Burlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Are you facing criminal charges in Burlington County? Every decision you make now can affect your case and have a significant impact on your future. The legal process moves quickly, and the prosecution will likely have already begun building its case. You need and deserve guidance from a Burlington County criminal defense lawyer who understands how the system works and how to protect your rights.

That’s where William Fay, Esq., comes in. He has the experience and determination to handle your case with the focus it deserves, takes the time to understand your situation, and fights for just outcomes on your behalf. Contact Mr. Fay today to arrange your free, no-obligation initial consultation and learn how he can protect your rights.

Why Hire William Fay for Your Burlington County Criminal Defense Matters?

A lifelong New Jersey resident, Mr. Fay is known for his professionalism, determination, and compassion. He brings years of experience in criminal law to every case. Before opening his defense practice, Mr. Fay served as a Deputy Attorney General with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, where he prosecuted a wide range of criminal cases. That background allows him to assess each case from both sides and develop strategies that anticipate the prosecution’s moves.

Mr. Fay approaches every case with careful preparation and attention to detail. He examines the evidence, evaluates the facts, and crafts defenses aimed at protecting his client’s rights. Mr. Fay personally manages every step of the process from intake through trial, which means clients always deal directly with him, not junior associates or staff members. He provides all clients with his direct cell phone number to maintain open communication.

Reach out today for your free, fully confidential case review.

Why Do You Need a Lawyer When Facing Criminal Charges?

Criminal cases in New Jersey move quickly, leaving little room for mistakes. Hearings, procedural requirements, and deadlines come one after another, and missing even a single step can make a major difference in a case’s outcome. Prosecutors have the full force of the state behind them in every case and work hard to secure convictions.

A defense lawyer’s role is to level the playing field by challenging evidence, identifying errors, and holding the state accountable. That balance maintains fairness in the system and prevents one side from overpowering the other. Without a lawyer like Mr. Fay, who understands the process on your side, you risk walking into court at a severe disadvantage. Strong legal representation gives you a real chance to fight back.

What Types of Criminal Cases Does William Fay Handle?

Criminal charges can threaten your freedom, finances, and reputation. Mr. Fay knows this all too well, so he approaches every case with focused attention and a defense strategy tailored to the facts. Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a serious felony, his goal is to protect your rights, challenge weak evidence, and pursue the most favorable outcome possible.

Some of the most common cases he handles in Burling County include the following:

• Assault and Threat Offenses – New Jersey prosecutors take assault and threat charges seriously, whether they involve fights, domestic disputes, or alleged threats. Penalties for these offenses can include jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Defense strategies often focus on challenging the state’s version of events by questioning intent, witness credibility, and the accuracy of police reports.
• Drug Offenses – Drug crimes in Burlington County can range from simple possession to large-scale distribution. The outcome of a drug case often depends on how the police conducted a search or seizure. If an officer violated search-and-seizure rules, any evidence they collected could be inadmissible. A thorough review of police procedures and laboratory results can be crucial in building a strong defense.
• DWI and DUI Offenses – Driving under the influence cases often turn on technical details like breathalyzer calibration or how an officer handled a traffic stop. Even small mistakes can weaken the state’s case. Swift action after an arrest can protect the accused’s driving privileges and create opportunities to challenge evidence in court.
• Domestic Violence – Accusations of domestic violence can lead to both criminal charges and restraining orders. These cases move quickly and often center on conflicting statements. A defense attorney can gather evidence like text messages, call logs, and witness accounts to expose false claims or misunderstandings before they lead to lasting consequences.
• Juvenile Offenses – In juvenile offense cases, the court’s focus is on rehabilitation rather than punishment, but adjudication can still have serious consequences. A defense lawyer can work with parents to help the court see the child’s potential for change and work toward an outcome that keeps future opportunities open.
• Sexual Offenses – Allegations of sexual misconduct can bring harsh consequences and lasting stigma, even if the defendant never faces formal charges. These cases often hinge on conflicting accounts, digital messages, and forensic evidence. A careful review of the evidence can uncover inconsistencies and strengthen the defense before hearings or plea discussions begin.
• Theft and Fraud Offenses – Theft and fraud charges can involve accusations of stealing property, misusing funds, or falsifying records. Each case turns on the value of the items and proof of intent to defraud. A careful review of financial documents, receipts, and electronic data often reveals gaps or errors in the state’s evidence that can shape how this kind of case proceeds.
• Weapons Offenses – New Jersey’s weapons laws are strict, and violations can lead to mandatory minimum prison sentences under the Graves Act. Many weapons-related cases focus on whether the firearm was in the defendant’s lawful possession or discovered during an illegal search, which can affect the entire outcome.
• Expungements of Criminal Records – Expungement removes certain criminal records from public view, offering individuals a clean start after convictions or dismissals. Eligibility for expungement depends on the nature of the charge and the amount of time that has passed. After a successful expungement, the record will no longer appear in background checks, which makes employment and housing opportunities more accessible.
• Bail Motions – After an arrest, the court determines whether to hold a person in custody or release them. Attorneys prepare bail motions to present reasons for release, including steady employment, community ties, and a lack of flight risk. Strong evidence of stability can persuade judges to release defendants while their cases are pending.
• Violations of Probation or Parole – Alleged probation or parole violations can involve missed meetings, failed tests, or new arrests. The courts hold hearings to determine whether supervision should be continued or revoked. Evidence of compliance, steady employment, or treatment progress can persuade the court to keep a person under supervision rather than send them back to jail.
• Restraining Order Hearings – Restraining order hearings determine whether temporary orders should become permanent. Each side presents evidence, and the judge weighs factors like credibility and risk of harm. An attorney can present evidence like witness statements to help the court reach a fair decision about protection or dismissal.

What Are Potential Legal Defenses to Charges You Are Facing?

The right defense strategy depends on what happened, how the police handled the investigation, and what the prosecution can actually prove. A Burlington County criminal lawyer can evaluate each detail to determine which approach suits your case.

Possible defense strategies might focus on the following:

What Are the Degrees of Crimes in New Jersey?

New Jersey classifies the most serious offenses as “indictable crimes,” which are equivalent to what other states refer to as felonies. These crimes fall into the following four degrees based on their severity:

• A first-degree crime carries the harshest penalties, which can include long prison terms and heavy fines.
• Second-degree crimes involve serious but lesser offenses, often carrying shorter sentences.
• Third- and fourth-degree crimes are less serious but still carry serious consequences.

Offenses below these levels, such as disorderly persons or petty disorderly persons charges, are comparable to misdemeanors in other states. The degree of the charge determines both the possible penalties and how the court handles the case.

What Steps Should You Take If You Have Been Arrested?

An arrest can be shocking and stressful, but taking steps early in your case can make a major difference in how it develops. Here’s what you should do if you have been arrested on suspicion of a crime in Burlington County, New Jersey:

• Stay calm and polite when speaking with law enforcement.
• Inform the police that you intend to remain silent until you have legal counsel.
• Ask to speak with a Burlington County criminal defense attorney
• Avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your lawyer.
• Do not post about the arrest or investigation on social media.
• Follow all release conditions or bail requirements set by the court.
• Gather and save any documents, messages, or evidence related to your arrest.
• Attend every court appearance on time and follow your lawyer’s guidance.
• Maintain open communication with your lawyer throughout the process.

Contact a Burlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you face criminal charges in Burlington County, know that you don’t have to face them alone. Mr. Fay understands the importance of what is at stake and will work diligently to protect your rights from the outset. Discover how an aggressive, reliable defense lawyer can make a drastic difference in the outcome of your case. Contact Mr. Fay today to arrange your free, no-obligation initial consultation