Charged With a Felony-Level Crime in New Jersey? Your Freedom Is on the Line

In New Jersey, serious criminal charges are called indictable offenses—not felonies—but they carry felony-level consequences. A conviction can mean years in prison, permanent loss of rights, and a record that limits everything from employment to housing. Prosecutors in Camden and Burlington Counties take these cases seriously. So should you.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we defend clients facing felony-level indictable charges throughout Cherry Hill, Trenton, and South Jersey. From drug distribution to aggravated assault to white collar crimes, we provide strategic representation backed by courtroom experience and a clear understanding of New Jersey’s criminal statutes.

What Is an Indictable Offense in New Jersey?

While other states use the term “felony,” New Jersey refers to these charges as “indictable offenses.” These are crimes punishable by more than 6 months in jail and are tried in Superior Court.

There are four degrees of indictable offenses:

• First-Degree: 10–20 years in prison (e.g., armed robbery, aggravated sexual assault, homicide)
• Second-Degree: 5–10 years (e.g., drug distribution, certain gun offenses, aggravated assault)
• Third-Degree: 3–5 years (e.g., burglary, possession of CDS, theft over $500)
• Fourth-Degree: Up to 18 months (e.g., stalking, some shoplifting, credit card fraud)

Convictions typically include fines, mandatory assessments, probation conditions, and long-term collateral consequences.

Common Felony-Level Charges We Defend

We represent clients charged with a wide range of indictable crimes in South Jersey, including:

• Drug trafficking and possession with intent
• Gun possession without a permit or during a crime
• Aggravated assault and domestic violence
• Robbery, burglary, and carjacking
• Financial crimes and embezzlement
• Sexual offenses, including endangering the welfare of a child
• Internet-based offenses and cybercrime
• Aggravated arson or criminal mischief
• Resisting arrest or obstruction

We defend cases in Camden, Burlington, and Gloucester County Superior Courts.

Our Felony Defense Strategy in Superior Court

Every felony case starts with a detailed review of the evidence and constitutional issues. Our approach includes:

• Challenging probable cause for arrest or search
• Filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
• Exposing gaps in the prosecution’s narrative
• Negotiating downgrade or diversion options (PTI, Drug Court)
• Assembling mitigation packages for sentencing or bail hearings
• Preparing for trial when the state won’t negotiate

Our attorneys work quickly to preserve evidence, secure expert testimony, and evaluate plea offers before the state builds leverage.

Early Intervention Makes the Difference

Felony cases move from arrest to indictment quickly in New Jersey. But that window allows critical defense work to begin:

• Gathering favorable witness statements
• Reviewing body camera and dashcam footage
• Disputing lab results or forensic procedures
• Negotiating pre-indictment dismissal or downgrade
• Pushing for alternative programs like Pretrial Intervention

If you’re contacted by police or under investigation, you do not need to wait to be arrested before hiring a lawyer.

Felony Defense FAQs for South Jersey Residents

What’s the difference between a felony and an indictable offense in NJ?
In New Jersey, we don’t use the term “felony.” Indictable offenses are equivalent and carry similar penalties—state prison time, fines, and a permanent record.

Will I go to jail if I’m charged with a second-degree crime?
Not necessarily. While second-degree offenses carry a presumption of incarceration, an experienced attorney may argue for downgraded charges, Pretrial Intervention, or probation in appropriate cases.

Can a felony charge be expunged in New Jersey?
Yes, under certain conditions. Most indictable offenses can be expunged after five years from the completion of sentence, assuming no new charges and all fines are paid.

Do I have to speak to police after I’m charged?
No. You have the right to remain silent and to an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. It is critical to consult with counsel before speaking to law enforcement.

What if I was charged in the past but never convicted?
If charges were dismissed or you were found not guilty, you may be eligible to expunge your record immediately. We assist with post-case record clearing for eligible clients.

Speak With a Cherry Hill Felony Defense Lawyer Today

Whether you’re charged with drug distribution, aggravated assault, or fraud, a felony-level case in New Jersey must be taken seriously from day one. At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we fight to protect your freedom, record, and reputation in Superior Court.

Call (856) 209-3111 or email [email protected] to schedule a confidential consultation. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have to shape your outcome.