Camden County Machine Gun Offense Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A machine gun offense in Camden County, New Jersey, is a second-degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5, punishable by 5 to 10 years in state prison. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these serious federal and state charges. If you are searching for a machine gun offense lawyer near me Camden County, contact us as early as possible to protect your rights and future.
New Jersey Law on Machine Gun Offenses
New Jersey maintains some of the nation’s strictest firearm laws. The possession, manufacture, transport, or sale of a machine gun is a severe felony. The statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5, broadly prohibits these acts, with limited exceptions for law enforcement and military. The law defines a machine gun as any firearm that shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot automatically more than one shot without manual reloading by a single function of the trigger. This includes conversion devices, like “Glock switches” or auto-sears, which are treated identically to the firearm itself.
Last verified: April 2026 | Camden County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature.
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the specific laws you are accused of violating is critical. You can review the official state statute at N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and information, visit the Camden Vicinage website of the New Jersey Courts.
Local Defense Strategy for Camden County
Prosecutors in the Camden County Superior Court pursue machine gun charges aggressively, often seeking maximum penalties. A common local procedural fact is that these cases frequently originate from joint task forces involving county, state, and federal agencies, skilled to evidence and multiple jurisdictional threats. An affordable machine gun offense lawyer Camden County must be prepared to challenge the legality of the search and seizure, the operability of the device, and the intent element of possession.
- Secure immediate legal representation before making any statements.
- Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence obtained from any questionable search.
- The defense will request discovery, including all police reports, lab tests on the firearm, and task force communications.
- We will explore all defenses, including lack of knowledge, unlawful search, or mistaken identity.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or prepare for a vigorous trial defense.
Potential Penalties for a Machine Gun Conviction
In Camden County, a machine gun offense is a second-degree crime carrying a mandatory minimum sentence under the Graves Act, with severe long-term consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years (Graves Act applies) | Up to $150,000 | Parole ineligibility, permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights. |
| Manufacture/Transport | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Same as above, plus potential federal charges. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high-stakes nature of weapons charges and provide a strong, case-specific defense. Our approach is grounded in thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy.
Case Results in Weapons Charges
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled numerous serious weapons offenses. While every case is unique, our firm-wide results demonstrate our commitment to defending clients against grave charges. We work to have evidence suppressed, charges reduced, or seek acquittals at trial when the facts support it.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Machine Gun Offense Defense in Camden County, NJ
Our firm is positioned to defend clients throughout Camden County, including near Cherry Hill, Camden City, and Voorhees. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a machine gun in New Jersey?
It depends. New Jersey law defines it as any firearm that can shoot more than one shot automatically with a single trigger pull. This includes actual machine guns, firearms modified with conversion devices (like “switches”), and parts designed to convert a semi-automatic weapon.
Is there a mandatory prison sentence for a machine gun charge?
Yes. Under New Jersey’s Graves Act, possession of a machine gun carries a mandatory minimum period of parole ineligibility, typically one-third to one-half of the base sentence, which itself is 5 to 10 years for a second-degree crime.
Can I be charged federally and by the state for the same gun?
Yes. It is common for joint task forces to bring parallel prosecutions. You can face charges in both New Jersey state court and federal court for the same conduct, as they are separate sovereigns. This makes having a lawyer experienced with both systems critical.
What are common defenses to a machine gun charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search that found the weapon, arguing the defendant lacked knowledge the device was present or functional, proving the item is not legally a machine gun, or questioning the chain of custody of the evidence.
Should I talk to the police if they find a weapon?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Politely state you wish to speak with an attorney and do not answer any questions. Anything you say can be used against you, and officers may not fully explain the severe penalties you face.
If you need a skilled machine gun offense lawyer Camden County, contact our firm to discuss your case. We provide a direct assessment of the charges and your potential defense strategies.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance on your specific situation.
New Jersey law governs this practice area.
Your case in Camden 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 Camden County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage (1st Vicinage), 101 South Fifth Street, Camden, NJ 08103, telephone (856) 379-2200, 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 Camden 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: Camden County NJ lawyers directory · Machine Gun Offense Defense Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Machine Gun Offense Defense Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Machine Gun Offense Defense Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.