Weapons Trafficking Lawyer in Somerset County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
Weapons trafficking in Somerset County is a second-degree indictable crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9, punishable by 5-10 years in state prison with a presumption of imprisonment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these serious charges. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
New Jersey Weapons Trafficking Law
Weapons trafficking is a severe offense in New Jersey, distinct from simple unlawful possession. The statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9, specifically targets the sale, transport, shipment, or distribution of firearms with the knowledge that they are intended for illegal use or possession. This includes transactions involving multiple firearms or those classified as assault firearms. Charges are filed in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset Vicinage, located at 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the gravity of these cases. A conviction carries mandatory prison time and long-term consequences.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9 (official New Jersey Legislature site)
- Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage website
Local Court Process for Weapons Charges in Somerset County
Weapons trafficking cases begin with an investigation, often by county or state police, skilled to an indictment by a grand jury. The case is then heard in the Criminal Division of the Somerset County Superior Court. New Jersey’s bail reform means pretrial release is based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not cash. Given the severity, securing experienced counsel immediately is critical.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or upon learning of an investigation.
- Your attorney will review the indictment and all discovery evidence from the prosecutor.
- File pretrial motions to challenge the legality of searches, seizures, or statements.
- Negotiate with the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office for a potential plea to a lesser charge or explore diversionary programs if eligible.
- Prepare for trial in Somerset County Superior Court if no acceptable plea agreement is reached.
- Address sentencing considerations, including arguments against the presumption of imprisonment, if convicted.
Potential Penalties for Weapons Trafficking in NJ
In Somerset County, weapons trafficking is a second-degree crime carrying 5 to 10 years in New Jersey state prison, with a presumption of incarceration, and fines up to $150,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weapons Trafficking (Firearms) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (Presumption of Imprisonment) | Up to $150,000 | Loss of firearm purchaser ID and permits | Parole ineligibility, permanent felony record, immigration consequences |
| Weapons Trafficking (Assault Firearms) | 1st Degree Crime | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Loss of firearm purchaser ID and permits | Graves Act mandatory minimum, severe parole ineligibility |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal cases like weapons trafficking. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. We have a documented track record of handling thousands of cases. We build defense strategies that scrutinize the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s theory of intent, and protect your rights at every stage in Somerset County Superior Court.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our firm-wide commitment to vigorous defense is reflected in our history of favorable outcomes. SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across our practice areas. For weapons charges, a strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the investigation, the chain of custody of evidence, or the specific intent required for a trafficking conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Weapons Trafficking Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Somerset County and represents them at the Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville. We serve Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
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 having a weapon you’re not allowed to have. Weapons trafficking (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9) involves selling, transporting, or distributing firearms knowing they are intended for illegal use. Trafficking charges are far more severe, often second-degree crimes.
Is there bail for weapons trafficking charges in Somerset County?
No. New Jersey abolished cash bail. Your pretrial release will be decided by a judge based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score that considers flight risk and danger. For serious charges like trafficking, securing release can be challenging without strong legal arguments.
Can I get PTI for a weapons trafficking charge?
It is very difficult. Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is for first-time offenders, but prosecutors often oppose PTI for Graves Act offenses like weapons trafficking. An experienced weapons trafficking lawyer near me Somerset County can assess your eligibility and advocate for diversion, but success is not guaranteed.
What are the best defenses against a weapons trafficking charge?
Defenses include lack of knowledge the weapons were for illegal use, challenging the legality of the search/seizure (Fourth Amendment), entrapment, insufficient evidence of transportation or sale, or mistaken identity. Each case requires a detailed review of the discovery by a skilled attorney.
Where can I find an affordable weapons trafficking lawyer Somerset County?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for weapons charges. We offer clear fee structures and payment plans. The cost of a lawyer is an investment in your future when facing a potential decade in prison. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case and options.
For more information, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense overview. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Hunterdon County and Morris County. If you have related legal needs, consider our services for DUI defense in Somerset County or federal criminal charges.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Somerset County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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. 2C:14-2 (aggravated sexual assault) within the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Somerset 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: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory · Weapons Trafficking Defense Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Weapons Trafficking Lawyer in Middlesex County, NJ · Weapons Trafficking Defense Lawyer Essex County, NJ.