Manalapan Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with a criminal offense, you likely have many questions about the charging documents and legal process. Hiring a Manalapan criminal defense Lawyer to advise you is an important decision that can greatly impact your future.

At Leifert & Leifert, we offer free case reviews. You can discuss your pending criminal charges with our experienced Attorneys who will answer your questions and guide you through the legal process.

What Is a Charging Document?

A charging document officially accuses a person of a criminal offense. In addition to stating the specific law the Defendant allegedly broke, the charging document includes the following:

• The Defendant’s name
• The statute they allegedly violated
• A concise statement of the crime
• The date and location of the alleged crime

The charging document also has the signature of either the Prosecutor or the Grand Jury Foreperson who officially swears to the alleged charges. The documents are brief and do not include evidence, witnesses, or police reports, but they clearly notify the Defendant of the criminal charges against them.

In criminal matters, the three main types of charging documents are information, an indictment, and a notice to appear/citation. At Leifert & Leifert, our knowledgeable criminal defense Attorneys in Manalapan can answer your questions about these documents.

How Do the Charging Documents Differ?

The State uses an information as the official document to charge a Defendant with a Felony or a Misdemeanor. The State Attorney’s office drafts and signs the information, which outlines the specific crimes the State alleges that the Defendant committed.

A Grand Jury issues an indictment for major Felony offenses. The Prosecutor will present their evidence to the Grand Jury, which will then determine if the Prosecutor has enough evidence to proceed with the alleged charges. If it determines there is probable cause, it will issue a formal indictment. The Grand Jury does not determine if the Defendant is innocent or guilty but decides if the Prosecutor has enough evidence to continue prosecuting the criminal charges.

Law Enforcement Officers use a notice to appear/citation for minor offenses such as traffic violations or non-violent misdemeanors. An Officer will provide a notice to appear/citation directly to the Defendant to instruct the Defendant to appear in Court on a specific date.

If Prosecutors have charged you with a criminal offense in Manalapan, Leifert & Leifert’s legal counsel skilled in criminal defense can advise you.

Discuss Your Charges With a Defense Attorney in Manalapan

Whether Prosecutors have charged you by way of an information, indictment, or notice to appear/citation, if you face criminal charges, you need to seek the guidance of a Manalapan criminal defense Lawyer.

At Leifert & Leifert, our Lawyers can review your charging documents and investigate your criminal matter. We have extensive experience working with Defendants facing a broad range of criminal charges, and we can get the best possible result for you. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and let us fight on your behalf.