Criminal Defense Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Rights?
A criminal charge in Bergen County, NJ, is a serious matter. Disorderly persons offenses carry up to 6 months in jail under N.J.S.A. Title 2C. As your criminal defense lawyer Bergen County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. We have firm-wide experience with 4,739+ documented case results. Call for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Criminal Law in Bergen County
New Jersey classifies crimes differently than most states. Indictable crimes (felony equivalents) are heard in the Bergen County Superior Court Criminal Division at 10 Main Street in Hackensack. Disorderly persons offenses (misdemeanor equivalents) and traffic matters are handled in the local Municipal Court. The state abolished cash bail in 2017 under the Criminal Justice Reform Act. Pretrial release is now determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) risk score, not your ability to pay money. This system aims to be fairer but requires a strategic defense from the start.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s criminal statutes, refer to the New Jersey Legislature website (N.J.S.A. Title 2C). For court procedures and forms in Bergen County, visit the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage official website.
Bergen County Court Process for Criminal Charges
Your case path depends on the charge severity. For disorderly persons offenses, you will receive a summons to appear in Municipal Court. For indictable crimes, the process begins in Superior Court. A key local procedural fact is the availability of Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for most first-time indictable offenders. Successfully completing 1-3 years of supervision results in a complete dismissal of charges. This is a critical opportunity that requires a skilled criminal charge defense lawyer Bergen County to handle the application and ensure compliance.
- Initial Appearance/Arraignment: You are formally advised of the charges and your rights.
- Pretrial Phase: Your attorney reviews discovery, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- PTI or Plea Negotiation: If eligible, apply for PTI diversion or negotiate a plea agreement.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing or Dismissal: Following a conviction or successful PTI completion.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges in Bergen County
In Bergen County, criminal penalties range from fines to decades in prison, depending on the offense degree and your prior record.
| Offense Level (NJ) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Persons | Misdemeanor Equivalent | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, possible probation |
| 4th Degree Crime | Indictable (Felony) | Up to 18 months | Varies | Felony record, parole supervision |
| 3rd Degree Crime | Indictable (Felony) | 3-5 years | Varies | Felony record, significant parole |
| 2nd Degree Crime | Indictable (Felony) | 5-10 years | Varies | Presumption of imprisonment |
| 1st Degree Crime | Indictable (Felony) | 10-20 years | Varies | Lengthy state prison term |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Bergen County Criminal Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a high rate of favorable outcomes. We understand that every detail matters in building your defense strategy. Knowing how to beat criminal charges lawyer Bergen County strategies involve early intervention, thorough investigation, and leveraging procedural opportunities like PTI.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local case counts are not published, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results across New Jersey and our multi-state practice. We actively represent clients in Bergen County courts. Our approach focuses on seeking dismissals, charge reductions, and alternative resolutions like PTI whenever possible to protect your future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Bergen County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County, including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17.
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 — meetings by appointment only.
Bergen County Criminal Defense FAQs
Does New Jersey have cash bail?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in January 2017 under the Criminal Justice Reform Act. Pretrial release in Bergen County is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) — a computerized risk score, not money. There are no bail bondsmen in NJ.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) in Bergen County, New Jersey?
PTI is a diversionary program for first-time indictable (felony) offenders in Bergen County. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision results in complete dismissal of charges. Applications are processed through Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage.
Can I get my NJ criminal record expunged?
Yes. NJ allows expungement after waiting periods: 5 years for indictable crimes, 2 years for disorderly persons. NJ’s Clean Slate law expanded eligibility. PTI completions result in automatic dismissal. Petitions are filed in Bergen County Superior Court.
What is a disorderly persons offense in Bergen County, NJ?
A disorderly persons offense is NJ’s equivalent of a misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail/$1,000 fine. Heard in Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage. Petty disorderly persons: up to 30 days/$500. Indictable crimes (felonies) are heard in Bergen County Superior Court.
Should I talk to the police without a lawyer?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with your criminal defense lawyer Bergen County. Anything you say can be used against you.
For more information, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Morris County and Somerset County. If you are facing other legal issues, we provide DUI defense and family law services in Bergen County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.