretenses Charges in Mercer County Court
Charges for obtaining money by false pretenses are filed in the Mercer County Superior Court, Criminal Division, located at 175 South Broad Street in Trenton. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office handles these cases aggressively, often seeking restitution and jail time. An affordable obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Mercer County can be critical to handling this process.
- Initial Appearance: You will be formally advised of the charges against you at an arraignment.
- Discovery Phase: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution, including witness statements and financial records.
- Pre-Trial Motions: A skilled lawyer can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if your rights were violated.
- Plea Negotiations: Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor, often seeking a reduction to a lesser offense or a favorable plea agreement.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial where the state must prove every element.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the circumstances.
Potential Penalties for Obtaining Money by False Pretenses
In Mercer County, obtaining money by false pretenses is graded based on the amount involved, with penalties ranging from a disorderly persons offense to a second-degree crime carrying 5-10 years in prison.
| Value of Property/Money | Crime Degree | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 or more | 2nd Degree | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Restitution, felony record |
| $1,000 to $74,999 | 3rd Degree | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, felony record |
| $200 to $999 | 4th Degree | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
| Under $200 | Disorderly Persons | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Mercer County Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in fraud and theft cases. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results for obtaining money by false pretenses in Mercer County are not publicly listed, our firm has a proven track record across our service areas. We have secured dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in hundreds of theft and fraud-related cases. Every case is unique, but our consistent approach is to scrutinize the evidence of intent and deception.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact an Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Near Me Mercer County
If you need an obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer near me Mercer County, our New Jersey location serves clients throughout the region. Our location is accessible via I-95, Route 1, and the NJ Turnpike, making it convenient for clients from Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton Township, Ewing, and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 334-7465
By appointment only.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Mercer County FAQ
What is the difference between theft by deception and false pretenses?
In New Jersey, “theft by deception” (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4) is the legal term that includes obtaining money by false pretenses. They are the same charge, involving the use of deception to unlawfully take property.
Can I go to jail for a first-time false pretenses charge?
It depends on the degree of the charge. A first-time disorderly persons offense may not carry jail time, but a second, third, or fourth-degree crime carries state prison exposure. An experienced obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Mercer County can fight for alternatives like probation or Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI).
What defenses are available against false pretenses charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to deceive, good faith belief you were entitled to the money, insufficient evidence, mistaken identity, or that the alleged misrepresentation was not material to the transaction. Your attorney will identify the strongest defense based on the facts.
Is restitution mandatory if I am convicted?
Yes. New Jersey courts almost always order restitution to the victim as part of the sentence for a theft conviction. The amount must be proven, and your lawyer can negotiate or challenge the claimed loss.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me about a fraud investigation?
No. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. Anything you say can be used to build a case against you. Contact a lawyer first.
How can an affordable obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Mercer County help?
An affordable lawyer provides essential legal protection without undue financial strain. They can secure evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, file motions, and represent you at trial—all critical steps that can drastically affect the outcome of your case and your future.
Related Practice Areas in Mercer County: If you are facing other charges, we also handle business fraud, contract disputes, and federal criminal charges.
Other Locations: We also assist clients in Atlantic County, Bergen County, and Burlington County.
Learn More: For a broader overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Your case in Mercer 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 Mercer County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage (7th Vicinage), 175 South Broad Street, Trenton, NJ 08650, telephone (609) 571-4200, 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 Mercer 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: Mercer 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.