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Criminal Defense Lawyers in New Jersey

Lawyer Legion Criminal Defense Information Center of New Jersey

Search Directory for Criminal Defense Lawyers in New Jersey

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Criminal Defense Lawyers by County

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Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in New Jersey

Lawyer Legion created this list of the top picks in 2024 for the best criminal defense attorneys in New Jersey. To rank the top criminal defense attorneys and other lawyers in New Jersey, we used both objective and subjective criteria.

The top criminal defense attorneys were selected based on their career accomplishments, success in high-profile cases, professional involvement, community leadership, and board certifications.

This list represents some of the most highly accomplished criminal defense lawyers currently practicing in New Jersey. When reviewing this list, please be aware of each of the following:

  • Lawyers cannot pay to be included in this list.
  • Only lawyers who are active on Lawyer Legion were selected.
  • No online directory can accurately determine a statewide list of attorneys who are actually “the best” at practicing criminal law (but our list comes close).
John C Whipple
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Morristown, NJ
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Joseph R Donahue
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Ridgewood, NJ
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John W Tumelty
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Marmora, NJ
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Yaron Helmer
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Haddon Heights, NJ
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James M. Conley
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Haddon Heights, NJ
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Sara McArdle
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Parsippany, NJ
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Robert J. Luther
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Haddon Heights, NJ
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John T. Wynne Jr
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Haddon Heights, NJ
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Robert G Stahl
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Westfield, NJ
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James B Seplowitz
DUI / DWI and Criminal Defense Lawyer
Hackensack, NJ
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Steven B. Farman
Criminal Defense and Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Manasquan, NJ
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Genesis A Peduto
Criminal Defense Lawyer
North Bergen, NJ
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More Noteworthy New Jersey Attorneys

New Jersey Legal Resources

Helpful Videos

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Criminal Defense Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey (ACDL-NJ) - The Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey (ACDL-NJ) was established in 1985. Through support, CLE seminars, and networking opportunities, the ACDL-NJ helps criminal defense attorneys improve their practice to better serve the criminal justice system in New Jersey. Membership is available to criminal defense lawyers in New Jersey in both public practice and in the private sector. The attorneys in the organization practice in the courts at the local, state and federal level.

Specialty Certifications in Criminal Defense

Criminal Trial Law Certification by the New Jersey Supreme Court - The New Jersey Supreme Court Board on Attorney Certification offers board certification as a specialist in criminal trial law for attorneys who pass the requirements. The attorney must demonstrate a substantial level of experience in criminal trial practice, have been favorably evaluated by other attorneys and judges, fulfill ongoing legal education requirements, and pass a written examination. This certification program helps the public identify attorneys who have been designated as proficient in criminal defense law.
Criminal Trial Law Board Certification by the NBTA - The specialty area of Criminal Trial Law is offered by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) to lawyers. To earn NBTA board certification, the criminal defense attorney must show substantial involvement in at least 45 days of trial, must have served as lead counsel in jury cases through verdict; conducted direct examinations and cross-examinations, and conducted a specified number of voir dire, opening statements and closing arguments.
DUI Defense Law Board Certification by the NCDD - The National College for DUI Defense, Inc. (NCDD) is an organization that grants specialty or board certification for DUI Defense Law. The ABA has recognized the NCDD as an organization that is accredited to award certification in this specialty area of the law. The purpose of granting board certification in DUI Defense Law is to recognize DUI and DWI lawyers who focus their practice on representing men and women accused of drunk and impaired driving offenses. In order to qualify for board certification in "DUI Defense Law," the attorney must meet specific qualifications and apply for board certification with NCDD.

New Jersey Government and Court Resources

New Jersey Courts

New Jersey Courts - The New Jersey Courts have a rich historical background dating back to the state's colonial era. Their responsibilities include interpreting and applying the law, adjudicating civil and criminal cases, safeguarding individual rights, ensuring due process, and overseeing family law matters such as divorce and child custody. New Jersey's judiciary also addresses legal challenges specific to the state, including matters related to its diverse population and urban centers.

New Jersey Legislature

New Jersey Legislature - The New Jersey Legislature operates under a bicameral system, comprising the New Jersey Senate and the General Assembly. The Senate has 40 members serving four-year terms, while the General Assembly consists of 80 members serving two-year terms. As the state's legislative body, the Legislature is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing laws that govern New Jersey. Its duties include formulating the state budget, levying taxes, and addressing various policy issues such as education, healthcare, and transportation.

New Jersey Office of Attorney General

New Jersey Office of Attorney General - The New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, headed by the Attorney General appointed by the Governor, serves as the chief legal officer and principal legal advisor to the state. This office is responsible for providing legal counsel to state agencies, representing New Jersey in legal matters, and overseeing law enforcement. The Attorney General plays a central role in prosecuting and defending legal actions on behalf of the state, issuing legal opinions, and addressing a wide array of legal issues, including consumer protection, civil rights, and public safety.

New Jersey Office of Public Defender

New Jersey Office of Public Defender - Established on July 1, 1967, the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender (NJOPD) originated as the first U.S. centralized public defense system. It provides legal counsel to indigent defendants, ensuring constitutional rights. Operating through regional offices, it handles trials, appeals, and ancillary proceedings. Part of the Public Advocate until 1974, NJOPD's role expanded to include child representation in abuse and neglect cases, investigations, and parental rights termination cases.

Supreme Court of New Jersey

Supreme Court of New Jersey - The Supreme Court of New Jersey serves as the highest judicial authority in the state, entrusted with interpreting and applying the law. Its primary responsibility involves hearing appeals from lower courts to ensure the accurate interpretation and application of state laws and the constitution. The court handles a wide range of cases, including civil, criminal, and constitutional matters, establishing legal precedents that guide lower courts and legal practitioners statewide. Additionally, the Supreme Court of New Jersey oversees the regulation of attorneys, managing attorney admissions, setting ethical standards, and ensuring the professionalism and ethical conduct of lawyers across the state.

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