New Jersey Criminal Lawyer for Top Legal Defense
If you have been charged with a crime in New Jersey, our lawyers are here to help. We understand what it’s like to be in your situation—to face the uncertainty of trial with your finances, your freedom, and your future on the line. But we also understand that you have options available regardless of the facts of your case. Each New Jersey criminal defense lawyer at our firm has a proven track record of successful representation, and we are prepared to use our experience to fight your case by all means available. Several of our attorneys were senior County Assistant Prosecutors before they joined our firm. They are familiar with how to effectively defend criminal charges and protect your constitutional rights.
When you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey, your choice of legal representation matters.
So, why should you choose our law firm to represent you? Simply put, we have the experience, capabilities, and resources required to handle your case effectively. Whether you have been charged with a disorderly persons offense or are facing decades in prison for a serious indictable crime, we will take an aggressive approach to your defense, focused on challenging the prosecution’s evidence and securing a favorable resolution as cost-effectively as possible.
Speak with a New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer in Confidence
Regardless of the specific charge (or charges) you are facing, you do not have time to waste. The early stages of criminal cases in New Jersey move quickly, and missing a court date can have serious legal consequences. To speak with an experienced New Jersey criminal defense lawyer in confidence, call us today at 877-435-6371 or contact us online for a free consultation.
What You Can Expect from Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A.
In New Jersey, facing any type of criminal charge is a serious matter. All crimes carry the potential for substantial fines, probation, and mandatory jail time, and having a conviction on your record can negatively impact your career and personal life long after you’ve served your sentence. While it may be possible to avoid these consequences depending on the facts of your case, doing so requires help from an experienced defense attorney.
Whether your case involves domestic violence, drug charges, or a DUI arrest, our attorneys have the experience and judgment to protect your rights and guide you through every step of the criminal process.
When you hire a criminal defense lawyer at Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A., your attorney will fight to protect you by all legal means available. Our defense team has centuries of combined experience representing clients in cases ranging from assault and battery to weapons offenses and complex white-collar crimes. We challenge improper police conduct, scrutinize physical evidence, and build defense strategies tailored specifically to the facts of your case.
As a defendant in New Jersey’s criminal justice system, you cannot afford to navigate your situation alone. The system is not designed to protect unrepresented defendants. When law enforcement and prosecutors are building a case against you, you need a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who understands how to protect your future and your freedom.
Your New Jersey defense attorney at Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A. will explain your options clearly and help you make informed decisions every step of the way. Deciding whether to testify, negotiate a plea agreement, or move forward to trial are strategic decisions that depend on an honest evaluation of the evidence. Our attorneys work closely with you to create a focused and effective defense strategy.
What Past Clients Have Said About Our Legal Representation
With decades of experience representing clients across New Jersey, we have received numerous client testimonials. Here are just a few examples of what past clients have said about our firm:
Results May Vary Depending on Your Particular Facts and Legal Circumstances
“[Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A.] first represented me in a serious criminal case in which I was wrongfully arrested. The case went all the way to trial, and thanks to their outstanding preparation, advocacy, and dedication, I received a not guilty verdict. That result alone speaks volumes about the firm’s skill and commitment to justice.” - RS
“The Law Office of Helmer, Conley & Kasselman provided my son with great legal representation. They made us feel heard, our case was important to them, and they provided us with excellent legal services. If you are looking for honest, determined, and knowledgeable criminal attorneys, I highly recommend Helmer, Conley & Kasselman.” – SC
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the legal team at Helmer Conley & Kasselman. From the beginning, they were professional, attentive, and truly dedicated to achieving the best outcome. They were clear in communication, honest about each step, and made us feel supported throughout the entire process.” – JP
What to Do (and What Not to Do) After an Arrest in New Jersey
Once you have been arrested for a crime in New Jersey, it is up to you to protect your rights. You must be careful to take immediate protective steps while avoiding common mistakes:
1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
It is extremely important that you exercise your constitutional right to remain silent. Beyond identifying yourself, you are not required to answer questions from law enforcement officers or investigators. Exercising your right to remain silent does not make you look guilty, and it cannot be used against you in court.
2. Exercise Your Right to Legal Counsel
Along with remaining silent, you should immediately request legal counsel. Successfully challenging the prosecution’s evidence requires experienced defense representation as early in the process as possible.
3. Provide Full Details to Your Attorney
When you consult with your criminal attorney, share all relevant facts. Your lawyer can only build an effective defense if they have complete information. Everything you discuss with your lawyer is protected by attorney-client privilege.
4. Track Your Scheduled Court Dates
Missing a scheduled court date in New Jersey can result in a bench warrant for your arrest and additional criminal charges. Ensure you note all court appearances and arrange to arrive on time.
5. Work Collaboratively on Your Defense Plan
Defending against criminal allegations requires careful, strategic planning. Work closely with your attorney to evaluate options, assess risk, and make informed choices about your case.
For customized legal advice regarding an arrest or investigation, contact our firm to schedule a confidential legal consultation.
Defending Clients Across Full Spectrum Criminal Practice Areas
Our attorneys provide comprehensive defense representation across virtually all areas of New Jersey criminal law, including:
- Assault & Battery / Aggravated Assault – Defense against simple assault, aggravated assault, and violent crime charges carrying potential state prison sentences.
- Domestic Violence – Defense against restraining orders, domestic assault accusations, and related stalking charges.
- Drug Crimes – Defense for possession, distribution, manufacturing, and prescription drug fraud under New Jersey CDS laws.
- Cyber and Internet Crimes – Representation for online fraud, cyberstalking, electronic harassment, and computer theft offenses.
- Sex Crimes & Megan's Law – Discrete defense against sexual assault allegations and applications for Megan’s Law registry removal.
- Shoplifting & Theft Offenses – Defense against retail theft, receiving stolen property, and grand larceny charges.
- Weapons & Gun Offenses – Defense against strict New Jersey firearm violations, Graves Act offenses, and unlawful possession.
- Disorderly Conduct & Harassment – Effective representation for Municipal Court disorderly persons offenses and petty disorderly offenses.
- Probation & Parole Violations – Dedicated advocacy at preliminary and revocation hearings to keep you out of state prison.
- Expungements – Clearing past criminal arrest records and convictions to restore your clean record.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in NJ?
During your initial consultation at Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A., we discuss legal fees clearly and transparently. Consultations are confidential, and flexible payment arrangements are available. Our fees reflect the complexity of your legal matter and the depth of experience our defense team brings, including former senior prosecutors and law enforcement investigators.
What are the potential penalties for criminal convictions in New Jersey?
Penalties depend on whether the offense is a Municipal Court disorderly persons offense or a Superior Court indictable crime (felony). Penalties can include substantial court fines, probation, mandatory community service, ignition interlock devices, or years in state prison.
Is it worth hiring a defense lawyer if I believe the prosecution has strong evidence?
Yes. An experienced attorney evaluates whether law enforcement obtained evidence legally. Procedural errors, illegal searches, or constitutional violations often lead to evidence suppression, reduced charges, or complete case dismissal.
What happens if police violated my rights during an arrest or interrogation?
If police conducted an unlawful search, failed to administer Miranda warnings prior to custodial interrogation, or lacked probable cause, your defense team can file formal motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.
Should I accept a plea bargain offered by the prosecutor?
Plea bargains can mitigate sentence exposure in certain circumstances, but accepting a deal is not always the best option. Your defense lawyer will thoroughly review the state's discovery evidence to advise whether to accept a plea, seek pretrial intervention (PTI), or proceed to trial.
Recent Criminal Case Results
Results May Vary Depending on Your Particular Facts and Legal Circumstances
Multi-Count Indictment Dismissed After Showing Lack of State Proof
Our client was charged with a third-degree charge of Causing a False Alarm in a Public Building, a second-degree charge of Possession of a Firearm by a convicted felon, a third-degree charge of Terroristic Threats, and a fourth-degree Contempt of a Final Restraining Order. These charges could have resulted in a cumulative sentence of 18 years in prison.
Our team filed a motion in which we were able to show that the State had overcharged our client and improperly accused the client of several criminal acts. We pointed out the missteps and lack of proof in their case. The end result for the client was a dismissal of all of the charges except one. That count was resolved with a nominal fine assessed to the client.
Extradition & $400,000 Theft Charges: Pretrial Release Secured Despite Prior Record
Our client was arrested and a week later extradited from South Carolina where he was arrested during a traffic stop. The extradition occurred after the police learned that he was wanted in New Jersey to face charges of theft of $400,000.00 related to a stolen check that was deposited and transferred through four locations and was finally cashed in Texas. The Deputy Attorney General prosecuting the matter told the court that the client had admitted involvement and was facing three second-degree crimes (each carrying 5-to-10-year sentences), with two of those counts requiring consecutive sentences upon conviction.
To make matters worse, the client had eight prior criminal convictions, including one for escape, and had on another occasion failed to appear for imposition of a 4-year prison sentence. (When he was eventually caught after failing to appear for sentence, the judge imposed a 10-year sentence requiring five years without parole eligibility instead of the original four years). The Deputy Attorney General told the judge that when the client was contacted in Maryland where he lives, he promised that he would turn himself in after Christmas. The client was scheduled for a detention hearing a few days later, but told the court that he wanted a postponement because his family was going to retain our firm to represent him.
The Deputy Attorney General notified our firm on Friday that the client had expressed this to the court and that he was scheduled for a detention hearing on Monday. That hearing would determine whether or not the client would be released on conditions or detained in jail until his matter was resolved. We met the client on Friday night at the jail, and a family member met us on Saturday morning and retained the firm.
We appeared on the client’s behalf on Monday and argued to the court that despite all of the above, the client was 60 years old and non-violent, that the courts were backed up, and that he would not have a trial for a year or two considering the backlog. We pointed out that the client had gainful employment as a bus driver and that the court should not detain him or require house arrest at a family member’s residence in New Jersey as recommended by pretrial services, as that would impede his ability to work in Maryland.
The judge released the client only with the condition that he report to pretrial services once a week—one week by phone and the next week in person. He could have been held in jail for years pending the resolution of his case under New Jersey's bail reform system.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation
If you or a loved one have been arrested or are currently under criminal investigation in New Jersey, do not delay. Contact Helmer, Conley & Kasselman online or call our office today at 877-435-6371 to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Problem solved.