Criminal Attempt Lawyer Union County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
A criminal attempt charge in Union County is a serious indictable offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1, graded one degree lower than the target crime. If you are accused, you need a dedicated criminal attempt lawyer Union County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full criminal case representation lawyer Union County services, defending clients at the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage.
New Jersey Law on Criminal Attempt
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
In New Jersey, a person is guilty of criminal attempt under N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1 if, acting with the kind of culpability otherwise required for commission of the crime, they purposely engage in conduct that constitutes a substantial step toward the commission of the crime. A substantial step is conduct strongly corroborative of the actor’s criminal purpose. It is more than mere preparation. For example, purchasing tools specifically for a burglary or lying in wait for a victim can constitute a substantial step. The charge is graded one degree lower than the most serious crime attempted. Therefore, attempting a first-degree crime like aggravated sexual assault is a second-degree offense, carrying 5-10 years in state prison.
The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, brings a former prosecutor’s insight to building defenses against attempt charges, focusing on intent and the substantial step requirement.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1 (official New Jersey criminal attempt statute)
- Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage official website
Defending a Criminal Attempt Case in Union County
Defending against a criminal attempt charge requires challenging the prosecution’s proof on two key elements: your specific intent to commit the target crime and whether your actions constituted a “substantial step.” Prosecutors in Union County must prove both beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense is that the actions only amounted to preparation, which is not a crime, or that you lacked the requisite intent. For instance, being in possession of certain items without evidence of a plan to use them criminally may not meet the threshold.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Discuss the allegations in detail with your attorney to identify the target crime and the state’s evidence.
- Investigation & Evidence Challenge: Your legal team will investigate the circumstances, challenge the “substantial step” evidence, and seek to suppress any improperly obtained evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: File motions to dismiss if the evidence is insufficient. Negotiate with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office for a reduction or diversion program like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) if eligible.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea cannot be reached, prepare a vigorous trial defense focused on creating reasonable doubt about your intent and actions.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Attempt in NJ
In Union County, a criminal attempt charge carries penalties one degree lower than the completed crime, which can still mean significant state prison time, fines, and long-term consequences.
| Degree of Attempt | Crime Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Degree | Attempted 1st Degree Crime | 5-10 years (State Prison) | Up to $150,000 | No Early Release Act (NERA) may apply; permanent criminal record. |
| 3rd Degree | Attempted 2nd Degree Crime | 3-5 years (State Prison) | Up to $15,000 | Permanent criminal record; loss of professional licenses. |
| 4th Degree | Attempted 3rd Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Permanent criminal record; immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Union County Criminal Attempt Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach to criminal defense is grounded in a deep understanding of New Jersey law and the procedures of the Union Vicinage courts. We know that an attempt charge can be as damaging as a conviction for a completed crime, and we build defenses that aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case from the outset.
Our Commitment to Client Defense
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While we maintain a strong track record, we focus on the unique details of your case. We provide full criminal case representation lawyer Union County clients need, from the initial investigation through trial or negotiation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Attempt Lawyer Near Union County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Union County, including Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, and I-78.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Criminal Attempt Charges in Union County
Does New Jersey have cash bail?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in January 2017 under the Criminal Justice Reform Act. Pretrial release in Union County is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) — a computerized risk score, not money. There are no bail bondsmen in NJ.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) in Union County, New Jersey?
PTI is a diversionary program for first-time indictable (felony) offenders in Union County. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision results in complete dismissal of charges. Applications are processed through Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage. Eligibility depends on the nature of the offense and your background.
Can I get my NJ criminal record expunged?
Yes. NJ allows expungement after waiting periods: 5 years for indictable crimes, 2 years for disorderly persons. NJ’s Clean Slate law has expanded eligibility. PTI completions result in automatic dismissal. Petitions are filed in Union County Superior Court.
What is a disorderly persons offense in Union County, NJ?
A disorderly persons offense is NJ’s equivalent of a misdemeanor — punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. These cases are heard in Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage. Petty disorderly persons offenses carry up to 30 days and a $500 fine.
Is a criminal attempt charge a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. In New Jersey, “indictable crimes” are equivalent to felonies. A criminal attempt is graded as an indictable crime, one degree lower than the target offense. It is heard in Superior Court, not Municipal Court.
Related Legal Resources
- New Jersey Sex Crime Defense Lawyer
- Sex Crime Defense Lawyer in Bergen County, NJ
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Union County, NJ
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
If you want to see how a Union County case fits into the wider process, our page on criminal attempt lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.