Ridgewood Criminal Defense Lawyer

When a person in the state of New Jersey is facing criminal charges, it is important to know that they can turn to The Law Office of Carl Spector for efficient, cost-friendly legal representation. If you are facing the possibility of jail time or hefty fines due to a misdemeanor or felony charge, our legal team is here to help. Our experienced Ridgewood criminal defense lawyer has what it takes to fight for your rights. Contact our firm for an initial consultation today so we can discuss your circumstances.

Our Legal Services

For over three decades, the Law Office of Carl Spector has effectively represented clients who’ve been charged with a wide array of crimes, including the following:

• Assault
• Check Fraud
• Domestic Violence
• Drug Possession
• DUI
• Gun Crimes
• Juvenile Offenses
• Sex Crimes
• Shoplifting
• Violent Crimes

Our Ridgewood criminal defense lawyer also has decades of experience helping clients who are facing various traffic infractions, including:

• Speeding Tickets
• Reckless Driving
• Cell Phone Violations
• Driving Without a License

Your Rights When Charged With a Crime

Being charged with a crime does not mean you have been found guilty. The prosecution must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, and you have legal rights throughout the investigation and court process. Depending on the circumstances of your case, these rights may include:

• The right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about the alleged offense. Anything you say to law enforcement may be used against you, so it is generally wise to consult an attorney before making a statement.
• The right to an attorney. You may retain a criminal defense lawyer to advise you, communicate with investigators, review the evidence, and represent you in court.
• The right to know the charges. You are entitled to understand what offense you are accused of committing and the potential consequences of a conviction.
• The right to challenge the evidence. Your attorney will examine how law enforcement obtained the evidence against you, question whether a search or seizure was lawful, and potentially seek to suppress evidence when appropriate.
• The right to confront the case against you. You may contest the prosecution’s allegations, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence or witnesses in your defense.
• The right to a fair trial. You may require the state to prove its case rather than accepting a plea. A jury trial may be available when applicable.

These protections are recognized by the New Jersey Courts and the Fifth and Sixth Amendments to the United States Constitution.

Your Rights When Facing a Traffic Violation

A traffic ticket is an allegation, not an automatic finding of guilt. You have the right to challenge the charge, but paying the ticket ordinarily amounts to a guilty plea and waives your right to an attorney and a trial. Additionally, this will often result in points on your license, which can cause insurance premiums to skyrocket and even potentially warrant a license suspension. That said, if you’re facing a traffic violation, your rights are as follows:

• The right to plead not guilty. You may contest a traffic violation through the appropriate New Jersey municipal court instead of simply paying the listed fine.
• The right to a trial. If you plead not guilty, the court must determine whether the state has proven the violation.
• The right to legal representation. You may hire an attorney who can review your ticket, identify possible defenses, negotiate with the prosecutor when appropriate, and represent you in court.
• The right to review and challenge evidence. Depending on the charge, some of the evidence you may be able to challenge can include police reports, officer observations, recordings, witness statements, or records concerning speed-measuring equipment.
• The right to present a defense. You or your attorney may question witnesses, present relevant evidence, and explain facts that dispute the charge.
• The right to appeal. If you are found guilty in municipal court, New Jersey generally requires the notice of appeal to be filed within 20 days.

Traffic convictions can bring consequences beyond a fine, including motor vehicle points, surcharges, increased insurance costs, or license suspension. The New Jersey Courts explains the plea process, while the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission lists the points assigned to specific violations.

Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Ridgewood, New Jersey Today

 The bottom line is that if you’ve been charged with a crime or have received a traffic violation, you need skilled legal representation you can depend on. Fortunately, if you’re reading this, you have come to the right place. Contact The Law Office of Carl Spector today to discuss your case with a seasoned Ridgewood criminal defense lawyer.