Breaking and Entering Lawyer in Union County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
A breaking and entering charge in Union County is a serious criminal offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2, carrying potential prison time and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing these allegations in the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage. Our breaking and entering lawyer Union County team is available 24/7. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
New Jersey Breaking and Entering Law
In New Jersey, the crime of breaking and entering is formally defined as burglary under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2. The statute makes it unlawful to enter a structure or separately secured portion thereof with the purpose to commit an offense inside, unless the premises are open to the public or the actor is licensed or privileged to enter. The term “breaking” is not required to involve force; it can be satisfied by any unlawful entry. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings extensive courtroom experience to these contested cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and forms, visit the Union Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for Breaking and Entering Charges
Breaking and entering cases in Union County are prosecuted in the Law Division of the Superior Court. The process is formal and can be lengthy. Prosecutors in Elizabeth often seek substantial penalties for burglary charges, making early and strategic defense critical.
- Your case begins with an arraignment in Superior Court, where charges are formally read and you enter a plea.
- Your attorney will file pre-trial motions, which may challenge the evidence or seek to suppress illegally obtained statements or property.
- The discovery phase involves exchanging evidence with the prosecution, including police reports, witness statements, and forensic reports.
- A case management conference sets the schedule for motions and potential trial dates.
- Plea negotiations with the prosecutor may occur at any stage, aiming for a reduction or dismissal of charges.
- If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial before a Superior Court judge.
Potential Penalties for Breaking and Entering in Union County
In Union County, breaking and entering (burglary) is typically a third-degree crime punishable by 3 to 5 years in New Jersey State Prison, but it can escalate to a second-degree crime with a 5 to 10-year sentence under specific aggravating circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Standard) | Third-Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Felony record, restitution, parole supervision. |
| Burglary (Aggravated – e.g., armed, injury caused) | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Graves Act penalties if a weapon is involved, longer parole ineligibility. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled thousands of criminal cases across New Jersey and neighboring states. Our approach is built on thorough case investigation and aggressive advocacy. “Advocacy Without Borders” is not just our tagline; it reflects our commitment to defending clients regardless of the scope of the charges.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results in Union County for breaking and entering are not listed here, our firm-wide record across NJ, VA, MD, NY, and DC includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Every case is unique, and we dedicate our resources to building the strongest possible defense for each client.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Union County Residents
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) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at the Union County courts in Elizabeth. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, and I-78. If you need a breaking and entering lawyer near me Union County, we represent individuals from Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between breaking and entering and burglary in NJ?
In New Jersey, “breaking and entering” is the common term for the crime defined by statute as burglary (N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2). The law focuses on entering a structure with the intent to commit an offense inside, whether or not physical “breaking” occurs.
Can I go to jail for a first-time breaking and entering charge?
Yes. Burglary is a third-degree crime in NJ, carrying a presumption of incarceration. A first-time offender could face 3 to 5 years in state prison, though alternative sentencing like probation may be possible depending on the facts and a strong defense.
What are common defenses to a breaking and entering charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, license or privilege to be on the property, unlawful search and seizure by police, and insufficient evidence proving you were the person who entered.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of breaking and entering?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
How can an affordable breaking and entering lawyer Union County help me?
An experienced lawyer can investigate the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, negotiate for reduced charges or alternative programs, and protect your rights at trial. Early legal intervention is often key to achieving a more favorable outcome.
Related Legal Services in Union County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles related matters. Explore our pages for a federal criminal lawyer in Union County or a DUI lawyer in Union County. For all New Jersey criminal defense information, visit our parent hub: New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer. We also serve neighboring areas like Bergen County and Middlesex County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your breaking and entering case in Union County.
Your case in Union 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 Union County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage (12th Vicinage), 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07207, telephone (908) 787-1650, 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 Union 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: Union County NJ lawyers directory · Breaking and Entering Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Breaking and Entering Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Breaking and Entering Attorney Monmouth County, NJ.