Camden County Criminal Defense Attorneys

Have you been accused of a crime in Camden County, New Jersey? A conviction could affect your job, your reputation, and your future. When the stakes are this high, you need someone on your side who understands the process, knows the local courts, and can prepare a strong defense on your behalf.

William Fay, Esq., uses his background as a former State Deputy Attorney General to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and protect his clients’ rights. You can count on William Fay to provide clear guidance, direct communication, and strong advocacy throughout your case.

Contact him today to discuss your case in a free, confidential consultation session.

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

Mr. Fay is a born-and-bred New Jersey resident and an experienced criminal defense attorney who brings a unique perspective to every case he handles. As a former New Jersey Deputy Attorney General, he has investigated and prosecuted numerous criminal matters across the state. That means Mr. Fay has valuable insight into how prosecutors build cases — and how to find weaknesses and push back against them.

He knows that no two cases are alike, which is why he reviews every piece of evidence and examines each detail to prepare tailored defense strategies. Mr. Fay personally handles every case from start to finish; he never passes his clients off to junior attorneys or staff.

As a reputable criminal defense attorney, Mr. Fay prioritizes accessibility and responsiveness, which is why he provides each client with his direct cell phone number for their convenience. He is aggressive in the courtroom yet compassionate in person, always focused on protecting his clients’ rights and yielding the most favorable outcomes possible.

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

Why Do You Need a Lawyer When Facing Criminal Charges?

Criminal cases involve strict timelines, complex procedures, and potentially harsh consequences. The legal process moves forward quickly after an arrest, and a single misstep could damage your case beyond repair. Prosecutors have the full weight of the law behind them in the courtroom and work aggressively to secure convictions. Their advantage lies in their access to investigators and expert witnesses, as well as their broad legal authority.

A Camden County criminal defense attorney’s job is to hold the prosecution accountable during this process. They maintain the process’s fairness by scrutinizing evidence, challenging improper methods, and ensuring the state upholds the law. A good defense lawyer like Mr. Fay will fight to protect your rights, prepare a clear legal strategy, and keep you informed every step of the way.

What Types of Criminal Cases Does William Fay Handle?

Criminal charges in New Jersey can have serious consequences, but the right defense can make a measurable difference in the outcome of a case. Mr. Fay focuses on protecting his clients’ rights at every step, from initial court appearances through trials and post-conviction relief proceedings. He handles a wide range of criminal matters across Camden County and throughout the Garden State, including the following:

• Assault and Threat Offenses – Assault and threat cases in New Jersey often involve conflicting stories and limited evidence. Impulsive reactions during heated moments can lead to serious charges. A strong defense focuses on what actually happened, rather than assumptions based on limited information. An attorney can cross-examine witnesses and expose exaggerations to push for fair results.
• Drug Offenses – New Jersey treats drug offenses harshly, whether they involve simple possession or more serious charges like manufacturing. Drug defenses often turn on how police found the evidence and whether they followed proper procedures. A lawyer can challenge illegal searches or unreliable lab reports to weaken the prosecution’s case and seek reduced or dismissed charges.
• DWI and DUI Offenses – A DWI or DUI arrest can bring immediate consequences, including license suspension and fines. Officers must follow strict testing protocols after such arrests, and even minor mistakes can impact the case. The defense can review traffic stops, breathalyzer accuracy, and police conduct to poke holes in the state’s case. Careful scrutiny often determines whether a conviction stands or falls.
• Domestic Violence – Allegations of domestic violence often carry immediate legal consequences in New Jersey. Temporary restraining orders can separate families within hours. Defense strategies typically focus on gaps in the evidence, false claims, or misinterpretations of the events. A lawyer can present clear, factual accounts in court to protect their client’s reputation and future stability.
• Juvenile Offenses – Juvenile cases demand careful handling to protect the young person’s record and opportunities. The family court system prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment, but a negative outcome can still result in lasting harm. A juvenile defense attorney can argue for diversion programs, community service, or counseling to keep the focus on second chances.
• Sexual Offenses – Accusations of sexual misconduct carry life-changing consequences. In New Jersey, these cases often rely on one person’s word against another’s, so credibility is critical. The defense must carefully examine statements, physical evidence, and investigative methods since every detail counts when challenging the state’s version of events.
• Theft and Fraud Offenses – Charges involving theft, fraud, or embezzlement can threaten freedom and reputations. Many theft and fraud cases turn on intent, paperwork, and financial records. Defense attorneys often build their cases to show misunderstandings or a lack of intent to deceive. An early review of documents and electronic data can expose weak points in the prosecution’s arguments.
• Weapons Offenses – New Jersey’s weapons laws are among the strictest in the country. Even lawful gun owners from other states can face mandatory prison terms for violating these laws in New Jersey. Weapons crime defense strategies often center on whether the accused was in legal possession of the firearm or whether it was discovered through an unlawful search.
• Expungements of Criminal Records – Expunging (clearing) a criminal record in New Jersey can offer a fresh start by restoring access to employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Eligibility for expungement depends on the nature of the charge, the sentence, and how much time has passed.
• Bail Motions – It takes more than just filling out forms to secure release after an arrest. Judges review risk factors, prior history, and case strength before allowing a pretrial release. A persuasive defense supported by the facts can allow defendants to stay out of jail while awaiting trial.
• Violations of Probation or Parole – Even minor missteps during probation or parole can bring severe penalties. Individuals on probation or parole can be sent back to jail for missing meetings, technical violations, or new arrests. An attorney can present context and suggest corrective steps in these cases to persuade the court to retain supervision instead of imposing additional jail time.
• Restraining Order Hearings – Restraining order cases move quickly through New Jersey courts, and a temporary order can become permanent after just one hearing. A good defense requires thorough preparation, credible testimony, and solid evidence. A defense lawyer can challenge false statements or unsupported claims to argue against long-term restrictions.

What Are Potential Legal Defenses to Charges You Are Facing?

No two criminal cases are alike, so a strong defense strategy can vary depending on the specific facts, evidence, and charges involved. A Camden County criminal lawyer like Mr. Fay can review every detail to determine the most effective approach, which might include demonstrating the following:

What Are the Degrees of Crimes in New Jersey?

Most states call their most serious criminal offenses “felonies,” but New Jersey uses the term “indictable crimes” instead. These crimes are divided into the following four degrees:

• First-Degree Crimes – The most serious offenses. First-degree crimes often carry penalties of 10 to 20 years in prison. Examples include aggravated sexual assault, armed robbery, kidnapping, manslaughter, and murder.
• Second-Degree Crimes – These crimes are punishable by five to 10 years in prison. Examples include certain drug trafficking crimes, aggravated assault, sexual assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
• Third-Degree Crimes – Third-degree crimes carry penalties of three to five years in prison. Examples include simple assault, theft, fraud cases, and burglary.
• Fourth-Degree Crimes – Fourth-degree crimes are the lowest level of indictable crime. They are punishable by fines up to $10,000 and a maximum of 18 months in prison. Examples include harassment, resisting arrest, and forgery.

Less serious violations are classified as disorderly persons or petty disorderly persons offenses, which are equivalent to misdemeanors in other states. A reliable attorney can explain the degree of any charge against you, the potential sentencing, available defenses, and the long-term impact of a conviction.

What Steps Should You Take If You Have Been Arrested?

If you have been arrested in New Jersey, anything you do or don’t do in the hours or days that follow can have dramatic effects on how your case unfolds. You can take the following steps to protect your rights and strengthen your defense from the beginning:

• Stay calm and do not resist arrest.
• Politely inform officers that you intend to exercise your right to remain silent.
• Ask to speak with a lawyer immediately.
• Do not answer police questions without legal counsel present.
• Try to remember your arresting officer’s name and badge number.
• Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer.
• Do not consent to any searches without a warrant.
• Write down what happened before, during, and after your arrest.
• Gather contact information from any witnesses.
• Keep track of all court dates and paperwork.
• Follow all release conditions if you are out on bail.
• Contact a Camden County criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Contact a Camden County Criminal Defense Attorney

If you face criminal charges in Camden County or anywhere in New Jersey, take action now to protect your future. Contact William Fay, Esq., for a free initial consultation with a determined, professional attorney to learn how he can help you move forward. He will review your situation, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way.