Burglary Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Somerset County is a serious felony under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2, with penalties including years in state prison. A burglary lawyer Somerset County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of unlawful entry and intent. We provide a strong defense for charges heard at the Superior Court in Somerville. Call (888) 437-7747 for immediate help.
New Jersey Burglary Law and Penalties
In New Jersey, burglary is defined under 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 degree of the crime depends on factors like whether the actor was armed, inflicted bodily injury, or the structure was a dwelling.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling criminal cases like burglary.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, review N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures, visit the Somerset Vicinage website.
Defending a Burglary Charge in Somerset County
Prosecutors at the Somerset County Courthouse must prove you entered a structure without permission and did so with the intent to commit a crime inside. A common defense is challenging the evidence of intent or arguing you had a right to be present. The court process involves an initial appearance, discovery, pre-trial conferences, and potentially a trial.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a complaint.
- Your attorney will file motions to review and challenge the evidence during discovery.
- Attend mandatory case management conferences to discuss potential resolutions.
- Prepare for and attend pre-trial hearings to argue suppression motions.
- If no plea agreement is reached, proceed to a jury trial in Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in NJ
In Somerset County, burglary charges can range from a third-degree to a first-degree crime, carrying 3 to 20 years in prison.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Dwelling) | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Felony record, parole supervision |
| Burglary (Non-Dwelling) | Third-Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Felony record |
| Armed Burglary | First-Degree Crime | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Graves Act mandatory minimum |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team, led by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to building defenses for charges like burglary. We understand the tactics used by Somerset County prosecutors and work to protect your rights from arraignment through trial.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. While specific results for burglary in Somerset County are not listed, our firm-wide approach has secured dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in contested matters. For example, we have successfully defended against serious felony charges in other jurisdictions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Burglary Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing charges at Somerset County courts in Somerville. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206. If you need a burglary charge defense lawyer Somerset County trusts, contact us for a near-me consultation. We serve Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in New Jersey?
New Jersey law primarily uses the term “burglary.” A breaking and entering defense lawyer Somerset County can explain that the key element is entering a structure with the intent to commit a crime inside, not merely the unlawful entry itself.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Somerset County?
It depends. Prosecutors may offer a plea to a lesser offense like criminal trespass if the evidence of intent is weak or there are mitigating circumstances. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Somerset County can negotiate based on the specifics of your case.
What should I do if I am accused of burglary?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a burglary lawyer Somerset County. Preserve any evidence that shows your whereabouts or permission to be at the location. Your attorney will guide you through the next steps.
Is burglary always a felony in NJ?
Yes. Burglary is always indictable (felony-level) in New Jersey, classified as a crime of the first, second, or third degree. There is no misdemeanor or disorderly persons burglary charge.
How long does a burglary case take in Superior Court?
The timeline varies. A case can take over a year from complaint to resolution, depending on the issues involved, evidence, and court scheduling. Your attorney will manage the process through pre-trial conferences and motions.
For more information, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters like federal charges in Somerset County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Somerset 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 Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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 Somerset 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: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory · Bergen County NJ Burglary Lawyer · Hudson County NJ Burglary Lawyer · Burglary Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.