Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Lawyer in Salem County, NJ
Obtaining money by false pretenses is a serious theft crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4, prosecuted in the Salem Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court. A conviction can result in significant prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are under investigation or have been charged, securing an experienced Obtaining Money by False Pretenses lawyer Salem County is critical.
What Is Obtaining Money by False Pretenses in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the crime of obtaining money by false pretenses is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4. This law makes it illegal to purposely obtain property of another, including money, by creating or reinforcing a false impression. Unlike simple theft, this offense hinges on deception—the defendant must have knowingly used a lie, false promise, or other deception to convince the victim to hand over money or property.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Salem Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with decades of experience, understands how the state builds these cases. His insight into prosecutorial tactics is a key asset when building a defense against charges of obtaining money by false pretenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and information in Salem County, visit the Salem Vicinage website.
Facing Charges in Salem County: The Local Process
Charges for obtaining money by false pretenses in Salem County begin with an investigation, often by local police or the county prosecutor’s office. The case is then presented to the Salem Vicinage of the Superior Court, where it is handled in the Criminal Division. The local procedural field requires a defense attorney familiar with the court’s specific docket management and the tendencies of the local prosecution.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution and conduct an independent investigation.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, potentially seeking a case dismissal or reduced charges.
- Trial or Resolution: If no plea agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial in Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for Obtaining Money by False Pretenses
In Salem County, obtaining money by false pretenses is graded based on the amount involved, with penalties ranging from a disorderly persons offense to a second-degree crime carrying up to 10 years in prison.
| Offense Grade | Value of Property | Incarceration | Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Persons Offense | Under $200 | Up to 6 months jail | Up to $1,000 |
| Fourth-Degree Crime | $200 – $500 | Up to 18 months prison | Up to $10,000 |
| Third-Degree Crime | $500 – $75,000 | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 |
| Second-Degree Crime | Over $75,000 | 5-10 years prison | Up to $150,000 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Additional consequences include mandatory restitution to the victim, a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing, and potential loss of professional licenses.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. operates on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled over firm-wide 4,739 cases with a documented favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of New Jersey’s theft statutes and a commitment to aggressive, client-centered representation.
Our Approach to Obtaining Money by False Pretenses Cases
We meticulously analyze every detail of the state’s case. Defense strategies may include challenging the element of intent, demonstrating a lack of deception, proving you had a good-faith belief you were entitled to the funds, or negotiating for a diversionary program like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) where appropriate. An affordable obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer Salem County can provide a cost-effective defense without compromising on quality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Salem 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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Salem County, including Salem, Pennsville, Carneys Point, Woodstown, Pilesgrove, Alloway, Quinton, and Elsinboro. We are accessible via major routes like I-295 and Route 40. If you are searching for an obtaining money by false pretenses lawyer near me Salem County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is obtaining money by false pretenses a felony in NJ?
Yes, depending on the amount. It is graded as a second, third, or fourth-degree crime (all felonies) for amounts over $200. Amounts under $200 are a disorderly persons offense (misdemeanor).
What is the difference between theft by deception and false pretenses?
In New Jersey, “theft by deception” (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4) is the statutory name for the crime commonly called obtaining money by false pretenses. They are the same offense, involving the use of deception to unlawfully obtain property.
Can I go to jail for a first-time offense?
It is possible, especially if the amount involved grades the crime as a third or crimey of the fourth degree. However, an experienced Obtaining Money by False Pretenses lawyer Salem County can often negotiate for alternatives to incarceration, such as probation or PTI for eligible first-time offenders.
What are the best defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to deceive, a bona fide claim of right to the property, that the alleged false statement was not material to the transaction, or that the victim did not actually rely on the false statement.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me?
No. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. Anything you say can be used to build the case against you. Contact our firm first for guidance.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
Do not let a charge of obtaining money by false pretenses derail your life. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is ready to defend you. We offer 24/7 consultations. Call us now at (888) 437-7747.
Related Practice Areas: Business Lawyer Salem County | Contract Lawyer Salem County | Federal Criminal Lawyer Salem County
Other Locations: Atlantic County Civil Litigation Lawyer | Camden County Civil Litigation Lawyer
Learn More: New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.
Your case in Salem 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 Salem County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Salem Vicinage (1st Vicinage), 92 Market Street, Salem, NJ 08079, telephone (856) 878-5050, 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 Salem 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: Salem 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.