The process of being arrested can be painful and traumatic. Furthermore, the prospect of navigating the judicial system after an arrest can seem overwhelming. Thankfully, the team at our law firm is ready to offer thorough support to defendants during each stage of their cases.
If you have been accused of a crime, we can review your case to determine the proper course of action. Furthermore, we can help build your defense and fight to ensure that your rights are protected.
Get help from our experienced criminal defense lawyers at the Lombardo Law Group, LLC by dialing (609) 445-4300 today.
Examples of Cases Our Lawyers Can Handle in Cape May, NJ
Our criminal defense lawyers can help defend against a variety of different charges. For example, our legal team can assist with any of the following types of cases:
Assault Cases
Assault charges can come in multiple forms. For example, a defendant may be charged with simple assault for making offensive physical contact. Meanwhile, aggravated assault may be charged in a case involving serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon.
The penalties for assault charges can vary depending on the severity of the offense and the potential presence of aggravating factors. Simple assault is typically a disorderly persons offense, punishable by up to six months in jail and fines. Meanwhile, aggravated assault can be charged as a second-degree crime with more serious penalties.
Gun Crimes Cases
Gun crimes often involve unlawful possession, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, or even the use of a firearm during the commission of another crime. The penalties for gun crimes can be severe and may include lengthy prison terms. For instance, unlawful possession of a firearm can be a second-degree offense with up to ten years in prison. Further, using a firearm during a crime can result in additional sentences being added on top of an underlying offense.
Drug Crimes Cases
Drug crimes encompass various different offenses including possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking of illegal substances. The penalties for drug crimes are influenced by factors like the type and quantity of drugs involved, the intent of the defendant, and their criminal history. For example, possession of a small amount of marijuana may be considered a disorderly persons offense. On the other hand, possession of larger quantities or more dangerous drugs like heroin or cocaine can result in more severe charges.
Domestic Violence Cases
Domestic violence can involve physical abuse, harassment, sexual assault, and other forms of criminal conduct. For these acts to be considered domestic violence, they must be committed against a current or former intimate partner, household member, or family member.
Penalties for domestic violence offenses can include jail time, mandatory counseling, fines, and limitations on parental rights or firearm possession. Our legal team understands the sensitive nature of domestic violence cases and approaches them with empathy and discretion.
Record Expungements
A record expungement can clear your criminal record, making it unavailable to the public. However, only certain criminal offenses may be eligible for expungement after a specified waiting period.
Having a clean record can significantly impact your future opportunities, such as employment and housing prospects, allowing you to move forward with greater confidence. Still, the process for pursuing a record expungement can be complex without assistance from experienced legal representation.
DWI Cases
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charges are assessed when individuals operate their vehicles with blood alcohol concentrations of 0.08% or higher. Penalties for DWI can include fines, license suspensions, mandatory participation in alcohol education programs, and even jail sentences. Also, a DWI conviction may result in increased insurance rates and a lasting stain on your driving record.
Should You Talk to the Police After Being Arrested in Cape May, NJ?
If you have been arrested in Cape May, you should not speak with the police until you have first consulted with legal representation.
Anything you say to the police during questioning can be used against you in court. Even innocent statements can be misinterpreted or used out of context, leading to unintended consequences.
Furthermore, police officers are trained in interrogation techniques. During questioning, their primary objective is to gather information to build a case against you. Without our skilled attorneys by your side, you may inadvertently say something that could harm your defense.
Thankfully, upon your arrest, you have the right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. Exercise this right and avoid answering questions until you have spoken with our legal team.
How a Conviction Can Affect Your Life in Cape May, NJ
Convicted defendants can face serious issues when attempting to get their lives back on track. For example, the following are all potential problems encountered by defendants with criminal records:
Employment Opportunities
A criminal record can be a significant obstacle to finding employment. When an employer conducts a background check, a criminal conviction may lead to the applicant being disqualified from consideration for the job.
Housing Difficulties
Finding suitable housing can also be challenging for individuals with criminal records. Landlords often conduct background checks on prospective tenants, and a criminal conviction can lead to rejections or limitations on housing options.
Stigma and Social Relationships
Having a criminal record can also lead to social stigma and strained relationships with family, friends, and the broader community. Convicted defendants may face judgment, prejudice, or isolation, making it harder for them to reintegrate into society.
Educational Opportunities
Some educational institutions may deny admission or expel students with certain criminal records. This limitation can prevent individuals from pursuing higher education and, in turn, limit their professional opportunities.
Parental Rights and Custody Issues
For individuals with children, a criminal record can have implications on parental rights and custody arrangements. Depending on the nature of a conviction, it may be used to limit an individual’s access to their children.
Call Our Criminal Defense Attorneys for Assistance with Your Case in Cape May, NJ
Get support from our experienced criminal defense lawyers by calling Lombardo Law Group, LLC at (609) 445-4300.
