Being charged with a third-degree felony in New Jersey can be an emotionally overwhelming experience filled with panic, fear, and uncertainty.
The experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorneys at Keith Oliver Criminal Law understand the gravity of your situation. We are committed to offering the legal defense you need in these challenging times. Our trusted lawyers have the skills and resources to effectively defend people against third-degree felony charges. Our legal team stands ready to work diligently to uphold your rights and protect your liberties.
Contact us today for a free and completely confidential consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
Understanding the Classification of Crimes in New Jersey
In New Jersey, crimes are classified into degrees, with first-degree crimes being the most severe and fourth-degree crimes the least. As part of this hierarchy, a third-degree felony is a middle-ground offense. But make no mistake: it is a serious charge with the potential for severe penalties and lifelong consequences. So, what is a third-degree felony?
Third-degree felonies include a broad range of offenses. Some common third-degree felony examples include certain types of theft, arson, possession of controlled substances, possession of BB guns, and third-degree felony assault.
Is assault in the third degree a felony? Simple assault is a disorderly person’s offense, but aggravated assault is a felony (called an indictable offense in New Jersey), and it often carries significant potential penalties. The classification of assault into the third degree depends on factors such as intent, severity of harm, and the use of weapons.
It is essential to understand that each of these offenses, from drug possession to assault, has specific legal definitions and thresholds. For instance, theft is categorized as a third-degree felony if the amount stolen falls between $500 and $75,000.
Working with an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney like those at Keith Oliver Criminal Law can help you understand the implications of the charges you face and fight for the best possible outcome.
Legal Consequences of a Third-Degree Felony in New Jersey
In New Jersey, a third-degree felony may result in three to five years of jail time. You might also be subject to hefty fines, probation, and a criminal record that can adversely affect your life long after you have served your sentence.
Your permanent record can make it more challenging for you to:
- Find employment
- Rent a place to live
- Attend an institution of higher education
Prior convictions can influence sentencing. A clean record might lead to leniency, while past convictions could result in harsher penalties. Each case is unique, and the specifics of the alleged crime, as well as your individual circumstances, could affect the outcome.
The seriousness of a third-degree felony charge and the corresponding consequences underscore the need for robust legal representation to protect your interests. That’s where the knowledge and skill of the attorneys at Keith Oliver Criminal Law come into play. Whether through having your charges dismissed, reducing them to lesser charges, or working to mitigate your sentence if convicted, we will do everything in our power to protect your liberties.
Your Rights and Legal Options
When faced with the intimidating prospect of a third-degree felony charge, it is crucial to remember you retain several critical rights. These include your right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, and your right to a fair trial. These rights are essential safeguards.
In addition, a variety of defense strategies may apply to third-degree felonies, each customizable to match the circumstances of your case. These strategies could entail:
- Challenging the legality of the evidence-collection methods police employed
- Critically scrutinizing the reliability and integrity of witness testimonies
- Disputing the alleged facts of the case based on procedural or factual inconsistencies
The unique particulars of your charge, whether it is a third-degree felony assault or another crime, will significantly affect your defense strategy. Having an experienced attorney is vital. We have the knowledge required to develop a robust defense strategy, offering you the best chance of a successful outcome.
Understanding your rights and potential legal options is fundamental in mounting a solid defense against a third-degree felony charge. This task may seem daunting, but it is one that Keith Oliver Criminal Law is equipped to handle.
How Keith Oliver Criminal Law Can Help You
At Keith Oliver Criminal Law, our mission concentrates solely on criminal defense in New Jersey. This unwavering focus has allowed us to amass a wealth of knowledge and experience in dealing with charges like third-degree felonies.
Our team consists of attorneys with decades of collective experience dealing with the nuances of the New Jersey criminal court system. As tested trial lawyers, we have honed our skills to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments and bolster your defense.
We believe in personalized representation and take the time to understand your unique situation and needs thoroughly. By developing this deep understanding, we can tailor our defense strategies to your specific case, greatly enhancing the chances of a favorable outcome.
We are thoroughly familiar with the local court systems in Monmouth, Somerset, and Mercer counties. Our in-depth knowledge allows us to anticipate case developments, enabling us to plan and respond effectively.
We strategize thoroughly and consider all available options, from plea negotiations to trial preparations. Our ultimate goal is always to secure the most favorable outcome for you. Our impressive track record of cases dismissed, charges reduced, and sentences with minimum to no jail time are all testament to our abilities.
Contact Keith Oliver Criminal Law Today
Being charged with a third-degree felony in New Jersey is a serious matter, but remember, a charge is not a conviction. By securing experienced and committed legal counsel, you can effectively challenge the charges against you. At Keith Oliver Criminal Law, we stand ready to fight relentlessly for your rights and freedoms.
Don’t let fear control your destiny. Reach out to us for a free and confidential case review. Let us hear your side of the story, and together, let’s take control of your defense. Because in the face of a third-degree felony charge, you’re not alone. We’re here, and we’re ready to help.
This post was originally published on October 2019 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness on August 2023.
