Felon in Possession Lawyer Gloucester County — Defending Prohibited Persons
A felon in possession charge in Gloucester County is a second-degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7, punishable by 5-10 years in prison with a presumption of imprisonment. As a prohibited person, you face severe penalties in the Gloucester Vicinage Superior Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals accused of being a felon with a firearm.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Law on Felons Possessing Weapons
In New Jersey, it is illegal for certain persons, known as “prohibited persons,” to possess any firearm. This offense is formally defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7, “Certain persons not to have weapons.” The law targets individuals with prior convictions for serious crimes, including any crime of the first, second, third, or fourth degree, or any disorderly persons offense involving domestic violence. A conviction for being a felon in possession is a second-degree crime, which carries the most severe penalties short of a first-degree offense. The statute’s purpose is to prevent individuals deemed dangerous due to their criminal history from accessing weapons.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: After arrest, you will have a detention hearing where the court uses a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) to decide release conditions, as New Jersey has no cash bail.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The case proceeds to the Gloucester County Grand Jury. An indictment is required for this indictable (felony-equivalent) offense.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney can file motions to challenge the legality of the search, seizure, or arrest that led to the discovery of the firearm.
- Negotiation or Trial: Defense strategy may involve negotiating for a reduced charge or entering Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), or proceeding to trial to challenge the state’s evidence.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows state guidelines, where a second-degree crime carries a presumption of incarceration.
Penalties for a Felon in Possession Charge in Gloucester County
In Gloucester County, a conviction for being a felon in possession is a second-degree crime carrying 5 to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison, with a presumption that imprisonment will be imposed.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years (Presumption of Imprisonment) | Up to $150,000 | Loss of firearm privileges permanently; potential loss of professional licenses | Federal prosecution possible; permanent criminal record; difficulty finding employment/housing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Gloucester County Firearms 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 complex criminal defense. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a felon in possession charge threatens your freedom and future. Our approach is grounded in a deep knowledge of New Jersey’s criminal code and the procedural nuances of the Gloucester Vicinage Superior Court. We build defenses that challenge the prosecution’s evidence on possession, knowledge, and the legality of police conduct.
Case Results for Firearms and Criminal Charges
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in serious criminal cases. In Gloucester County, we have 9 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. While specific results are unique to each case, our strategic approach focuses on thorough investigation, aggressive motion practice, and leveraging procedural safeguards. For a prohibited person gun charge lawyer in Gloucester County, this experience is critical in handling the high-stakes environment of a second-degree crime prosecution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Gloucester County Felon in Possession Defense Lawyer Near You
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Gloucester County courts. We represent individuals from Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, Monroe Township, Mantua, West Deptford, Glassboro, Woolwich, Harrison Township, and Pitman. If you need a felon with firearm defense lawyer Gloucester County, we are accessible. 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.
FAQs: Felon in Possession Charges in New Jersey
What does “certain persons not to possess weapons” mean in NJ?
It means you are legally prohibited from owning or possessing any firearm if you have a prior conviction for an indictable crime, a domestic violence offense, or are subject to a restraining order. This statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7, forms the basis for a felon in possession charge.
Is a felon in possession charge a federal or state crime?
It can be both. New Jersey aggressively prosecutes these cases under state law. However, the federal government also has laws (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) prohibiting firearm possession by convicted felons. You could face charges in both the Gloucester Vicinage Superior Court and the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, depending on the circumstances.
What are the main defenses to a felon in possession charge?
Common defenses include challenging whether you actually possessed the firearm, arguing you lacked knowledge of its presence, contesting the legality of the search that found it, or questioning the validity of the prior conviction that makes you a prohibited person. A skilled felon in possession lawyer Gloucester County will investigate all angles.
Can I get PTI for a second-degree felon in possession charge?
It depends. Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is generally available for first-time offenders charged with indictable crimes. However, prosecutors may oppose PTI for serious second-degree weapons offenses. A strong advocacy by your attorney highlighting your rehabilitation and low risk is essential for PTI consideration.
What happens if I’m found with a gun but it wasn’t mine?
Mere presence near a firearm is not enough for a conviction. The prosecution must prove you had actual or constructive possession—meaning knowledge of the gun and the ability to control it. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Gloucester County will fight the state’s attempt to prove these elements beyond a reasonable doubt.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing a felon in possession charge, you may also want to learn about New Jersey criminal defense. For charges in nearby areas, consider a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Camden County. For other serious charges in Gloucester County, see our page on Federal Criminal Defense in Gloucester County.
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