Financial Crimes Lawyer Somerset County — Defending Against Fraud & Theft Charges
Financial crimes in Somerset County, such as fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft, are prosecuted as indictable offenses under N.J.S.A. Title 2C, carrying severe penalties. If you are under investigation or charged, securing a skilled financial crimes lawyer Somerset County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate defense, leveraging Mr.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Financial crimes encompass a wide range of illegal activities involving deception for financial gain. In New Jersey, these are governed by the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice (N.J.S.A. Title 2C). Common charges include theft by deception (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4), credit card fraud (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-6), identity theft (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-17), and money laundering (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-25). These are not simple matters; they are typically indictable crimes (felony equivalents) heard in the Somerset County Superior Court, Criminal Division, located at 20 North Bridge Street in Somerville. The consequences of a conviction extend beyond fines and prison, often including restitution orders, permanent damage to your professional reputation, and loss of licensure.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a unique advantage to these complex cases. Mr. Sris’s educational background in accounting and information systems provides a critical lens for dissecting financial evidence, tracing transactions, and challenging the prosecution’s case on technical grounds. This experience is vital when facing agencies like the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Financial Crimes Unit or federal investigators.
Understanding Financial Crime Charges & Penalties in Somerset County
New Jersey classifies the severity of financial crimes based on the amount of money involved and the specific method used. The degree of the crime dictates the potential penalties.
In Somerset County, financial crimes like theft by deception can range from a disorderly persons offense for amounts under $200 to a second-degree crime for amounts over $75,000, with penalties escalating to decades in state prison.
| Offense (Examples) | Classification (Degree) | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft by Deception $200-$500 | Disorderly Persons | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
| Theft by Deception $500-$75,000 | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, No Early Release Act (NERA) may apply |
| Theft by Deception over $75,000 | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Presumption of imprisonment, restitution, NERA |
| Identity Theft | 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Degree | 18 months – 10 years | Varies by degree | Restitution to victims, permanent record |
| Money Laundering | 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Degree | 3-20 years | Up to $500,000 or 2x value of property | Asset forfeiture, federal implications |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Approach to Financial Crimes Defense in Somerset County
Defending against financial crime allegations requires a meticulous, detail-oriented strategy from the outset. The process in Somerset County typically follows these steps:
- Immediate Case Assessment: Upon contact, we analyze the allegations, whether from a summons, indictment, or pre-indictment investigation. We identify the specific statutes cited and the evidence the state claims to have.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: We conduct our own investigation, which may involve reviewing financial records, contracts, emails, and witness statements. We scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence for chain-of-custody issues, errors in accounting, or lack of proof of criminal intent.
- Strategic Negotiation or Motion Practice: Based on the evidence, we may negotiate for a reduction in charges (e.g., from a 2nd to a 3rd-degree crime) or seek entry into a diversionary program like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for eligible first-time offenders. If the evidence is weak, we file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial Preparation & Advocacy: If a favorable resolution cannot be reached, we prepare for trial in Somerset County Superior Court. We build a defense narrative, often focusing on lack of intent, authorization for transactions, or mistaken identity, and advocate vigorously before a jury.
Our firm-wide experience of over 4,739 documented case results informs every strategy. For an affordable financial crimes lawyer Somerset County residents can rely on, our firm offers clear fee structures and payment plans. We understand the stress of these charges and work to resolve them efficiently.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Financial Crimes Defense?
When searching for a financial crimes lawyer near me Somerset County, consider the specific experience required. Our firm is built on a foundation of over 120 years of combined legal experience since its founding in 1997. We are not a high-volume practice; we focus on providing strategic, case-specific defense. Mr. Sris’s unique background is a direct asset in financial cases, allowing him to communicate effectively with forensic experts and challenge the state’s financial evidence on its own terms. We serve clients throughout Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, and Hillsborough.
Contact Our Somerset County Financial Crimes Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New Jersey location represents clients at the Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville. We serve communities across the county, including Bound Brook, Warren Township, Watchung, and Bernardsville. If you are under investigation or have been charged with a financial crime, do not delay. Contact us for a confidential consultation.
Financial Crimes Defense FAQ in Somerset County
What should I do if I am under investigation for a financial crime in NJ?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a financial crimes lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you. A lawyer can advise you on your rights, potentially intervene before charges are filed, and guide you on preserving evidence.
Can I go to PTI for a financial crime in Somerset County?
It depends. Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is available for many first-time offenders charged with indictable (felony-level) crimes. Eligibility depends on the nature of the offense, your criminal history, and the prosecutor’s recommendation. A skilled attorney can advocate strongly for your admission into PTI, which can lead to a dismissal upon successful completion.
What is the difference between theft and theft by deception?
Theft involves unlawfully taking someone’s property. Theft by deception (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4) specifically involves obtaining property by creating or reinforcing a false impression, such as through fraudulent statements, misrepresentations, or the use of bad checks. The penalties are based on the value of the property taken.
Are there defenses to identity theft charges?
Yes. Common defenses include lack of intent (you did not knowingly use another’s identity), mistaken identity, lack of evidence linking you to the crime, or that you had permission to use the personal information. An attorney will investigate the specific facts to identify the strongest defense.
What happens in a federal financial crime case?
Federal financial crimes (e.g., wire fraud, bank fraud, securities fraud) are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. These cases involve complex laws like 18 U.S.C., follow federal procedural rules, and carry severe penalties under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. You need an attorney experienced in federal court.
Internal Links: For related legal help, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub, or learn about Federal Criminal Defense in Somerset County. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Hunterdon County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.