Ocean County Burglary Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Ocean County is a serious felony under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2, with penalties ranging from 5 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of breaking and entering. If you are facing burglary charges, contact a burglary lawyer Ocean County from our firm for a 24/7 consultation at (888) 437-7747.
New Jersey Burglary Law and Penalties
In New Jersey, burglary is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2. A person commits burglary if, with purpose to commit an offense therein, they enter a structure, or a separately secured or occupied portion thereof, unless the structure was at the time open to the public or the actor is licensed or privileged to enter. The severity of the charge depends on factors like whether the actor was armed or if someone was present during the crime.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Ocean Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand the high stakes of a burglary charge and the specific procedures of Ocean County courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court-specific information, visit the Ocean Vicinage website.
handling a Burglary Case in Ocean County
Burglary cases in Ocean County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division. Prosecutors in Toms River take these charges very seriously, often seeking maximum penalties. A key local procedural fact is that the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office may pursue enhanced charges if the burglary involved a dwelling or occurred at night. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Ocean County from our firm can challenge the evidence of intent, which is a required element for a conviction.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact our firm for a 24/7 consultation.
- Case Review & Investigation: We will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or to dismiss charges if the state lacks probable cause.
- Negotiation or Trial: We will pursue negotiations for a charge reduction or, if necessary, prepare a vigorous defense for trial before an Ocean County jury.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Ocean County
In Ocean County, burglary is typically a crime of the third degree, but it can be elevated to the second degree if the actor is armed, threatens someone, or the structure is a dwelling.
| Offense Degree | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Standard) | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3-5 years in state prison | Up to $15,000 | Felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Burglary (Armed, Dwelling, etc.) | Crime of the 2nd Degree | 5-10 years in state prison | Up to $150,000 | Graves Act penalties if a firearm is involved, mandatory minimums |
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 bring a prosecutor’s perspective to building your defense. We have handled thousands of criminal cases across New Jersey. Our approach is to scrutinize every detail of the state’s case, from the legality of the investigation to the credibility of the evidence.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While we maintain a strong record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases, every case is unique. Our firm-wide experience includes securing dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in serious felony cases. We apply this extensive knowledge to every burglary charge defense lawyer Ocean County case we handle.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Lawyer Near Ocean County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Ocean County. We are accessible to those in Toms River, Lakewood, Brick Township, and surrounding communities. If you need a burglary lawyer near the Ocean County Courthouse in Toms River, 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) 651-6696
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and robbery in New Jersey?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary (N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2) involves unlawfully entering a structure with intent to commit a crime inside. Robbery (N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1) involves theft from a person through force or threat of force. You can be charged with burglary even if you stole nothing.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a lesser offense?
It depends. A burglary charge defense lawyer Ocean County can negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, such as to criminal trespass, based on evidence weaknesses, your history, and the circumstances. Success depends on the specifics of your case and the policies of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime, mistaken identity, license or privilege to be in the structure, and unlawful search and seizure. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Ocean County will investigate to determine the strongest defense strategy for you.
Is burglary a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. Burglary is always an indictable crime (New Jersey’s term for a felony). It is never a disorderly persons offense. A conviction will result in a permanent felony record.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected of burglary?
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 burglary lawyer Ocean County. Anything you say can be used against you.
For more information, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Atlantic County and with related charges such as Theft in Ocean County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Ocean County, New Jersey
Indictable charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division; disorderly-persons offenses are heard in the municipal court where the charge was filed. In Ocean County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Ocean Vicinage (9th Vicinage), 120 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08753, telephone (732) 504-0700, 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 New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Ocean 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: Ocean County NJ lawyers directory · Bergen County NJ Burglary Lawyer · Hudson County NJ Burglary Lawyer · Burglary Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.