Weapons Trafficking Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
Weapons trafficking is a second-degree indictable crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9, prosecuted in Burlington County Superior Court with penalties of 5-10 years imprisonment. As a weapons trafficking lawyer Burlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these serious charges. Our firm, founded in 1997, has a documented history of handling complex criminal cases. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
New Jersey Weapons Trafficking Law
In New Jersey, weapons trafficking is governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9, which makes it a crime to transport, ship, or otherwise transfer firearms with the knowledge that they are intended to be used unlawfully. This is distinct from simple unlawful possession charges and is treated as a second-degree indictable offense (felony equivalent). The statute is part of New Jersey’s full scheme to control dangerous weapons and curb illegal gun markets. The law applies to a wide range of firearms and destructive devices.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the weapons trafficking statute, see N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures for Burlington County are managed by the Superior Court of New Jersey, Burlington Vicinage.
Burlington County Court Process for Weapons Charges
Weapons trafficking cases in Burlington County begin with an investigation, often by county or state police, skilled to an arrest or summons. As an indictable crime, the case is presented to a grand jury at the Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly. If indicted, the case proceeds in the Criminal Division. New Jersey’s bail reform means pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment score, not cash bail. A skilled weapons trafficking lawyer Burlington County can challenge the state’s evidence at multiple stages, from the grand jury to pretrial motions.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or upon learning of an investigation.
- Your attorney will review all discovery, including police reports and evidence logs.
- File pretrial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the indictment if procedural errors exist.
- Negotiate with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office for a potential plea to a lesser charge, if appropriate.
- Prepare for trial in Superior Court, challenging the state’s proof of knowledge and intent.
- If convicted, advocate for a sentence at the lower end of the range, presenting mitigating factors.
Potential Penalties for Weapons Trafficking in NJ
In Burlington County, weapons trafficking is a second-degree crime carrying 5 to 10 years in New Jersey state prison, with a presumption of imprisonment and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weapons Trafficking (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9) | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years state prison | Up to $150,000 | Presumption of imprisonment; Graves Act mandatory minimum parole ineligibility may apply; permanent criminal record; loss of firearm rights. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the severe implications of a weapons trafficking charge and the specific procedures of Burlington County Superior Court. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights and future.
Our Approach to Weapons Trafficking Cases
Our defense strategy begins with a meticulous review of the prosecution’s case. We examine the legality of the search and seizure, the chain of custody of the evidence, and whether the state can prove the required element of knowledge that the weapons were intended for unlawful use. In Burlington County, we actively challenge indictments and file motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly. While firm-wide we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, every case is unique.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Weapons Trafficking Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Burlington County, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and Burlington City. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike and I-295. If you need a weapons trafficking lawyer near me Burlington County, we are available 24/7 for phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Weapons Trafficking Defense FAQs
What is the difference between unlawful possession and weapons trafficking in NJ?
It depends on intent and action. Unlawful possession (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5) is simply having a weapon you’re not allowed to have. Weapons trafficking (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9) involves moving, shipping, or selling firearms with the knowledge they will be used unlawfully. Trafficking is a more serious second-degree crime with harsher penalties, prosecuted in Superior Court.
Does New Jersey have cash bail for weapons trafficking charges?
No. New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017. For a weapons trafficking charge in Burlington County, a judge will decide pretrial release based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score, which considers flight risk and danger to the community. An affordable weapons trafficking lawyer Burlington County can argue for your release with conditions.
Can a weapons trafficking charge be reduced in Burlington County?
Yes, it is possible. An experienced weapons trafficking lawyer Burlington County may negotiate with the Prosecutor’s Office for a plea to a lesser charge, such as a third-degree unlawful possession, depending on the case facts, your history, and the strength of the evidence. Reductions can significantly lower potential prison time.
What is the Graves Act and does it apply to weapons trafficking?
The Graves Act (N.J.S.A. 2C:43-6c) mandates mandatory minimum prison terms for certain firearms offenses. It often applies to weapons trafficking, requiring a judge to impose a period of parole ineligibility. A strong defense is essential to argue for exceptions or to challenge the underlying charge to avoid Graves Act sentencing.
Where are weapons trafficking cases heard in Burlington County?
All weapons trafficking cases are heard in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Burlington Vicinage, located at 49 Rancocas Road in Mount Holly. Municipal courts do not have jurisdiction over this second-degree indictable crime.