Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Monmouth County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Obtaining money by false pretenses in Monmouth County is a serious theft offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4, prosecuted in the Superior Court. A conviction can result in significant prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these fraud charges. If you are under investigation or have been charged, contact our firm for a 24/7 consultation.
Understanding the Statute for Obtaining Money by False Pretenses in New Jersey
The crime of obtaining money by false pretenses is defined under New Jersey law. The statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4, makes it illegal to purposely obtain property of another by creating or reinforcing a false impression. This is distinct from simple theft, as it involves an element of deception to secure money or valuables. The prosecution must prove you knowingly deceived the victim, causing them to part with their property based on that deception. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has extensive experience dissecting the state’s burden of proof in these fraud cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Monmouth Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and information, visit the Monmouth Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court website.
The Monmouth County Court Process for Fraud Charges
Charges for obtaining money by false pretenses in Monmouth County are handled in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court in Freehold. The process is formal and can be lengthy. An initial appearance is followed by pre-indictment conferences, where your attorney may negotiate with the County Prosecutor’s Office. If an indictment is handed up by a grand jury, the case proceeds to trial preparation, involving extensive discovery and pre-trial motions. A key local procedural fact is that the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office has a dedicated Financial Crimes Unit that investigates and prosecutes these offenses, requiring a defense strategy that addresses their specific focus and resources.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Promptly contact a defense attorney to review the allegations, evidence, and potential defenses.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney may engage in discussions with prosecutors, present mitigating evidence, or argue for a downgrade or dismissal of charges before a grand jury review.
- Formal Arraignment & Plea: If indicted, you will be formally arraigned. Your attorney will advise on whether to plead not guilty and proceed to trial.
- Discovery & Motion Practice: Your defense team will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and challenge the sufficiency of the state’s case.
- Trial or Resolution: The case will either proceed to a jury trial in the Freehold courthouse or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement that minimizes penalties.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence. Post-conviction appeals may also be pursued.
Potential Penalties for Obtaining Money by False Pretenses
In Monmouth County, obtaining money by false pretenses is graded by the value of the property involved, carrying penalties ranging from a disorderly persons offense to crimey of the second degree charges with severe prison terms.
| Offense Degree (Based on Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than $200 | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months jail | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, restitution |
| $200 – $500 | Fourth-Degree Crime | Up to 18 months prison | Up to $10,000 | Felony record, restitution, possible probation |
| $500 – $75,000 | Third-Degree Crime | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | Significant felony record, restitution, parole supervision |
| Over $75,000 | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years prison | Up to $150,000 | Lengthy prison term, substantial fines, permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to serious criminal defense. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands the tactics used by the state. We approach each false pretenses case with a detailed investigation, challenging the element of intent and the alleged deception. Our firm is built on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing relentless representation to protect your rights and future.
Our Approach to False Pretenses Cases
We build a defense by meticulously examining the evidence for weaknesses in the prosecution’s claim of a purposeful deception. Was there a genuine misunderstanding or a breach of contract rather than criminal fraud? Did the alleged victim rely on the supposed false statement? We investigate these angles thoroughly. Our team has handled numerous fraud-related cases, working to secure dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Monmouth County Residents
If you need an obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer near me Monmouth County, our New Jersey location is positioned to serve you. Our office represents clients throughout the county, including Freehold, Tinton Falls, Red Bank, Long Branch, Asbury Park, Middletown, Holmdel, Marlboro, Manalapan, Howell, Wall Township, Neptune, and Colts Neck. We are familiar with the local judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures at the Monmouth County Courthouse in Freehold.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
24/7 Phone Consultations
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3906
Meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between theft and obtaining money by false pretenses?
Yes, there is a key difference. Theft generally involves taking property without consent. Obtaining money by false pretenses specifically requires that you used deception—a lie or false representation—to convince the owner to willingly give you the money or property.
Can I go to jail for a first-time false pretenses charge in NJ?
It depends on the degree of the charge. A disorderly persons offense (under $200) may result in jail time up to 6 months. For felony-level charges (over $200), state prison is a possibility, even for first-time offenders, especially if the amount is large. An experienced affordable obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Monmouth County can fight to avoid incarceration.
What are common defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to deceive (you believed your statement was true), that the victim did not actually rely on your statement, that it was a civil contractual dispute, or that your statement was merely “puffery” or opinion. Challenging the value of the property involved can also reduce the degree of the offense.
Should I speak to the police if I’m under investigation?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used to establish the element of intent. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. Contact a defense lawyer before any interaction with investigators.
How can an attorney help if the evidence seems strong?
Even with strong evidence, an attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charge (e.g., from a 2nd to a 3rd-degree crime), argue for a favorable plea agreement that avoids prison, or advocate for alternative sentencing like probation. They ensure your rights are protected throughout the process and work to mitigate the consequences.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other serious charges, our firm provides full defense. You may also want to learn about federal criminal defense in Monmouth County, or explore our main resource for New Jersey criminal defense lawyers. For charges in neighboring areas, see our page for criminal defense in Ocean County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your specific case, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Your case in Monmouth 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 Monmouth County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Monmouth Vicinage (9th Vicinage), 71 Monument Park, Freehold, NJ 07728, telephone (732) 677-4200, 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 Monmouth 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: Monmouth County NJ lawyers directory · Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer Hudson County, NJ.