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Prompt & Strategic Action to Criminal Charges or Investigations

We understand that an arrest is a harrowing and difficult experience. While you may not want to think about or dwell on your arrest and charges, it can be essential that you hire a lawyer who will immediately start working to reduce or eliminate the charges against you.

If you or a loved one has been arrested or is under investigation for criminal charges in Atlantic or Cape May Counties, do not hesitate to call our criminal defense attorneys. We are ready to stand with any client, regardless of how bad the situation may seem.

What Our Clients Say About Us

"...the best representation you will ever find in South Jersey."

"John and Brenden are the best representation you will ever find in South Jersey. This law firm is highly regarded in this area because they are professionals. They will explain entire process, ease your anxiety and have your case dismissed! honestly other attorneys will take you for a ride, really do not care and no results. Zarach Law Firm is quality. You will not be dissapointed. I highly recommend them. A++++"

- Sarah K.
Google Reviews

"Words fall short of my being able to properly convey how much today’s fabulous result means to my entire family."

"I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the wonderful legal representation that you provided to my son. As you know, matters such as this weigh heavily upon an entire family. In the more than 6 months that this matter was hanging in the balance ... I had unconditional faith in your commitment to and talent demonstrated on behalf of my son. Words fall short in terms of my being able to properly convey how much today’s fabulous result means to my entire family."

- A Grateful Father
Client Testimonial

"I couldn’t have asked for any better representation."

"Absolutely an outstanding lawyer. I couldn’t have asked for any better representation. John J Zarych and associates were very reassuring and comforting from the beginning to the end. For a first time offense, I was scared out of my mind, I spoke to John J Zarych and from the initial meeting with him, he went more in depth than anyone I’d spoken to, he made sure I was in understanding of the entire process. He went above and beyond in court, and he managed to get my charge dismissed. Better than expected. John J Zarych and Associates will definitely be saved for future reference to anyone I come across needing his services. I would highly recommend him to anyone."

- Alex C.
Google Reviews

"If it was not for their dedication, knowledge and devotion... I would not be free today."

"John Zarych and Brenden Shur are two exceptionally skilled criminal defense attorneys in a class entirely of their own. I was wrongfully accused of a horrible crime, arrested and extradited to NJ from FL...I was terrified, hopeless and in desperate need of a highly qualified, experienced legal team. From the moment I met John and Brenden I knew they were it! They went above and beyond to ensure that every day I felt supported and not alone...If it was not for their dedication, knowledge and devotion to the application of law and presenting the truth, I would not be free today. They are fearless and exhibit an unwavering commitment to their clients...They are the GOLD STANDARD of criminal defense attorneys...I owe my life to these men (and their AMAZING office staff)...they will not stop fighting for you until they get you the best possible outcome. From the legal courtroom to the court of public opinion, John Zarych and Brenden Shur will have your back the entire way."

- Josephine S.
Google Reviews

“We called John Zarych because we honestly did not know what to do…Thanks to his expertise they were able to guide us through what could have been the end…”

“About four months ago my son found himself in a very dangerous situation. We called your firm because we honestly did not know what to do. We were confused and scared. Thanks to your expertise you were able to guide us through what could have been the end of my son’s life if he was prosecuted. You didn’t make us feel judged or deviant. You were also very mindful of the family who was charging my son with crime. I want to thank you so much for impacting my son’s life in such a positive, meaningful way.

- Patricia L
Google Reviews

"Thank you for defending me."

"Brenden treats you with absolute respect and keeps you informed regarding your options on your case. They sent me audio and video of my confrontation with the State Police and they never left me worried or clueless. These are crucial after being charged, because you're under attack from the State. John Zarych and Brenden Shur have my trust and respect. Thank you for defending me."

- Nicholas S.
Google Reviews

"As a parent I wanted the best counsel for my daughter and this incident could have derailed her promising future."

"John and his team showed as much care and concern before I hired him as they did once we made it official. As a parent I wanted the best counsel for my daughter and this incident could have derailed her promising future. John and his team worked closely with us and discussed the best path to address her legal issue. They put in the extra effort and it paid off with the best possible outcome - charges dismissed! The initial stress felt by the whole family was off the charts but was immediately diffused when we knew that we had John and his team on our side. Thank you John and Staff!"

- Kathleen T.
Google Reviews

"Best Criminal Defense Branch in all New Jersey..."

Best Criminal Defense Branch in all New Jersey Highly Recommended!!

- Precisse N.
Google Reviews

"I am so thankful for this team and what they did for me!"

"I had a ticket that I was worried it would affect my clean abstract and John and his office helped me out! I am so thankful for this team and what they did for me! I totally recommend them!"

- Nikki F.
Google Reviews

"My expectations were exceeded..."

"My expectations were exceeded by the outstanding work and utmost professionalism of the attorneys and staff at the law offices of John J. Zarych."

- Bethany L.
Google Reviews

"Good guy honest..."

- Eileen H.
Google Reviews

"...all the false charges against my wife were dropped."

"Mr. Zarych and his firm defended my wife in a case where she was involved in a traffic accident. The other person involved was cited by the police. In an attempt to have the charges against him dropped, he made threats to my wife and he filed false charges against her. This really upset my wife. When we met with Mr. Zarych after what was an ongoing traumatic experience, he assured us of an extremely aggressive and through defense. Throughout this experience we were provided with great support and kept informed of all developments regularly. We truly were provided with a very aggressive and through defense. The outcome was that all the false charges against my wife were dropped. The man who crashed into my wife was found guilty of all charges. Mr. Zarych did what he said he was going to do and we are very grateful for the efforts of Mr. Zarych and his firm who went above and beyond."

- Bill
Client Testimonial

"Simply put, without you, the outcome for our son would have been much different."

Dear John and Team, I am writing this letter to sincerely thank you for your help with the legal proceedings for our son, which favorably concluded today at the Cape May County Court House after nine (9) long months.

Because our son was a first-time offender, my wife and I went into this process totally naïve as to what to expect from the juvenile legal process. Although we agree that his crime certainly warranted some level of punishment, we are absolutely and totally dismayed at the intense fervor with which the District Attorney (DA) pursued the most severe penalties.

Without your keen legal guidance and ability to navigate the frightening waters of the judicial system, he would likely have ended up with the most severe consequences. Instead, with your help, he was given an opportunity to demonstrate that he is a young man worthy of a second chance.

Simply put, without you, the outcome for our son would have been much different and almost certainly caused irreparable damage to his future.You and your entire staff have our sincere gratitude and appreciation.

- Michael (father of a client)
Client Testimonial

"From the bottom of my heart I can't thank you enough for how you helped my son get through his worst nightmare."

"Dear Mr. Zarych, about four months ago my son found himself in a very dangerous situation. We called your firm because we honestly did not know what to do. We were confused and scared. Thanks to your expertise you were able to guide us through what could have been the end of my son's life if he was prosecuted. You handled my son's case with such sensitivity and grace. You didn't make us feel judged or deviant. You were also very mindful of the family who was charging my son with crime. I want to thank you so much for impacting my son's life in such a positive, meaningful way. I know he felt very comfortable with you and will heed your advice.I would also like to thank Stephanie Zarych and Brenden Shur. Both attorneys helped tremendously with our questions and concerns. Also your staff behind the desk was wonderful. Their professionalism and kindness will never be forgotten. From the bottom of my heart I can't thank you enough for how you helped my son get through his worst nightmare. May God bless you and your staff for all you do!"

- A Very Grateful Mother
Client Testimonial

"We would recommend The Law Offices of John Zarych to anyone looking for an outstanding criminal attorney."

We were completely blindsided by an accusation against our son, who is a high school senior. Needless to say we were completely upset and confused as to what to do. Not handled correctly could have been detrimental to our son for the rest of his life. By the grace of God we came upon John Zarych's Law Office. John's instruction, advice, guidance, and support were invaluable to us, in addressing this most horrific and heartbreaking situation. His professionalism and attention, as well as , his overall handling of the matter resulted in a dismissal of the accusation. We are most appreciative of not only John's expertise as an attorney, but his devotion and concerned for his client's best interest. John is a person with high morals and values, and can be trusted explicitly. We would recommend The Law Offices of John Zarych to anyone looking for an outstanding criminal attorney.

- Father of a Highschool Senior
Client Testimonial

"I was falsely accused on three counts of assault, which is a nightmare considering that I am a public school teacher."

"I was falsely accused on three counts of assault, which is a nightmare considering that I am a public school teacher. John Zarych came highly recommended from a family member and after meeting with him, I knew that he was the right person to help me. John did not waste any time before gathering evidence towards my case and did an excellent job discovering evidence which was in my favor. John is very well respected in the Atlantic County municipal courts, and after talking to the prosecutor all counts were dropped and my name was cleared.

The whole process took about a month and a half and I was a nervous wreck the entire time. John was very quick to answer any and all of my question, no matter how redundant they became. He was very honest and made the process as smooth and painless as it possibly could have been. The recommendation from my family member did not do John Zarych justice; his compassion and his ability to litigate are far beyond any lawyer or professional that I have met. I highly recommend John Zarych for any legal needs that you may need."

- Anonymous
Client Testimonial

"I can highly recommend the Law Offices of John Zarych."

"I engaged them to assist a family member in some legal trouble and they came through for us. Also, I had a significant traffic matter that was a misunderstanding. Stefanie Zarych represented me and was able to get it everything dismissed. John and Stefanie Zarych made me feel comfortable, relaxed and confident. I know they had my best interests at heart. Therefore, I strongly recommend them to other people with serious criminal or traffic problems."

- Thelma
Client Testimonial

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Don’t Wait to Protect Yourself

A criminal charge presents an immediate and very serious problem that requires prompt attention. In addition, criminal cases are often won or lost based on what an attorney does in the first few days. In many times the first few days after the arrest makes-up a critical period.

Criminal defense lawyers who slow down the process while simultaneously seeking essential evidence before it can be lost or destroyed often make the difference for their clients.

Our Awards & Recognitions

DUI Defense criminal layers atlantic city nj

Don’t Go it Alone

Today may feel like one of the worst days of your life, but with the help of our criminal defense team and our almost five decades of experience representing clients, your rights can be protected. Our legal team is trained and ready to work for you to keep your future, freedoms, and liberty protected in the midst of a legal crisis.

Clients often say to us things such as, “This is all new to me. My family has never been through this process before. I don’t know how serious this is and I have so many questions.” This is a common response when one learns he or she is facing charges. Rest assured that nothing about the criminal justice process is “new” to us. In fact, guiding people through the legal system is what we do every day. There are no stupid questions. You may ask as many questions as you like.

The role of an attorney is to give you the information that you need to make important decisions about your case. Your attorney will recommend a course of action, but ultimately you have the right to make the most crucial decisions in your case such as whether to demand a trial. But when we are talking about your case, aren’t we really talking about your life? Yes, and you want your legal matter to be handled in such a way that it has a minimal negative impact on your life. We understand that questions about your life are important and deserve time and attention. You will receive that from our criminal defense law firm.

Call an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Atlantic City

Being arrested in Atlantic County may happen differently depending upon your circumstances. In some cases, a defendant is arrested by the police on-sight with no warrant. This kind of arrest typically happens very shortly after the crime was committed. Police usually see the defendant commit the crime or witness the defendant attempting to flee the scene. Police can arrest you on sight this way if they have probable cause to connect you to the crime and believe you to be dangerous. These are situations where it would be unwise to wait for an arrest warrant because the suspect could be long gone and hurt someone else.

You could also be arrested sometime after the crime was committed under an arrest warrant. Police do not always have a suspect right away and a criminal investigation is required to uncover evidence and find any people of interest. If the police believe you are responsible for the crime and have sufficient evidence and probable cause showing such, they can request an arrest warrant from a judge or magistrate. Once they have the warrant, they can show up at your home, work, or anywhere else to arrest you.

If your arrest is unlawful or unsupported by probable cause and evidence, you may be able to challenge the arrest and the underlying criminal charges. Contact our Atlantic County criminal defense attorneys for more information.

Common Criminal Charges and Penalties in Atlantic County

Criminal charges in Atlantic County are divided into two broad categories of offenses. You can be charged with a disorderly persons offense or a crime. Crimes tend to be more serious offenses and carry harsher punishments.

A crime is an offense that can be punished by incarceration of potentially more than a year. Crimes are subdivided into crimes of the fourth, third, second, and first degree. Crimes of the first degree are extremely serious and carry very long prison sentences of at least 10 years but less than 20 years. Second-degree crimes carry penalties of a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 10 years in prison. Third-degree crimes carry penalties of at least 3 years but not more than 10 years. Fourth-degree crimes are the least serious and may be penalized by a maximum prison term of 18 months.

Lesser charges are referred to as disorderly persons offenses. Such offenses are generally minor violations that are more often punished by fines rather than a prison term. Although, some disorderly persons offenses can be penalized by a prison term of up to 6 months. Regardless of the charges you face, you should reach out to our Atlantic County criminal defense lawyers for assistance.

Fighting Charges with an Atlantic County Criminal Defense Attorney

There are many different ways you can fight your criminal charges. One option is going to trial. A defendant facing charges involving crimes in Atlantic County is guaranteed a jury trial if they so choose. However, defendants dealing with disorderly persons offenses do not have such a right as their charges are technically not crimes under New Jersey law. At trial, we can present evidence demonstrating that you are not guilty, and hopefully, we can get an acquittal.

Another approach would be to acknowledge that you did in fact commit the crime; however, your actions were a result of circumstances that absolve you of responsibility. For example, self-defense or duress are defenses in which you admit you committed the crime, but you may have had no other choice.

It is important to keep track of the police investigation into your case and the actions of law enforcement and the prosecutor. If they do something to break the rules or infringe on your rights, we can use that as a defense. Invalid warrants and constitutional violations, for example, can strengthen our case or even result in your charges being dismissed. Our skilled Atlantic County criminal defense lawyers can analyze your case and determine what defense strategy will be the most effective.

How Can I Avoid a Criminal Trial in Atlantic County?

Not every case will end in a trial. Sometimes, law enforcement realizes their investigation led to the wrong suspect and they may simply drop your charges. However, this is not typical and happens more often on TV than in real life. More commonly, defendants avoid trial by accepting a plea deal from prosecutors.

A plea deal, sometimes called a plea bargain or a plea agreement, is an offer from the prosecutor to reduce the defendant’s charges in exchange for a guilty plea. This way, both parties avoid a costly and time-consuming trial, the prosecution secures a conviction, and the defendant serves a smaller sentence. Plea agreements are not required and may be negotiated. Our Atlantic County criminal defense lawyers can help you fight your charges at trial or negotiate the best plea deal for your case.

Potential Dangers of Talking to the Police Without a Lawyer After Your Arrest in Atlantic County

You should not wait to seek assistance from our criminal defense attorneys after being arrested in Atlantic County. There are multiple ways that a defendant’s interests can be harmed by speaking to the police without legal representation present.

Risk of Self-Incrimination

Engaging in conversations with the police without legal representation exposes individuals to the danger of self-incrimination. Statements made without the guidance of a lawyer may be misconstrued or manipulated, potentially harming the individual’s defense.

Vulnerability to Coercive Tactics

The absence of legal representation also leaves individuals susceptible to coercive tactics employed by the police during interrogations. Without a lawyer present, there may be a heightened risk of involuntary or uninformed statements, undermining the individual’s ability to mount a robust defense.

Risk of Inconsistent Statements

Additionally, speaking to the police without a lawyer may lead to unintentional inconsistencies in statements. Without legal guidance, individuals may provide different accounts of events over time. These inconsistencies could be used against them to cast doubt on their credibility during legal proceedings.

Misinterpretation of Intent

In the absence of legal representation, there is a heightened risk of the police misinterpreting an individual’s intentions or motives behind certain statements. Fortunately, our team can help clarify and contextualize statements to prevent misunderstandings that may negatively impact a defendant’s case.

Complexity of the Legal System

Finally, navigating the intricacies of the legal system without guidance from our team can be highly complicated. Our legal professionals can play a crucial role in interpreting legal language, advising on the implications of statements, and ensuring that an individual’s rights are protected throughout the process of building their defense.

Common Areas Where People Are Arrested in Atlantic County, NJ

There are various types of criminal charges that you can face in New Jersey. In Atlantic County, there are certain areas where specific types of arrests are more common.

Boardwalk and Entertainment District

In the lively Boardwalk and Entertainment Districts of Ventnor City and Margate City in Atlantic County, NJ, arrests frequently involve disorderly conduct, public intoxication, and disturbances. These areas boast vibrant nightlife and numerous entertainment venues, drawing large crowds. The combination of diverse events and celebrations often leads to a higher incidence of altercations, contributing to arrests for offenses related to public disturbances. Local law enforcement remains vigilant in maintaining order to ensure the safety of both residents and tourists in these bustling coastal communities.

Casinos and Gaming Establishments

Within Atlantic County, Pleasantville and Egg Harbor Township are notable for their concentration of casinos and gaming establishments. Common arrests in these areas often pertain to gambling-related offenses, such as trespassing, cheating and fraudulent activities. Law enforcement focuses on upholding the integrity of gaming operations, leading to arrests for activities that compromise the fairness and legality of gambling. Additionally, the close proximity of people in crowded casino environments can contribute to offenses like theft and fraud, resulting in increased arrests.

Drug-Related Offenses

Galloway Township, a residential area in Atlantic County, frequently sees arrests related to drug offenses, including possession and distribution. The township’s location, with its proximity to major transportation routes, can make it a hub for drug trafficking. Law enforcement in Galloway Township is actively engaged in combating the illegal drug trade, leading to arrests in residential neighborhoods where such activities may be discreetly conducted.

Traffic Violations on Major Highways

Hamilton Township, situated along the major highways in Atlantic County, including the Atlantic City Expressway, is a hotspot for arrests related to traffic violations. Law enforcement in Hamilton Township diligently monitors these routes for speeding, reckless driving, and driving under the influence. The high volume of traffic, particularly during peak tourism seasons, contributes to a greater likelihood of individuals committing traffic offenses and being arrested.

Having Your Criminal Record Expunged in Atlantic County, NJ

Expungement is a legal process that allows individuals with certain criminal convictions to petition the court to have their records sealed from public view. If approved, the court issues an expungement order, directing relevant agencies to update or remove records related to the specified convictions. The following is an outline of the general process for having your record expunged in Atlantic County:

Determining Eligibility

Before initiating the expungement process in New Jersey, it is essential to determine eligibility. Certain offenses, such as serious crimes or those involving violence, are typically not eligible for expungement. Consulting with legal representation is crucial at this stage to assess eligibility based on the specific circumstances of the case.

Filing a Petition for Expungement

The first step in the expungement process involves filing a formal petition with the court. This petition outlines details such as the individual’s personal information, details of the offense, and any related court dispositions. Thankfully, our legal professionals can assist in preparing and submitting a petition to the Superior Court in the county where the conviction occurred.

Notifying Relevant Agencies

After filing the petition, our attorneys will then notify relevant agencies, including law enforcement, the prosecutor’s office, and other entities involved in the case. These agencies have the opportunity to object to the expungement if they believe it is not in the public interest.

Court Review and Hearing

The court will review the expungement petition and may schedule a hearing to consider the request. During the hearing, the individual seeking expungement, represented by their criminal defense lawyer, may present arguments supporting the request. The court will evaluate factors such as the nature of the offense, the individual’s criminal history, and their rehabilitation efforts.

Issuance of Expungement Order

If the court approves the expungement, an expungement order will be issued. This order directs relevant agencies to expunge the records related to the conviction. It is important to note that the expungement process does not erase all records, but rather seals them from public view.

Updating Record Repositories

Following the issuance of the expungement order, our legal team will work with record repositories, such as the New Jersey State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to update and remove the specified records from their databases.

Notification to Agencies and Entities

Lastly, our lawyers can ensure that all relevant agencies and entities are informed of the expungement to facilitate the removal of records from their databases. This step is crucial to fully realize the benefits of expungement and ensure a clean slate for the individual.