Facing Criminal Charges in Union County? Get a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney on Your Side.

If you have been arrested and charged with a crime in Union County, New Jersey, you are likely feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and uncertain about your future. A criminal charge, whether it’s a disorderly persons offense in a municipal court or a serious indictable crime at the Union County Superior Court in Elizabeth, carries the potential for severe and life-altering consequences. This is not a battle you should fight alone.

You need an experienced, aggressive, and knowledgeable legal advocate who understands the local court system and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and your freedom. Brett M. Rosen, Esq., is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Criminal Trial Attorney—a distinction held by less than 1% of attorneys in the state—who focuses his practice on defending the accused throughout Union County. From Linden to Summit, and from Plainfield to Union Township, Mr. Rosen provides strategic, trial-tested defense for his clients.

Comprehensive Defense for All Union County Criminal Charges

Brett M. Rosen, Esq. has extensive experience defending clients against a wide array of criminal allegations. We understand the tactics used by prosecutors and law enforcement in Union County and are prepared to challenge the evidence at every turn. Our firm handles cases including, but not limited to:

Indictable Crimes (Felonies) Prosecuted at the Union County Superior Court:

• Aggravated Assault (N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b): A serious charge that can result from causing significant bodily injury or using a deadly weapon.
• Drug Crimes (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-1 et seq.): Including possession, distribution, and intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances (CDS) like cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and unauthorized prescription drugs.
• Weapons Offenses (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-1 et seq.): Such as unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and being a certain person not to have weapons.
• Theft and Property Crimes: Including burglary (N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2), robbery (N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1), and theft by deception.
• Domestic Violence (N.J.S.A. 2C:25-17 et seq.): Often involves allegations of assault, harassment, or terroristic threats, and can lead to a final restraining order (FRO).
• Sex Crimes: Including sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child, which carry severe penalties and Megan’s Law registration requirements.

Disorderly Persons Offenses (Misdemeanors) Handled in Municipal Courts:

• Simple Assault (N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1a): A common charge resulting from fights or minor physical altercations.
• Driving While Intoxicated (DWI/DUI) (N.J.S.A. 39:4-50): A serious traffic offense with potential mandatory license suspension and potential jail time.
• Shoplifting (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11): Depending on the value of the merchandise.
• Harassment (N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4) and Disorderly Conduct (N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Potential Penalties for Criminal Convictions in New Jersey

The consequences of a conviction are significant and depend on the degree of the crime. It is crucial to understand what is at stake.

Beyond these penalties, a criminal record can create lifelong obstacles, impacting your ability to find employment, secure housing, obtain professional licenses, or even apply for a loan.

Strategic Criminal Defense in Union County

A successful defense begins with a thorough investigation of your case. Brett M. Rosen, Esq. will meticulously analyze every piece of evidence, from police reports to witness statements, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Potential defenses may include:

• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, we can file a motion to suppress the evidence obtained from the illegal search.
• Violation of Miranda Rights: If you were interrogated in custody without being read your rights, any statements you made may be inadmissible in court.
• Lack of Probable Cause for Arrest: An arrest made without sufficient probable cause is unlawful.
• Challenging the Credibility of Witnesses: We will cross-examine the state’s witnesses to expose inconsistencies, biases, or falsehoods in their testimony.
• Mistaken Identity: Eyewitness misidentification is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. We can challenge unreliable identification procedures.
• Affirmative Defenses: In some cases, we may argue self-defense, defense of others, duress, or entrapment.
• Negotiating for Diversionary Programs: For eligible first-time offenders, we can advocate for entry into programs like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) or Conditional Discharge, which can lead to the dismissal of your charges upon successful completion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Should I talk to the police if I’m being investigated for a crime? A: No. You have the right to remain silent. You should politely decline to answer any questions and state that you wish to speak with an attorney. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

Q: I was only charged with a disorderly persons offense. Do I really need a lawyer? A: Yes. A conviction for even a “minor” offense results in a permanent criminal record, which can have long-term negative consequences. An experienced attorney can often negotiate a downgrade of the charges or an outright dismissal, protecting your record.

Q: What is the difference between being charged in Municipal Court and Superior Court? A: Municipal courts in Union County handle disorderly persons offenses, petty disorderly persons offenses, and traffic matters. The Union County Superior Court in Elizabeth handles more serious indictable crimes (felonies). The potential penalties are far greater in Superior Court.

Q: Can my criminal record be expunged in New Jersey? A: Many criminal records can be cleared through a legal process called expungement after a certain waiting period has passed without any new convictions. We can evaluate your case to determine if you are eligible for an expungement.

Q: What makes you different from other criminal defense lawyers in Union County? A: Brett M. Rosen is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Criminal Trial Attorney. This prestigious certification requires a rigorous application process, a history of substantial trial experience, a positive reputation among judges and fellow attorneys, and passing a specialized written examination. It is a testament to his expertise and commitment to the field of criminal law.

Contact Union County Criminal Attorney Brett Rosen

If you or a loved one is facing a criminal charge in Union County, New Jersey, contact his office today at 908-312-0368. 

Office Location: 100 Jefferson Avenue, Suite 301, Elizabeth, NJ 07201

Disclaimer: This website contains general information about legal matters and is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information on this site without seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.