Breaking and Entering Charges in Camden County, NJ — What Are Your Defenses?
A breaking and entering charge in Camden County, NJ, is a serious criminal offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2, often classified as a burglary. Conviction can lead to years in prison, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing these charges, you need a dedicated breaking and entering lawyer Camden County. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Law on Breaking and Entering
In New Jersey, the crime commonly referred to as “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 a separately secured portion thereof, with the purpose to commit an offense inside. The severity of the charge depends heavily on the circumstances, such as whether the structure was a dwelling, if it was occupied, or if the defendant was armed.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose experience on both sides of the courtroom informs our defense strategies for serious property crimes like breaking and entering.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site) – The statutory text defining burglary.
- Superior Court, Camden Vicinage – The official court website for case information and procedures.
Local Court Process for Breaking and Entering in Camden County
Breaking and entering cases in Camden County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division – Criminal Part. These are indictable offenses (similar to felonies in other states) and follow a formal process. After an arrest and complaint, the case is presented to a grand jury. If indicted, it proceeds to pre-trial conferences, motion hearings, and potentially a trial. The Camden County Prosecutor’s Office handles these cases aggressively.
- Initial Appearance & Complaint: You will be formally charged via a complaint. An initial appearance sets bail conditions.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury to secure an indictment.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your attorney will engage in discovery review and pre-trial negotiations with the Assistant Prosecutor.
- Motion Practice: Filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges can be a key part of the defense.
- Trial or Disposition: The case may proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing is based on the degree of the crime and your prior record.
Potential Penalties for Breaking and Entering in New Jersey
In Camden County, a breaking and entering conviction carries severe penalties that escalate based on the specifics of the offense, from a third-degree crime up to a first-degree crime with a presumption of imprisonment.
| Offense Degree | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Third Degree) | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Probation, restitution, permanent record |
| Burglary (Second Degree) | Crime of the 2nd Degree | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Presumption of incarceration, Graves Act if armed |
| Burglary (First Degree) | Crime of the 1st Degree | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Mandatory minimum terms, severe long-term impact |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Camden County Breaking and Entering Case
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to serious criminal defense. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands the tactics used by the state. We approach each breaking and entering case with a detailed investigation, challenging the prosecution’s evidence on intent, entry, and identification. Our goal is to protect your rights and seek a favorable resolution, whether through dismissal, reduction, or a strong defense at trial.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific case results in Camden County for breaking and entering are not publicly verifiable, our firm-wide record across NJ, VA, MD, NY, and DC includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We have successfully defended clients against serious property and theft-related charges by securing dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Camden 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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at the Camden County courts. We represent individuals from Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield, Collingswood, Pennsauken, Winslow, Haddon Township, Berlin, and Lindenwold. If you need a breaking and entering lawyer near me Camden County, we are accessible via I-76, Route 70, and the NJ Turnpike. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Breaking and Entering in Camden County
Is “breaking and entering” the same as burglary in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey law uses the term “burglary” (N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2) to describe the unlawful entry into a structure with intent to commit an offense inside. This is what other states may call breaking and entering.
What are the possible defenses to a breaking and entering charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, lawful right to be present, or challenging the legality of the police investigation and evidence collection. An experienced breaking and entering lawyer Camden County can evaluate the best strategy for your case.
Can I go to jail for a first-time breaking and entering offense?
Yes. Burglary is an indictable crime in NJ. Even for a first offense, a third-degree burglary conviction carries a potential 3-5 year prison sentence. However, alternatives like probation may be possible based on negotiations and your background.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer after being charged?
Immediately. Early intervention allows your attorney to protect your rights during questioning, advise you on bail, and begin building a defense strategy before the prosecution’s case is solidified. Delaying can harm your case.
Where can I find an affordable breaking and entering lawyer Camden County?
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense representation. We offer transparent consultations to discuss your case and options. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation and our approach to providing an affordable breaking and entering lawyer Camden County defense.
Related Legal Information
- New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer – Our state-level hub for criminal defense information.
- Burglary Lawyer Camden County – A closely related page for similar charges.
- Theft Lawyer Camden County – Defense for related property crimes.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your breaking and entering case in Camden County, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Your case in Camden 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 Camden County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage (1st Vicinage), 101 South Fifth Street, Camden, NJ 08103, telephone (856) 379-2200, 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 Camden 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: Camden 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.