New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorneys Who Take Your Case — and You — Seriously
A criminal charge can put your freedom, your job, your reputation and your family under threat all at once, and a conviction can follow you for years. In a moment like that, you need an attorney who will take the time to understand what happened, explain what you are facing and fight for the best possible outcome. That is the representation we provide.
At the Law Offices of Peter G. Aziz & Associates LLC, we defend clients against misdemeanor and felony charges throughout New Jersey and parts of New York. Because we keep our caseload focused, your case receives individual attention, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Criminal Charges We Defend
Our attorneys provide strategic legal representation against a wide range of state and federal accusations, including:
- DWI/DUI and refusal to submit to a breath test
- Drug crimes
- Theft offenses
- Simple and aggravated assault
- Domestic violence-related charges
- Weapons and gun charges
- White-collar crimes and insurance fraud
- Murder, manslaughter and other serious felonies
Regardless of the specific allegation against you, we will build a tailored approach designed to protect your rights.
Criminal Cases That Overlap With Family Law
Some charges — an assault allegation in a domestic violence case, for example — create parallel proceedings in both criminal and family court, sometimes alongside a restraining order. Because we handle both criminal defense and family law, we can manage both sides together and keep your strategy consistent, with one team that understands the whole picture.
Weapons and Gun Charges in New Jersey and New York
New Jersey enforces some of the strictest gun laws in the country. Under New Jersey’s Graves Act (N.J.S.A. 2C:43-6(c)), many firearm convictions carry a mandatory minimum prison term without parole eligibility, including a 42-month minimum for second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun. These penalties apply even to first-time offenders, although a Graves Act waiver may be available in limited circumstances. New York classifies many gun crimes as violent felonies with enhanced sentencing. The two states treat these charges very differently, and a permit or defense valid in one may not apply in the other. We defend clients in both states and tailor the defense to the jurisdiction.
Serious Felony and Homicide Defense
Murder and homicide charges are the gravest accusations in the justice system, and related charges — aggravated manslaughter, reckless manslaughter and vehicular homicide — carry substantial prison exposure. These cases turn on complex evidence: ballistics, DNA, digital records and medical findings. We investigate every detail, work with forensic professionals to test the prosecution’s evidence and fight to ensure the full and accurate story is told. A homicide case is never about a single moment. It is about the complete picture, and we make sure that picture is heard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in New Jersey
Situations like these can bring uncertainty and anxiety. While it is best to seek an attorney’s advice on your specific case, below are quick answers to some of the most common questions we receive from our clients.
Do I need a lawyer if the charge seems minor?
Yes. Even a seemingly minor conviction can create a permanent record that affects jobs, housing and the penalties you would face for any future offense. An attorney can often protect your record or reduce the consequences.
Should I speak to the police before calling a lawyer?
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. It is generally wise to exercise both and let a lawyer speak on your behalf. Contact our office before making any statement to the police.
Will I work directly with an attorney?
Yes. You will work directly with a lawyer who knows your case and will not be handed off to staff. We keep our caseload focused so we can give your defense the attention it deserves.
Speak With a New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorney
Time matters in a criminal case. Call us at 973-869-5765 for a free, confidential consultation or contact us online. We accept credit cards and serve clients across New Jersey and parts of New York.