Machine Gun Offense Lawyer Union County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A machine gun offense in Union County is a serious indictable crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5, prosecuted in Superior Court. Conviction carries severe penalties, including mandatory prison time. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these complex charges. Our machine gun offense lawyer Union County team is ready to protect your rights. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey law strictly prohibits the possession, sale, or transfer of machine guns. The statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5, classifies these offenses as second-degree crimes, which are the equivalent of felonies in other states. These cases are heard in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth. The prosecution of these charges is aggressive, given the state’s stringent gun control laws. A conviction can result in a presumption of imprisonment under New Jersey’s sentencing guidelines. You need an experienced machine gun offense lawyer Union County to handle the details of your case.
Official New Jersey Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures and forms for Union County can be found at the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for a Machine Gun Offense in Union County
Machine gun charges begin with an investigation, often by county or state police, skilled to an arrest or summons. The case proceeds directly to the Union County Superior Court, Criminal Division, as it is an indictable offense. New Jersey’s bail reform means pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not cash bail. The discovery process is critical, as the state must prove you knowingly possessed a firearm meeting the legal definition of a machine gun.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or upon learning of the investigation.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all police reports, lab analyses, and evidence from the prosecution.
- A detention hearing may be held to argue for your release pending trial under New Jersey’s bail reform rules.
- The case will be presented to a grand jury for indictment; your lawyer can present mitigating evidence at this stage.
- Your defense will negotiate with prosecutors or prepare for trial, focusing on legal definitions, search and seizure issues, and lack of knowledge.
- If convicted, your attorney will advocate at sentencing to argue against the presumption of imprisonment.
Potential Penalties for a Machine Gun Offense in New Jersey
In Union County, a machine gun offense is a second-degree crime carrying 5 to 10 years in state prison, with a presumption of imprisonment, and fines up to $150,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (Presumption of Imprisonment) | Up to $150,000 | Loss of Firearm Purchaser ID & Permits | Graves Act mandatory minimum; permanent felony record; forfeiture of weapon. |
| Sale/Transfer of a Machine Gun | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (Presumption of Imprisonment) | Up to $150,000 | Loss of Firearm Purchaser ID & Permits | Graves Act mandatory minimum; permanent felony record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Union County Machine Gun Charge
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years, with more than 4,739 documented case results and a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a machine gun offense in Union County and provide a focused, case-specific defense. Our team includes former prosecutors who know how the other side builds a case.
Case Experience in New Jersey Courts
While specific local case counts for this charge are not published, our firm has a strong record of defending serious indictable offenses throughout New Jersey, including in Union County Superior Court. We have successfully challenged evidence, negotiated favorable resolutions, and taken cases to trial when necessary. Our familiarity with the judges, prosecutors, and procedures in the Union Vicinage is a key asset for your defense. For an affordable machine gun offense lawyer Union County, our firm provides experienced representation focused on your best possible outcome.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
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 serves clients facing charges at the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth. We represent individuals from Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. If you are searching for a “machine gun offense lawyer near me Union County,” we are here to help. Contact us 24/7 to discuss your case.
Machine Gun Offense Lawyer Union County FAQ
What is considered a machine gun under New Jersey law?
Yes. New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-1) defines a machine gun as any firearm that can fire more than one shot automatically, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. This includes converted semi-automatic weapons and parts designed to convert a firearm.
Is there a mandatory prison sentence for a machine gun charge in NJ?
Yes. A machine gun offense is a Graves Act crime, which carries a mandatory minimum period of parole ineligibility. For a second-degree offense, the mandatory minimum is typically between one-third and one-half of the base sentence, which must be served in state prison.
Can a machine gun charge be reduced or dismissed?
It depends. While challenging, defenses may involve challenging the weapon’s classification, proving lack of knowledge, or contesting an illegal search. In some cases, negotiations may lead to a reduction to a lesser firearm charge, especially for first-time offenders or where evidentiary weaknesses exist.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for a machine gun offense?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a criminal defense lawyer. An attorney can advise you on your rights, potentially intervene before charges are filed, and begin building a defense strategy to protect your future.
Where will my machine gun case be heard in Union County?
All machine gun offenses are indictable crimes (felonies) in New Jersey. Your case will be heard in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth, NJ 07207.
For related legal help, see our pages for a Union County criminal defense lawyer or a Union County federal criminal lawyer. For statewide information, visit our New Jersey criminal defense lawyer hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.