Gloucester County Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer — What Are Your Defenses?
Obtaining money by false pretenses is a serious theft crime in New Jersey, prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4. In Gloucester County, these cases are heard in the Superior Court, Law Division, and can result in felony-level penalties. If you are charged, you need a lawyer experienced in Gloucester County’s court procedures. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the Charge of Obtaining Money by False Pretenses in New Jersey
The crime of obtaining money by false pretenses is defined under New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4. It involves knowingly obtaining property, including money, of another through a deception or false promise made with the intent to defraud. The key element is the defendant’s intent at the time the false statement was made; the prosecution must prove you never intended to fulfill the promise or that the representation was knowingly false.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has built its practice on a deep understanding of criminal statutes and courtroom advocacy. We apply this foundational knowledge to defend against fraud charges like obtaining money by false pretenses.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4 (official New Jersey Legislature site) – The statute defining theft by deception.
- Gloucester Vicinage Court Website – Official site for court locations, rules, and procedures.
Gloucester County Court Procedures for Fraud Charges
An obtaining money by false pretenses charge in Gloucester County begins with a complaint, often following an investigation. The case proceeds in the Superior Court, Law Division, in Woodbury. The Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office handles these cases, and they often involve detailed financial evidence. The court follows strict case management tracks, meaning your defense must be prepared efficiently to meet discovery deadlines and pre-trial conferences.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery Phase: The prosecution must provide all evidence. We meticulously review this for weaknesses or violations of your rights.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Meetings with the judge and prosecutor to discuss case status, potential plea negotiations, or trial readiness.
- Motion Practice: Filing pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if the state’s case is legally insufficient.
- Trial or Resolution: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we proceed to a jury trial in the Gloucester County Courthouse to defend your case.
Potential Penalties for Obtaining Money by False Pretenses
In Gloucester County, obtaining money by false pretenses is graded based on the amount involved. It can range from a disorderly persons offense for small amounts to a second-degree crime for amounts over $75,000, carrying significant state prison time.
| Offense Degree | Value of Property | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Persons Offense | Under $200 | Up to 6 months jail | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, restitution |
| 4th Degree Crime | $200 – $500 | Up to 18 months prison | Up to $10,000 | Felony record, restitution |
| 3rd Degree Crime | $500 – $75,000 | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | Felony record, restitution |
| 2nd Degree Crime | Over $75,000 | 5-10 years prison | Up to $150,000 | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, our practice is built on a commitment to strong, client-focused defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our dedication to representing clients across multiple jurisdictions, including New Jersey. We understand that a charge for obtaining money by false pretenses can upend your life, and we work to protect your future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While we maintain a strong record of favorable outcomes across our practice, specific results for obtaining money by false pretenses in Gloucester County are not publicly listed. Our approach involves a detailed analysis of the prosecution’s evidence, particularly focusing on the intent element, to challenge the state’s case. We explore all avenues, from pre-trial motions to negotiated resolutions, to seek a favorable result for your situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Gloucester County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 455-5120
By appointment only.
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 an obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer near me Gloucester County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between theft and obtaining money by false pretenses?
Yes, there is a key difference. Obtaining money by false pretenses (theft by deception) requires proof that you used a specific lie or false promise to get the property, and that the victim relied on that lie. General theft may involve taking without consent but not necessarily through a detailed deception.
Can I go to jail for a first-time false pretenses charge in NJ?
It depends on the degree of the charge. For a disorderly persons offense (under $200), jail is possible but not mandatory. For an indictable crime (felony) of the third degree or higher, state prison is a potential sentence even for first-time offenders, making a strong defense critical.
What are common defenses to obtaining money by false pretenses?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud (you believed the promise was true), that the representation was not materially false, that the victim did not actually rely on your statement, or that there was a misunderstanding rather than a criminal act. An affordable obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Gloucester County can evaluate which defense fits your case.
Is restitution always required if I’m convicted?
Yes. New Jersey courts almost always order restitution—repayment of the money obtained—as part of the sentence for a conviction of obtaining money by false pretenses. This is also to any fines, probation, or incarceration.
Should I speak to the police if they contact me about this?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and contact a lawyer as early as possible. Statements you make can be used to establish the intent element, which is central to the prosecution’s case.
Related Legal Services in Gloucester County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles business law, contract disputes, and federal criminal defense in Gloucester County. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Camden County and Burlington County.
Your case in Gloucester County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Gloucester County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage (15th Vicinage), 70 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096, telephone (856) 853-3200, 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 federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Gloucester 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: Gloucester County NJ lawyers directory · Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Monmouth County NJ Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer.