Felon in Possession Lawyer Burlington County, NJ
Being charged as a felon in possession of a firearm in Burlington County carries serious consequences. New Jersey law prohibits anyone previously convicted of a felony from knowingly possessing any firearm. If you are facing such a charge, the need for experienced legal guidance is immediate. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals accused of weapons offenses in Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and throughout Burlington County. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, leads a team of Of Counsel who understand the gravity of felon-in-possession allegations and work to protect clientsʼ rights at every stage. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What It Means to Be Charged as a Felon in Possession of a Firearm in Burlington County
Under New Jersey law, a person convicted of a felony is prohibited from purchasing, owning, or possessing a firearm. When someone with a prior felony is found with a weapon, they can be charged under the state’s “certain persons” statute. In most cases involving a firearm, the offense is classified as a second-degree crime. In Burlington County, second-degree crimes carry a prison term of five to ten years and a presumption of incarceration. The court will also consider a mandatory minimum period of parole ineligibility under the Graves Act, which means any sentence may require a substantial term of actual jail time before parole consideration.
Cases are prosecuted in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Burlington Vicinage, located at 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060. The court hears all indictable offenses. Because the stakes are so high—including the potential for a decades-long prison sentence and a permanent criminal record—it is critical to have counsel who knows the local procedures and the nuances of New Jersey weapons law.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients from across Burlington County: Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton. The firm’s New Jersey location in Tinton Falls handles matters at the Burlington Vicinage by appointment.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felon-in-Possession Cases
When Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel take on a felon-in-possession charge, they begin by carefully examining the predicate offense—the prior felony that the State claims disqualifies the individual. Not every prior felony automatically triggers the prohibition. For example, the State must prove that the conviction was for a qualifying offense and that the person knowingly possessed the firearm. If the prior conviction is ambiguous, was not properly entered, or falls outside the statutory definition, a motion to dismiss may be warranted.
The team also investigates how the weapon was discovered. Many cases arise from traffic stops or warrantless searches. If law enforcement violated the client’s Fourth Amendment rights by conducting an illegal search or seizure, the evidence may be suppressed. Similarly, if the firearm was not actually possessed or was mistakenly attributed, fact-based challenges can weaken the State’s case. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel provide a thorough case assessment, negotiate with prosecutors, and, when necessary, prepare for trial. They work toward a resolution that minimizes the impact on the client’s freedom, record, and family. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who brings an in-depth understanding of how the State builds its cases to the defense of individuals accused of serious crimes. Mr. Sris is admitted to the bars of Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and has testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Mr. Sris is joined by a team of Of Counsel attorneys—non-employee practitioners who are engaged through Excella. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to every matter they handle. They serve Burlington County clients with the same dedication and attention to detail that the firm has applied since its founding. Results may vary. In your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Jersey have cash bail for felon-in-possession charges?
No. New Jersey abolished cash bail in January 2017 under the Criminal Justice Reform Act. Pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA)—a computerized risk score—not money. However, a judge can still detain a defendant without bail if the State proves by clear and convincing evidence that no conditions of release would reasonably assure community safety. Our firm has extensive experience presenting favorable release arguments at detention hearings in Burlington County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented case results across practice areas; Results may vary.
What are the possible penalties for a felon-in-possession conviction in New Jersey?
If the weapon is a firearm, the charge is typically a second-degree crime carrying five to ten years in prison and a presumption of incarceration. A mandatory minimum parole disqualifier under the Graves Act often applies, meaning a defendant must serve a significant portion of the sentence before becoming parole eligible. If the weapon is not a firearm, the offense may be graded as a third-degree crime with three to five years in prison. Fines, loss of certain civil rights, and a permanent criminal record are common consequences. Results may vary.
Can a convicted felon ever legally possess a firearm again in New Jersey?
Generally, no—the prohibition is permanent, but there are very limited avenues for relief. New Jersey’s “certain persons” law imposes a lifetime ban on firearm possession for many felony convictions. Some individuals may pursue a petition for a certificate of rehabilitation or apply for a governor’s pardon, though these remedies are rarely granted. Federal law also independently prohibits felons from possessing firearms under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). An experienced attorney can evaluate whether any exception might apply to your specific situation.
What should I do if I am arrested for felon in possession in Burlington County?
First, exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Do not discuss the facts of the case with law enforcement until you have legal representation. The court may set a detention hearing quickly; having counsel present from the earliest stage is crucial to protecting your release argument and your defense. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can evaluate your case and explain your options.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) and does it apply to a weapons charge?
PTI is a diversion program for certain first-time indictable offenders in Burlington County. Successful completion of one to three years of supervision results in the dismissal of charges. However, PTI is generally not available for violent offenses, and a felon-in-possession charge involving a firearm may be considered a serious crime that does not qualify. Conditional discharge and other diversion programs are also limited in weapons cases. An attorney can determine whether any pretrial diversion or deferred prosecution alternative is available in your specific circumstances. Results may vary. Depending on the facts of the case.
How do I find an experienced felon-in-possession lawyer in Burlington County?
Look for a lawyer who is familiar with both the New Jersey Criminal Justice Reform Act and the Superior Court procedures in Burlington County. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled weapons charges throughout New Jersey and appear regularly at the Burlington Vicinage. To discuss your case, call (888) 437-7747 or reach our firm to schedule a consultation.
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