What should I do immediately after being arrested in Marlton, NJ?

The most important steps you can take after an arrest are to remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not attempt to explain yourself to police officers or provide information you believe will help your case. Without an attorney present, anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer as soon as you are able. The earlier you involve legal counsel, the more options you will have in building your defense.

Can a criminal charge in New Jersey be reduced or dismissed?

Yes, criminal charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed depending on the circumstances of the case. Factors such as insufficient evidence, procedural violations during the arrest, problems with how evidence was collected, or the strength of your defense strategy can all influence the outcome. An experienced attorney can examine the prosecution's case and identify weaknesses that may lead to reduced charges, a favorable plea agreement, or even a full dismissal. There are no guarantees in any criminal case, but having skilled representation significantly improves your chances of a better outcome.

What is the difference between an indictable crime and a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey?

New Jersey does not use the terms felony and misdemeanor the way many other states do. Instead, serious crimes are called indictable offenses and are divided into four degrees. These cases are handled in Superior Court and carry sentences ranging from 18 months to 20 years. Disorderly persons offenses are less serious and handled in municipal court, with sentences of up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000. However, even a disorderly persons conviction creates a permanent criminal record, which is why any criminal charge deserves the attention of a qualified defense attorney.

How long does a criminal case in Burlington County typically take?

The timeline of a criminal case varies significantly based on the type of charge, the complexity of the evidence, whether the case goes to trial, and how the court's docket is managed. Simple disorderly persons cases may be resolved in a few weeks or months, while indictable offenses can take a year or more to reach a final resolution. An attorney who is familiar with Burlington County courts and procedures can give you a more specific estimate based on the details of your situation and help keep the process moving as efficiently as possible.

Will a criminal conviction in New Jersey follow me for life?

In many cases, yes, a criminal conviction creates a permanent record that can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and more. However, New Jersey does allow for expungement of certain criminal records after a waiting period and under specific conditions. Not all offenses are eligible, and the process requires a formal petition to the court. If you are concerned about the long-term consequences of a criminal record, speaking with a qualified attorney is the best way to understand your options, including whether expungement may be available to you in the future.

Marlton Criminal Lawyer | Criminal Defense Attorney in Marlton, NJ

Attorneys Hartman, Chartered/

Marlton Criminal Lawyer

Don't Face the System Alone, a Criminal Defense Attorney in Marlton, NJ, Is Here to Help

Facing a criminal charge is one of the most serious situations a person can go through. At Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, we understand that when the stakes are this high, you need more than legal paperwork and courtroom appearances. You need a committed Marlton criminal lawyer who will stand beside you, protect your constitutional rights, and build the strongest possible defense for your case. Our firm has served individuals throughout Marlton and the surrounding areas of Burlington County for years, and we bring that local knowledge and legal experience to every client we represent.

Criminal cases move quickly, and the decisions made in the earliest stages of your case can have a lasting impact on the outcome. Hiring skilled legal counsel as early as possible gives you the best chance of protecting your rights and presenting a defense that can challenge the prosecution at every turn. We are a firm that takes this responsibility seriously, and we put that commitment into practice for every single client we serve.

We also understand that the legal process is not just stressful on paper. It is emotionally exhausting. Being accused of a crime can affect your relationships, your career, your housing, and your peace of mind. Our team works hard not just to defend you in the courtroom, but to give you honest guidance and consistent communication so that you never feel lost or abandoned during one of the most difficult times of your life.

If you or someone you love has been charged with a crime in Marlton, do not wait to get help. Reach out to a criminal defense attorney in Marlton, NJ, at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, today. We offer free initial consultations through our online contact form, and we are ready to listen to your situation and explain your options with no obligation.

Don't Face the System Alone, a Criminal Defense Attorney in Marlton, NJ, Is Here to Help
Types of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Marlton, NJ
Understanding Your Rights After an Arrest in Marlton, NJ
Potential Penalties and Consequences of Criminal Charges in Marlton, NJ
What Every Marlton Criminal Lawyer Knows About Local Courts and Enforcement
Why Choose a Criminal Defense Attorney in Marlton, NJ, at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered?
Contact an Experienced Marlton Criminal Lawyer at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, for a Free Case Evaluation

Types of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Marlton, NJ

Our Marlton criminal lawyer team has developed extensive experience and a deep understanding of how criminal cases are handled in Burlington County courts. Whether you are dealing with a minor charge or a serious felony, our team knows what to expect from local prosecutors and judges, and we build defense strategies accordingly. Our firm handles the following types of criminal defense cases in Marlton and throughout the surrounding region:

Drug crime cases in Marlton, NJ: We defend clients against charges related to possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking of controlled substances, including both prescription and illegal drugs.
DUI/DWI cases in Marlton, NJ: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries serious consequences in New Jersey. We challenge evidence, field sobriety tests, and breath test results to protect your license and your freedom.
Traffic crime cases in Marlton, NJ: From reckless driving to leaving the scene of an accident, traffic-related criminal charges can result in license suspension, fines, and even jail time.
Theft and property crime cases in Marlton, NJ: Whether you face shoplifting, burglary, or robbery charges, we work to reduce or dismiss charges based on the specific facts of your situation.
White-collar crime cases in Marlton, NJ: Fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and other financial crimes carry severe penalties. We provide skilled defense for individuals facing complex white-collar investigations and charges.
Sex crime cases in Marlton, NJ: Accusations involving sexual offenses can permanently damage your reputation. We take these cases seriously and provide a thorough, aggressive defense.
Juvenile crime cases in Marlton, NJ: Young people deserve a chance at a better future. We work within New Jersey's juvenile justice system to seek outcomes that protect a young person's long-term opportunities.
Violent crime cases in Marlton, NJ: Charges involving assault, robbery, or homicide require experienced, dedicated representation. We examine every piece of evidence and witness statement to build the strongest defense.
Weapons crime cases in Marlton, NJ: Unlawful possession or use of a firearm or other weapon can result in mandatory minimum sentences. We defend clients against weapons charges at every level.
And more: Our firm handles a broad range of criminal matters. If you are facing charges not listed here, contact us to discuss your case.

No matter the nature of the charges you are facing, Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, is prepared to put our experience, knowledge, and resources to work for you. We understand that every case is different, and we approach each one with the individualized attention and strategic thinking it deserves. Contact our firm today to learn more about how we may be able to help with your specific situation.

856-393-6073Get Help Today. Tell Us Your Story.

Understanding Your Rights After an Arrest in Marlton, NJ

Being placed under arrest is frightening, but knowing your rights and using them immediately can have a significant impact on your case. The most important right you have is the right to remain silent. Under the Fifth Amendment, you cannot be forced to say anything that might be used against you in court. Beyond identifying yourself, you are not required to answer questions from law enforcement without your attorney present.

You also have the Sixth Amendment right to an attorney. Having an attorney who knows local courts, understands Burlington County prosecutors, and is deeply familiar with New Jersey criminal law gives you a far greater advantage than going through the system alone. Contact a criminal defense attorney in Marlton, NJ, as soon as possible after an arrest so your legal team can be present during questioning, gather evidence before it disappears, identify procedural violations, and begin building a defense strategy from the very start.

Potential Penalties and Consequences of Criminal Charges in Marlton, NJ

In New Jersey, serious criminal offenses are classified as indictable crimes, divided into four degrees, with first-degree crimes being the most serious. Disorderly persons offenses are similar to misdemeanors, while petty disorderly persons offenses are the least serious category. The potential penalties and consequences include:

Jail or prison sentences: Indictable crimes can carry prison terms ranging from 18 months to 20 years or more, depending on the degree of the offense. Disorderly persons offenses can result in up to six months in jail.
Fines and restitution: Courts can impose significant monetary penalties, and defendants may also be ordered to pay restitution directly to crime victims.
Probation or parole: Courts may impose supervised probation instead of or in addition to incarceration. Violating the conditions of probation can result in additional penalties and jail time.
Permanent criminal record implications: A conviction creates a permanent record that can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, obtain professional licenses, and qualify for certain government benefits.

Beyond these direct legal penalties, a criminal conviction can carry lasting social and professional consequences. This is exactly why having an experienced criminal defense attorney in Marlton, NJ, matters so much when facing any criminal charge.

What Every Marlton Criminal Lawyer Knows About Local Courts and Enforcement

Marlton is an unincorporated community within Evesham Township in Burlington County, New Jersey. It is a densely populated suburban area with significant commercial activity along Route 73 and the Marlton Parkway corridor. Criminal cases in Marlton are typically processed through the Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly for indictable offenses. Disorderly persons and petty disorderly persons offenses are handled at the local level in municipal court.

An experienced Marlton criminal lawyer who understands local courts, knows the prosecutors, and has appeared before local judges can use that insight to craft defense strategies specific to the environment in which your case will be decided. The area has seen consistent enforcement around DUI and drug-related offenses, particularly given the volume of traffic along major commercial routes. Theft and property crimes are also common in suburban commercial corridors, and juvenile matters carry serious consequences for young people and their families despite the system's focus on rehabilitation.

Why Choose a Criminal Defense Attorney in Marlton, NJ, at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered?

When you choose a Marlton criminal lawyer at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, you are choosing a firm that does not treat you like a case number. We bring the kind of local commitment and personalized attention that can genuinely affect the outcome of your case.

Extensive experience in local courts: Our team has handled criminal cases throughout Burlington County and understands how local courts, judges, and prosecutors operate. That knowledge shapes how we build and present your defense.
Reputation for strong advocacy: We are known in the local legal community for thorough preparation, strategic thinking, and assertive advocacy. Whether negotiating a plea arrangement or arguing your case at trial, we fight for the best possible result.
Personalized defense strategies: We do not apply a generic approach to every case. Your situation is unique, and your defense should reflect that. We take the time to understand the specific facts of your case and build a strategy designed around your goals and circumstances.

Contact an Experienced Marlton Criminal Lawyer at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, for a Free Case Evaluation

If you have been charged with a crime in Marlton, now is the time to act. At Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, we are ready to review your case, explain your rights, and help you understand the legal options available to you. We offer a free initial consultation with no strings attached, and we are committed to providing affordable, transparent representation so that cost is never a barrier to getting the defense you deserve. Use our online contact form today to schedule your free case evaluation. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and working toward the best possible outcome for your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Facing Criminal Charges in Marlton, New Jersey

The most important steps you can take after an arrest are to remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not attempt to explain yourself to police officers or provide information you believe will help your case. Without an attorney present, anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer as soon as you are able. The earlier you involve legal counsel, the more options you will have in building your defense.
Yes, criminal charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed depending on the circumstances of the case. Factors such as insufficient evidence, procedural violations during the arrest, problems with how evidence was collected, or the strength of your defense strategy can all influence the outcome. An experienced attorney can examine the prosecution's case and identify weaknesses that may lead to reduced charges, a favorable plea agreement, or even a full dismissal. There are no guarantees in any criminal case, but having skilled representation significantly improves your chances of a better outcome.
New Jersey does not use the terms felony and misdemeanor the way many other states do. Instead, serious crimes are called indictable offenses and are divided into four degrees. These cases are handled in Superior Court and carry sentences ranging from 18 months to 20 years. Disorderly persons offenses are less serious and handled in municipal court, with sentences of up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000. However, even a disorderly persons conviction creates a permanent criminal record, which is why any criminal charge deserves the attention of a qualified defense attorney.
The timeline of a criminal case varies significantly based on the type of charge, the complexity of the evidence, whether the case goes to trial, and how the court's docket is managed. Simple disorderly persons cases may be resolved in a few weeks or months, while indictable offenses can take a year or more to reach a final resolution. An attorney who is familiar with Burlington County courts and procedures can give you a more specific estimate based on the details of your situation and help keep the process moving as efficiently as possible.
In many cases, yes, a criminal conviction creates a permanent record that can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and more. However, New Jersey does allow for expungement of certain criminal records after a waiting period and under specific conditions. Not all offenses are eligible, and the process requires a formal petition to the court. If you are concerned about the long-term consequences of a criminal record, speaking with a qualified attorney is the best way to understand your options, including whether expungement may be available to you in the future.

Meet Your Team

Katherine D. Hartman, Esquire

Katherine D. Hartman is the Managing Partner in the Moorestown, New Jersey law office of Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, which has been named one of America’s Best Law Firms by U.S. News and World Report. She concentrates her practice in employment discrimination, criminal defense, police disciplinary matters, and other employment law issues. Katie has been practicing law for over thirty years. She was admitted to the New Jersey and Pennsylvania Bars in 1991, the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in November of 1993, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals in November of 2002, and the Supreme Court of the United States in October of 2002.

Katie has been awarded the highest (AV) rating for professional ability and high ethical standards, by Martindale Hubbell. Additionally, Katie has consistently been voted a Super Lawyer by New Jersey Magazine. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations. She was named one of the Top Forty Lawyers under Forty by the New Jersey Law Journal in 2002.

Michael C. Mormando, Esquire

Michael C. Mormando has been practicing law for over twenty years, and is a Partner at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered. Mike is an active member in the Burlington County Bar Association, he is a former Chair of the Bar Associations’ Criminal Practice Committee, and he formerly served as a member of the Supreme Court of New Jersey District Ethics Committee for Burlington County, District III-B. Mike also served two years as Councilman for Ward 3 in Delran Township, having been elected to the post in the November 2018 general election, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Delran Township Zoning Board.

Mike’s areas of practice include criminal defense, DUI defense, traffic violation defense, employment law, discrimination and whistleblower cases, unemployment compensation appeals, labor representation for collective bargaining units, employment contract review and negotiations, and defense in police disciplinary matters. Mike is approved by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) as a lawyer who can represent law enforcement officers who face disciplinary or criminal charges. Mike also represents small business owners concerning employment issues.