Essex County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Whenever an individual is facing criminal charges, it is essential that they seek legal representation from a highly experienced Essex County criminal defense lawyer. The days immediately following an arrest are crucial for collecting witness testimony and gathering evidence. Whether that evidence can work against you or help set you free, you will need the help of an attorney by your side who can protect your legal rights.

You have to be extremely careful about what you say and do when you are under investigation, because for the most part, law enforcement will not be on your side. They may have already made up their minds about you, and when that is the case, your greatest ally will be your defense attorney. At my firm, The Law Offices of Christopher G. Porreca, P.C., I have helped countless clients retain their freedom when they could have been lost to the New Jersey criminal justice system.

I urge you to contact my office so our Essex County criminal defense lawyers can begin taking action toward finding an effective solution for your case. You can also call us at (973) 828-0009.

Essex County Criminal Defense Lawyer Defending Your Rights

Just because someone is arrested does not mean that they will end up being convicted. In every case I take on, I make it my personal mission to pick apart the prosecution's case against my client. Law enforcement is prone to error just like anybody else, and it is my job to search for any errors or violations of your legal rights. If there was a mistake or an error made, I will make every effort to find it.

As an Essex County criminal defense lawyer, I also pay close attention to how evidence was obtained, whether your constitutional rights were respected, and how your case is being handled in the local courts. From arraignment in the Essex County Superior Court in Newark to hearings in the various municipal courts throughout the county, each stage presents opportunities to challenge the State's case. By acting quickly, I can begin contacting witnesses, reviewing police reports, and evaluating whether motions to suppress evidence or dismiss certain counts may be appropriate in your situation.

I have a very good sense of what types of challenges you are presently up against, and I will fight for your legal rights so you can look forward to a brighter future. I can handle all types of criminal charges, ranging from minor theft crimes to DWI, to drug crimes, sex crimes, and even manslaughter or murder. 

What To Do After an Arrest in Essex County

Those first few hours and days after an arrest can feel overwhelming, especially if you have never been in trouble before. You may be taken to the Essex County Correctional Facility, given a court date, and handed paperwork that is difficult to understand. During this time, what you do and what you choose not to do can have a lasting impact on your case, so it is important to move carefully and get reliable guidance as soon as you can.

One of the most important steps is to remain calm and avoid discussing the facts of your situation with anyone other than your lawyer. Friends, family members, or cellmates may mean well, but anything you say could later be repeated or misunderstood. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, and you should clearly state that you want to use those rights. Once you do, officers should stop questioning you so that I can step in and help protect you.

After you are released or have access to a phone, gathering basic information about your charges and upcoming court dates will also help me evaluate your options. I will ask you about where the arrest took place, which agency was involved, and whether you have already appeared in the Newark courthouse or any municipal court in Essex County. By getting this information to me quickly, I can start planning a defense strategy, talk with you about potential consequences, and prepare you for what to expect at your first appearance and beyond.

Essex County Resource Links

• Criminal Defense Info Center
• About Essex County
• Essex County