Public Intoxication Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
A public intoxication charge in Burlington County, NJ, is a disorderly persons offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2, carrying potential jail time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of being drunk in public in Burlington County. Our public intoxication lawyer Burlington County works to protect your record and future. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Understanding Public Intoxication Law in New Jersey
Public intoxication, often referred to as being “drunk in public,” is codified in New Jersey under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2. The statute defines the offense as appearing in a public place while manifestly under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or other drugs to the degree that you may endanger yourself, another person, or property, or you annoy persons in your vicinity. It is classified as a disorderly persons offense, which is New Jersey’s equivalent of a misdemeanor.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2 (official New Jersey Legislature). Court procedures and forms can be found at the Burlington Vicinage website.
The Burlington County Court Process for Public Intoxication
Public intoxication cases in Burlington County are typically heard in the Municipal Court of the township where the alleged offense occurred, such as Mount Holly, Evesham, or Moorestown. Prosecutors in these courts often seek fines and may push for probationary terms. A skilled drunk in public defense lawyer Burlington County can challenge the state’s evidence that you were “manifestly under the influence” and posed a danger or annoyance.
- Receive Your Summons: You will get a court date on a summons, not through an arrest.
- First Appearance (Arraignment): You will enter a plea of not guilty. Do not plead guilty without consulting an attorney.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your lawyer will review police reports and speak with the municipal prosecutor to seek a reduction or dismissal.
- Motion to Suppress: If evidence was obtained improperly, your attorney can file a motion to have it thrown out.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a municipal judge.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your lawyer will argue for minimal penalties. You have the right to appeal to the Burlington County Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for Public Intoxication in NJ
In Burlington County, a public intoxication conviction as a disorderly persons offense can result in up to 6 months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Intoxication (N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Permanent criminal record | Probation, community service, driver’s license suspension (possible if related to DUI) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that a public intoxication charge, while seemingly minor, can affect employment, housing, and your reputation. Our approach is to provide a vigorous, case-specific defense aimed at protecting your future.
Our Approach to Public Intoxication Cases
We challenge public intoxication charges by examining whether the officer had probable cause, if your behavior truly met the legal standard of being a danger or nuisance, and whether any procedural errors were made. Our goal is to get your public intoxication charge dismissed. For example, we may argue that you were on private property, not a “public place,” or that you were not manifestly under the influence. We have successfully defended clients in Burlington County municipalities, working to avoid a conviction on their record.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Public Intoxication Defense Lawyer
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Burlington County. We are accessible via NJ Turnpike, I-295, and Route 130. If you need a public intoxication lawyer near Mount Holly or the Burlington County Courthouse, we can help.
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) 455-5129
By appointment only.
We serve Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, Marlton, and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is public intoxication a criminal offense in New Jersey?
Yes. Public intoxication is a disorderly persons offense in NJ, which is a criminal misdemeanor. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record.
Can a public intoxication charge be dismissed in Burlington County?
It depends. A skilled public intoxication lawyer Burlington County can often negotiate a dismissal, especially for first-time offenders, by challenging the evidence or arranging for alternative dispositions like community service or an alcohol education program.
Do I need a lawyer for a public intoxication summons?
Yes. While it may seem minor, a conviction has lasting consequences. An attorney can protect your rights, challenge the charge, and work to avoid a criminal record.
What is the difference between public intoxication and DUI?
Public intoxication involves being manifestly under the influence in a public place. DUI (N.J.S.A. 39:4-50) specifically involves operating a motor vehicle. The penalties and court procedures are different, though you can be charged with both.
What should I do if I am charged with public intoxication?
Do not discuss the incident with anyone but your attorney. Note the details of your arrest. Contact a drunk in public defense lawyer Burlington County as early as possible to review your summons and begin building your defense before your court date.
Related Legal Services in Burlington County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Burlington County, federal criminal matters, and business law. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Camden County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Injury claims are filed in the Civil Part of the Law Division. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, 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 N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2, which sets a two-year filing limit for injury claims; tolling rules and exceptions can change that period, so confirm your deadline early. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington 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: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Public Intoxication Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Public Intoxication Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Public Intoxication Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.