Felony Defense Attorney Serving Hamilton Township
Both Founding Partners Review Every Serious Criminal Case
New Jersey generally uses the term indictable offenses for felony-level charges. We defend people facing these serious allegations in Mercer County Superior Court, where the facts, degree of the charge, and procedural history can shape the available defense options.
The Law Office of Zapicchi & Liller, LLP has been practicing law since 2010. Attorneys at the firm work together on every file, reviewing the evidence before developing a strategy. A charge is an allegation, not a finding of guilt, so we recommend seeking legal guidance before the first court appearance when possible.
Call (609) 400-4404 to speak with our criminal defense attorneys serving Hamilton Township about the allegation, upcoming court dates, and your next steps.
How New Jersey Indictable Offense Cases Proceed
The New Jersey Superior Court Criminal Division manages these cases from arrest through resolution. Early proceedings may address pretrial release, including whether and under what conditions someone remains out of custody, as well as discovery, court scheduling, and arraignment.
If a case isn’t dismissed, diverted, or downgraded, the prosecutor may present evidence to a grand jury. The grand jury decides whether there is a sufficient basis to issue an indictment and allow the prosecution to continue. An indictment isn’t a conviction, and the State must still prove the charge.
Important stages may include:
- Reviewing the complaint, release paperwork, and court-imposed conditions.
- Grand jury consideration and the filing of an indictment.
- Arraignment, discovery review, and pretrial conferences.
- Motion practice, plea negotiations, or preparation for a jury trial.
Indictable Charges We Defend
The classification and possible consequences of a charge depend on the statute, its degree, the alleged conduct, any prior record, and other case-specific facts. Allegations arising from the same incident may require different defenses because each offense has distinct elements the State must prove.
Our criminal defense practice includes allegations involving:
- Assault and aggravated assault.
- Arson, burglary, theft, and receiving or handling stolen property.
- Weapon possession and other alleged violent crimes.
- Drug possession, distribution, and related drug charges.
- Identity theft, insurance fraud, and other white-collar crimes.
- Cyber crimes and obstruction of justice.
We handle matters ranging from serious crimes in Mercer County Superior Court to disorderly persons offenses in Municipal Court. Our first step is to determine what has actually been charged rather than assume related allegations require the same response.
Building a Defense Around the Evidence
We don’t select a strategy before examining the facts. We'll review the available evidence, identify unresolved issues, and discuss the possible paths with the client.
Our review can address several decision points:
- The State’s evidence: We examine the materials provided through discovery and compare them with the elements prosecutors must prove.
- Searches and seizures: We consider whether evidence was obtained lawfully and whether a motion to suppress may be appropriate. This motion asks the court to exclude evidence obtained in violation of legal protections.
- Resolution options: Depending on the facts and governing law, we may assess diversion, charge negotiations, or plea negotiations without assuming any option is available.
- Trial preparation: If a case proceeds toward trial, we prepare around the evidence, disputed facts, and applicable legal standards.
Direct Attorney Attention for Serious Criminal Charges
Clients work directly with attorneys who know their files rather than receiving a one-size-fits-all response. We give each person individual attention regardless of complexity, with both founding partners contributing to the review and strategy.
We provide prompt, professional service with attention to affordability. Mario has also been recognized as a Super Lawyers New Jersey Rising Stars honoree, a selection based on independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations.
Hamilton Township & Mercer County Superior Court
Hamilton Township is within Mercer County, whose Criminal Division is part of New Jersey Judiciary Vicinage 7. Serious charges are generally handled in Superior Court, although a case may first involve Municipal Court before being transferred, downgraded, or otherwise resolved. Because Municipal Court involvement doesn’t necessarily mean the allegation will remain there, we review the charging documents and procedural posture before explaining what may come next.
Get a Fact-Based Review Before Your Next Court Date
If you’ve been arrested, charged, contacted by investigators, or given a court date, contact us so Mario D. Zapicchi can review the situation. Have the complaint, summons, release paperwork, court notice, and other available documents nearby to make the initial discussion more productive.
A consultation doesn’t replace your obligation to attend court or follow existing release conditions. It can give you a clearer understanding of the allegation, the court process, and the defense options that may fit the facts.
Call (609) 400-4404 to discuss your criminal matter with The Law Office of Zapicchi & Liller, LLP.
Clients Who Came Back More Than Once
One reviewer noted this was their third matter with Mario. That's not luck, that's trust built case by case.
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We had a smooth, seamless experience purchasing our new home. Just over a month and we were in.Cathy M.
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Her calm, reassuring demeanor inspires complete confidence in a successful outcome.George B.
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Mario is hands-down the best attorney I have worked with. He demonstrated exceptional professionalism, deep legal knowledge, and genuine care for my situation.Vanessa G.
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Very professional, efficient, and aided the navigation in the sale of our home with excellence.Beacon D.
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They were all very responsive, professional, and so organized. Thank you for guiding us through what would have been a stressful process, but you all made it easy!Anet
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Mario is an excellent attorney. He makes you feel supported throughout the entire process.Karina G.
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Excellent lawyer, gets the job done.Alexis D.
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His professionalism, kindness, and willingness to go above and beyond truly stand out.Gideon a.
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I've got a few homes with these guys and I've never been disappointed.Matt C.
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They definitely looked out for our best interest during the purchase of our new home.Bruce T.
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Truly a life saver. If you're facing similar charges, call him and pay him — he's worth every penny!Daniel S.
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From the beginning, he was professional, knowledgeable, and made sure I understood what was happening with my case.adoran j.
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They are very knowledgeable and respectful of clients' needs.Moreno (.
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The support and guidance they provided was instrumental in our negotiations.Tymin C.
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They made what could have been a stressful process smooth and straightforward, kept me informed every step of the way.Vince F.
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Hiring Mario Zapicchi was the best decision I made. I am deeply grateful for his professionalism and dedication.Steven
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Professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate from start to finish.Aya D.
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