Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Cape May County — What Are Your Defenses?
Obtaining money by false pretenses in Cape May County is a serious theft crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4, prosecuted in the 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 Cape May County to protect your rights.
Understanding the Charge of Obtaining Money by False Pretenses in New Jersey
The crime of obtaining money by false pretenses is defined under New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4. The law states that a person is guilty of theft by deception if they purposely obtain property of another by creating or reinforcing a false impression, including false statements about past events, current facts, or future intentions. The key element is the defendant’s intent to deceive the victim at the time the property is transferred.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Cape May Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has built a practice focused on defending against fraud and theft allegations. We understand that these cases often hinge on detailed financial records, witness credibility, and the specific intent of the accused.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4 (Official New Jersey Legislature) – The statute defining theft by deception.
- Cape May Vicinage Court Website – Official site for court locations, rules, and procedures.
Local Court Process for Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Cases in Cape May County
Cases for obtaining money by false pretenses in Cape May County are heard in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court, located in Cape May Court House. These are indictable offenses (similar to felonies), meaning the process begins with a complaint and proceeds through grand jury indictment unless waived. The Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office handles these cases, which often involve detailed financial investigations.
- Initial Complaint & Arrest/Warrant: A complaint is filed, often after a victim reports a financial loss. You may receive a summons or be arrested.
- First Appearance & Pretrial Detention Hearing: You will appear before a judge for formal reading of charges, advice of rights, and a determination on release conditions or detention under New Jersey’s bail reform.
- Pre-Indictment Phase & Discovery: Your obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer near me Cape May County will obtain discovery, review evidence, and may file motions to dismiss or engage in pre-indictment plea negotiations.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury to secure an indictment. Your attorney cannot be present but can advise you beforehand.
- Post-Indictment Arraignment & Pretrial Conferences: After indictment, you are arraigned on the formal accusation. The court will schedule status conferences to track discovery and negotiations.
- Trial or Disposition: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial in Superior Court, where the state must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for Obtaining Money by False Pretenses in NJ
In Cape May County, obtaining money by false pretenses penalties are based on the value of the property involved, ranging from a disorderly persons offense to a second-degree crime with severe prison time.
| Offense Degree (Based on Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than $200 | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months jail | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, restitution |
| $200 – $500 | Fourth-Degree Crime | Up to 18 months prison | Up to $10,000 | Felony record, restitution, possible probation |
| $500 – $75,000 | Third-Degree Crime | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | Felony record, significant restitution |
| $75,000 or more | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years prison | Up to $150,000 | Felony record, substantial restitution, extended parole ineligibility |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
All convictions require full restitution to the victim. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, we bring a depth of knowledge to fraud defense. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its cases. We provide affordable obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Cape May County services with clear fee structures and payment plans because we believe everyone deserves a strong defense.
Our Approach to Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Cases
We immediately work to secure all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and financial documents. A key defense in false pretenses cases is challenging the element of intent—arguing there was a misunderstanding, a failed business venture, or a lack of deceptive purpose. We may also challenge the valuation of the property involved, which directly impacts the degree of the charge. In many cases, we negotiate for a reduction to a lesser offense, such as a disorderly persons offense, or seek a pretrial intervention (PTI) program for eligible first-time offenders.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Cape May County Criminal Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Cape May County. We are accessible from the Garden State Parkway, Route 9, and Route 47. If you need an obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Cape May County near the Cape May County Courthouse in Cape May Court House, Wildwood, or Avalon, we can help.
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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
24/7 Phone Consultations — (888) 437-7747 — Meetings by appointment only. We serve Cape May Court House, Cape May, Wildwood, North Wildwood, Avalon, Stone Harbor, Sea Isle City, and Ocean City (NJ).
Frequently Asked Questions: Obtaining Money by False Pretenses in NJ
Is obtaining money by false pretenses a felony in New Jersey?
Yes, if the value is $200 or more. In New Jersey, felonies are called “crimes.” Obtaining money by false pretenses valued at $200-$500 is a fourth-degree crime; $500-$75,000 is a third-degree crime; and over $75,000 is a second-degree crime, which carries 5-10 years in state prison.
What is the main defense against a false pretenses charge?
It depends on the facts, but a common defense is lack of intent to deceive. This could involve showing a genuine belief in a statement’s truth, a misunderstanding between parties, or that the transaction was a legitimate business deal that simply failed. An experienced lawyer will analyze the evidence to challenge the state’s proof of criminal intent.
Can I go to jail for a first-time offense?
Yes, jail or prison is possible depending on the degree of the charge. For a first-time offender charged with a third or fourth-degree crime, a lawyer may argue for probation, conditional discharge, or Pretrial Intervention (PTI) to avoid incarceration. However, second-degree crimes carry mandatory prison time under New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA).
What is the difference between theft by deception and other theft crimes?
Theft by deception (false pretenses) specifically requires that property was obtained through a purposeful deception. Other theft crimes, like shoplifting or burglary, involve different methods (taking, entering). The prosecution must prove you created a false impression that caused the victim to hand over money or property.
Will I have to pay restitution if convicted?
Yes. Restitution—repaying the full amount to the victim—is mandatory in New Jersey for any theft conviction. The court will order it as part of your sentence, also to any fines, fees, or jail time. An attorney can work to accurately determine the restitution amount.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer after being charged?
Immediately. Early intervention is critical. Contacting a lawyer as soon as you are under investigation or charged allows them to protect your rights during questioning, secure evidence, and begin building a defense strategy before the prosecution’s case is fully formed. Delaying can harm your case.
Related Pages: New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer | Atlantic County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Cape May County Business Lawyer
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Your case in Cape May 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 Cape May County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Cape May Vicinage (1st Vicinage), 9 North Main Street, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210, telephone (609) 463-6550, 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 Cape May 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: Cape May 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.