Bergen County Robbery Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A robbery charge in Bergen County is a second-degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1, carrying 5-10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for robbery charges in Hackensack and across Bergen County. Our robbery lawyer Bergen County team builds case-specific strategies to challenge evidence and protect your rights. Contact us for a 24/7 consultation.
New Jersey Robbery Law and Penalties
In New Jersey, robbery is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1. The statute states that a person is guilty of robbery if, in the course of committing a theft, they inflict bodily injury, use force upon another, or threaten another with or purposely put them in fear of immediate bodily injury. The severity escalates if the actor is armed with, uses, or threatens the immediate use of a deadly weapon, which constitutes armed robbery.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand the serious nature of robbery charges and the aggressive prosecution they often face in Bergen County courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the robbery statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and information, visit the Bergen Vicinage website.
Handling a Robbery Case in Bergen County
Robbery cases in Bergen County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division, Criminal Part in Hackensack. Prosecutors in this vicinage treat these charges with high priority due to their violent nature. An experienced robbery charge defense lawyer Bergen County will immediately work to secure evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports, to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
- Initial Arrest & Complaint: The process begins with an arrest and the filing of a criminal complaint. You will have an initial appearance where bail is set.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor’s office before the case is presented to a grand jury, potentially seeking a downgrade or dismissal.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: For a robbery charge, the case will go before a grand jury. If indicted, the case proceeds in Superior Court.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your defense lawyer will obtain all evidence and may file motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence or identifications.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If a plea is not in your interest, your attorney will prepare for trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the minimum sentence. Post-conviction relief options may also be explored.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in New Jersey
In Bergen County, robbery is a crime of the second degree, punishable by 5 to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison, with the No Early Release Act (NERA) requiring 85% of the sentence to be served before parole eligibility.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (NERA applies) | Up to $150,000 | Felony record, parole supervision, restitution |
| Armed Robbery | 1st Degree Crime | 10-20 years (NERA applies) | Up to $200,000 | Graves Act mandatory minimum, extended parole |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Serious Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., under the leadership of Mr. Sris, brings a founder’s perspective as a former prosecutor to building defenses against serious felony charges. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We apply this extensive experience to every robbery case in New Jersey.
Case Results and Defense Approach
While specific results for robbery in Bergen County are not enumerated here, our firm’s approach to serious felony defense is consistent. We conduct immediate, independent investigations, retain qualified experts when necessary, and challenge the prosecution’s evidence at every stage. For an armed robbery defense lawyer Bergen County residents can rely on, our team examines weapon allegations, intent, and identification procedures with precision.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Robbery Defense Lawyer Near Bergen County
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing charges at the Bergen County Courthouse in Hackensack. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, Route 17, and the George Washington Bridge.
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.
We provide legal representation for individuals in Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between robbery and theft in New Jersey?
Yes, there is a major difference. Theft becomes robbery when force, threat of force, or bodily injury is used during the commission of the theft. Robbery is always a felony (indictable crime), while theft can be a disorderly persons offense or a felony depending on the value stolen.
Can an armed robbery charge be reduced?
It depends. An experienced armed robbery defense lawyer Bergen County can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction, perhaps to a second-degree robbery or theft, based on weaknesses in the evidence, the defendant’s background, or the circumstances of the case. Success depends on the specific facts and the prosecuting office’s policies.
What are common defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to commit theft, absence of force or threat, duress, and challenging the legality of police procedures like searches or lineups. A robbery charge defense lawyer Bergen County will investigate all angles to find the strongest defense for your situation.
Does New Jersey have a “three strikes” law for robbery?
No, New Jersey does not have a traditional “three strikes” law. However, the No Early Release Act (NERA) applies to robbery, and prior convictions can lead to an extended term sentence under the state’s persistent offender statute, significantly increasing prison time.
How long does a robbery case take in Bergen County?
A robbery case from arrest to resolution can take anywhere from several months to over a year. The timeline depends on case complexity, evidence, pre-trial motions, court scheduling, and whether the case goes to trial. Your attorney can provide a more specific estimate after reviewing the details.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also handles federal crimes and DUI offenses in Bergen County. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Atlantic County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.