Breaking and Entering Defense Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ
A breaking and entering charge in Burlington County is a serious criminal offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2, potentially classified as a second, third, or fourth-degree crime with severe penalties. If you are facing these charges, you need a dedicated breaking and entering lawyer Burlington County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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. A person commits burglary if, without license or privilege, they enter a structure or a separately secured portion thereof with the purpose to commit an offense therein. The statute further defines “structure” broadly to include any building, room, ship, vehicle, or airplane adapted for overnight accommodation or the carrying on of business.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The severity of the charge depends on factors such as whether the structure was a dwelling, whether the defendant was armed, or whether anyone was present. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris understands how the state builds these cases and can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence from the start.
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 information on court procedures in Burlington County, visit the Burlington Vicinage website.
Burlington County Court Process for Breaking and Entering
Breaking and entering cases in Burlington County are heard in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court in Mount Holly. Prosecutors in this vicinage often pursue charges aggressively, especially if the alleged offense involved a residence. An affordable breaking and entering lawyer Burlington County from our firm can handle this process. A key local procedural fact is that all indictable offenses, like burglary, start in Superior Court, not municipal court.
- Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing: After arrest, you will have a first appearance where the court informs you of the charges and determines if you will be released or detained pending trial.
- Indictment: The case is presented to a grand jury. If indicted, the case proceeds in Superior Court.
- Pretrial Conferences: Your attorney will engage in discovery review and negotiations with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, seeking possible plea reductions or dismissal.
- Motion Practice: Filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges can be a key part of the defense strategy.
- Trial or Disposition: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial in Mount Holly.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing is based on the degree of the crime and your prior record.
Potential Penalties for Breaking and Entering in NJ
In Burlington County, breaking and entering (burglary) penalties range from 18 months to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000, depending on the degree of the crime.
| Offense Degree | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Second-Degree Crime | 5 to 10 years | Up to $150,000 | Presumption of imprisonment; felony record. |
| Third-Degree Crime | 3 to 5 years | Up to $15,000 | Possible presumption of non-incarceration for first offenders. |
| Fourth-Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Discretionary sentencing; potential for probation. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With a combined attorney experience of over 120 years and a track record of more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, our approach is built on deep legal knowledge and practical courtroom strategy. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients without limitation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific Burlington County results are not listed, our firm-wide record demonstrates our capability. We have achieved dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea reductions in serious criminal matters across our service areas. For example, we have secured dismissals in sex abuse cases and favorable probationary sentences in other complex charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Breaking and Entering Lawyer Near Me Burlington County
If you need a breaking and entering lawyer near me Burlington County, our New Jersey location serves clients throughout the area. Our office is strategically located to represent clients at the Burlington County Courthouse in Mount Holly.
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) 758-0001
By appointment only.
We serve communities across Burlington County including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, “breaking and entering” is encompassed within the burglary statute (N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2). The law focuses on unauthorized entry into a structure with intent to commit an offense inside, regardless of whether physical “breaking” occurs.
Can I go to jail for a first-time breaking and entering offense?
It depends. For a first-time offense charged as a third or fourth-degree crime, there may be alternatives to prison, such as probation or Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI). However, second-degree burglary carries a presumption of imprisonment, making the guidance of a breaking and entering lawyer Burlington County essential to fight the charge or seek a reduction.
What are common defenses to a breaking and entering charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, lawful right to be present, or challenging the legality of the evidence obtained (e.g., via an unlawful search). An experienced attorney will investigate all angles.
How long does a breaking and entering case take in Burlington County?
A case can take several months to over a year from arrest to resolution, depending on case complexity, evidence, and whether it goes to trial. The Criminal Division in Mount Holly follows specific case management timelines.
Why should I hire an affordable breaking and entering lawyer Burlington County from your firm?
Our firm provides experienced defense at a competitive value. With a former prosecutor’s insight and over 120 years of combined experience, we work to achieve the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or trial, without compromising on the quality of your defense.
Related Pages: For other legal services in the area, see our pages for Business Lawyer Burlington County and Federal Criminal Lawyer Burlington County. For help in nearby counties, consider our Civil Litigation Lawyer Camden County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your breaking and entering charge in Burlington County.