Felon in Possession Lawyer Hudson County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A felon in possession charge in Hudson County is a second-degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7, punishable by 5-10 years in state prison with a presumption of imprisonment. As a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Hudson County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals accused of violating New Jersey’s strict firearm possession laws. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results.
New Jersey Felon in Possession Law
In New Jersey, it is illegal for any person who has been convicted of a crime, as defined in N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7, to possess any firearm. This statute applies broadly, encompassing rifles, shotguns, and handguns. The charge is a second-degree crime, which carries severe penalties and a legal presumption that incarceration is required. The prosecution must prove you knowingly possessed a firearm and that you have a prior conviction that qualifies under the statute.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Hudson Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures and forms can be found at the Superior Court of NJ, Hudson Vicinage website.
Defending a Felon in Possession Charge in Hudson County
Defending against a felon in possession charge requires challenging the state’s evidence on multiple fronts. In Hudson County Superior Court, prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases. A key local procedural fact is that New Jersey’s bail reform means pretrial release is based on a risk assessment, not cash bail, but the severity of this charge often leads to pretrial detention arguments by the state.
- Case Assessment: Immediately review the arrest details, search legality, and the specific prior conviction to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
- Motion to Suppress: If the firearm was discovered through a search, file a motion to suppress evidence, arguing violations of your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Challenge Knowledge & Possession: Argue you did not knowingly possess the firearm or that it was not in your actual or constructive control.
- Negotiate or Trial: Based on the evidence, negotiate for a charge reduction (e.g., to a third-degree offense) or prepare for trial to contest the allegations.
Penalties for a Felon in Possession Conviction
In Hudson County, a felon in possession conviction as a second-degree crime carries a sentencing range of 5 to 10 years in New Jersey state prison, with a presumption of incarceration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years (Presumption of Imprisonment) | Up to $150,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, prohibition on future firearm ownership, difficulty securing employment/housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous defense. We understand the high stakes of a second-degree gun charge and the local Hudson County court system.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local results for this charge are not disclosed, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We apply this extensive litigation experience to build a powerful defense for every felon in possession case in Hudson County.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Hudson County Felon in Possession Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Hudson County, including Jersey City, Hoboken, North Bergen, Union City, West New York, Secaucus, Bayonne, Kearny, Harrison, Weehawken, and Guttenberg. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Route 1/9, and public transit including the PATH train.
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.
Felon in Possession Lawyer Hudson County FAQs
What does “felon in possession” mean in New Jersey?
It is a second-degree crime for any person previously convicted of a crime, as defined by N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7, to possess any firearm. The law applies regardless of the type of firearm or how long ago the prior conviction occurred.
Can I get bail on a felon in possession charge in Hudson County?
New Jersey abolished cash bail. Pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment risk score. For a second-degree crime like felon in possession, the state often argues for detention, making a strong defense at the detention hearing critical.
What are the possible defenses to this charge?
Defenses can include challenging the legality of the search that found the gun, arguing you did not knowingly possess it, or contesting whether your prior conviction legally qualifies under the statute. A skilled felon with firearm defense lawyer Hudson County can identify the best strategy for your case.
Is PTI available for a felon in possession charge?
Generally, no. Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is typically not available for second-degree crimes involving firearms. However, in rare circumstances or if the charge can be negotiated to a downgraded level, alternatives may be possible. An experienced prohibited person gun charge lawyer Hudson County can evaluate your options.
What is the difference between state and federal felon in possession charges?
State charges are prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7 in Hudson County Superior Court. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) are prosecuted in U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. Federal penalties often carry longer mandatory minimum sentences and are tried in Newark or Camden.
Related Legal Services: If you are facing other charges, explore our pages for a Hudson County Criminal Defense Lawyer or a Federal Criminal Lawyer in Hudson County. For an overview of our statewide services, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your felon in possession charge in Hudson County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Hudson County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on felon in possession cases in New Jersey explains each stage.
Your case in Hudson 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 Hudson County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Hudson Vicinage (3rd Vicinage), 583 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306, telephone (201) 748-4400, 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 Hudson 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: Hudson County NJ lawyers directory · Felon in Possession Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Felon in Possession Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.