Burglary Lawyer Union County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in Union County, NJ, is a serious felony under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2, carrying severe penalties. You need a strategic defense from a burglary lawyer Union County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced representation for breaking and entering charges. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
New Jersey Burglary Law and Penalties
In New Jersey, burglary is defined by statute as unlawfully entering a structure with the purpose of committing an offense inside. The severity of the charge and its penalties depend on factors like the type of structure and whether anyone was present. A burglary charge defense lawyer Union County must analyze these details to build your defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand the high stakes of felony charges in Union County courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, see N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2 (New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and information, visit the Union Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court.
Handling a Burglary Case in Union County
Cases are heard in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court in Elizabeth. Prosecutors in Union County often seek significant penalties for burglary, especially if the alleged crime involved a dwelling. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Union County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on intent, entry, and identification.
- Initial Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea in Superior Court.
- Discovery Phase: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence from the prosecutor.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations: Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor, potentially seeking a reduction to a lesser offense.
- Trial Preparation: If no plea agreement is reached, your defense team will prepare for a jury trial in Elizabeth.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the law.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in NJ
In Union County, burglary is typically a third-degree crime punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison, but it can be elevated to a second-degree crime with a 5 to 10-year sentence if the structure was a dwelling or if you were armed.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Standard) | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Felony record, probation, restitution |
| Burglary of a Dwelling | Crime of the 2nd Degree | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Graves Act penalties if armed, permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
With a foundation built in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a deep understanding of criminal law and courtroom strategy. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we use every available resource to defend your rights and future against serious charges like burglary.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results for burglary in Union County are not enumerated here, our firm-wide approach has secured favorable outcomes in thousands of criminal cases. Every case is unique, and a burglary lawyer Union County from our team will work to achieve the best possible result for your specific situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Burglary Lawyer Near Union County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients at the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth. We represent individuals from Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Burglary Defense FAQs in Union County
What is the difference between burglary and trespassing in NJ?
Yes, there is a major difference. Burglary requires entering a structure with the intent to commit a crime inside. Trespassing is simply entering or remaining on property without permission. Intent is the key element a burglary lawyer Union County must challenge.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a lesser offense?
It depends. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Union County can often negotiate with prosecutors. Factors like your criminal history, the circumstances of the alleged entry, and the value of any property involved influence whether a charge can be reduced to criminal trespass or theft.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime, mistaken identity, lawful right to be in the structure, or challenging the legality of the evidence obtained (like an invalid search warrant). A breaking and entering defense lawyer Union County will identify the strongest defense for your case.
Is burglary a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. Burglary is always classified as an indictable crime (New Jersey’s term for a felony). It is either a crime of the second or third degree, both of which carry state prison sentences and create a permanent criminal record.
How long does a burglary case take in Union County?
A case in Superior Court can take several months to over a year, depending on its complexity, evidence, and whether it proceeds to trial. Your attorney will work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible while protecting your rights.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles related matters. Explore our pages for a federal criminal lawyer in Union County or a DUI lawyer in Union County. For a broader view of our New Jersey practice, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Bergen County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your burglary charge.