Bergen County Burglary Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Bergen County is a serious felony under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2, carrying severe penalties. If you are charged, you need a dedicated burglary lawyer Bergen County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Our firm, founded in 1997, provides a strong defense for charges in Hackensack and across Bergen County. We offer 24/7 consultations.
New Jersey Burglary Law
In New Jersey, burglary is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2. A person commits burglary if, without license or privilege, they enter a structure or separately secured portion thereof with the purpose to commit an offense therein. The law distinguishes between degrees based on factors like whether the structure was a dwelling, if the actor was armed, or if they inflicted bodily injury. Understanding the specific elements the prosecution must prove is the first step in building your defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and forms in Bergen County, visit the Bergen Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for Burglary Charges
Burglary cases in Bergen County begin with an arrest and complaint, then proceed to the Superior Court, Law Division, in Hackensack. The prosecution must present evidence to a grand jury for an indictment. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer Bergen County can challenge the evidence at multiple stages, from the probable cause for arrest to the validity of the indictment itself.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be brought before a judge for a bail hearing.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor or file motions to suppress evidence.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The state presents its case for an indictment.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: If indicted, your lawyer will engage in discovery and pre-trial motions.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case will either proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through a plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in New Jersey
In Bergen County, a burglary charge can result in 3 to 10 years in state prison for a second-degree offense, or 5 to 10 years for a first-degree offense, along with significant fines and a permanent felony record.
| Offense Degree | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Dwelling) | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Parole ineligibility, permanent criminal record |
| Burglary (Armed or Causes Injury) | First-Degree Crime | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Graves Act penalties, lengthy parole disqualifier |
| Burglary (Non-Dwelling) | Third-Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Criminal record, possible immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented history of favorable outcomes, our firm brings substantial resources to your defense. Our approach is direct and focused on the details of your case.
Case Results
While specific results for burglary in Bergen County are not listed here, our firm has a documented record of achieving dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in serious felony cases. We apply this extensive experience to every burglary charge defense lawyer Bergen County case we handle.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense in Bergen County
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing charges at the Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17. If you need a burglary lawyer near Bergen County or in communities like Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, or Paramus, we are here to 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) 651-3900
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 NJ?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary involves unlawfully entering a structure to commit a crime inside. Robbery involves taking property from a person through force or threat. You can be charged with burglary even if nothing was stolen.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Bergen County?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Bergen County can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a charge to a lesser offense like criminal trespass, which carries lower penalties. Success depends on factors like your history and the strength of the state’s case.
Is burglary of a car a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. Breaking into a locked automobile with intent to commit a crime inside is typically charged as burglary, a crimey of the third degree. Penalties include 3-5 years in prison and a fine up to $15,000.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary?
Remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Contact a burglary lawyer Bergen County from our firm as soon as possible to begin building your defense strategy.
How long does a burglary case take in Superior Court?
A burglary felony case can take 12 to 24 months or more from arrest to resolution, depending on the issues in dispute, evidence, and court scheduling. Your attorney will work to move the process forward efficiently while protecting your rights.
Related Pages: For other legal issues in Bergen County, see our pages on federal criminal defense and DUI defense. For help in nearby areas, our Atlantic County civil litigation lawyers can assist.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Bergen 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 Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, 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 Bergen 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: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Hudson County NJ Burglary Lawyer · Burglary Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.