Criminal charges are stressful, and how your case turns out often depends on the lawyer standing beside you. William Fay, Esq., a former Deputy Attorney General with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, has spent years on both sides of the courtroom. This gives him a unique advantage as a defense attorney.
A native New Jersey resident, Mr. Fay is well-versed in the local court system and community. Unlike many other firms, when you work with him, you’ll communicate directly by phone and have regular access to your attorney. He is results-driven and client-focused, determined to get the best possible outcome for each client. Clients appreciate his aggressive defense in the courtroom and compassionate, reliable support outside of court.
Call our firm today for a free phone or in-person consultation to discuss your case with an experienced Manchester Township criminal defense attorney.
Why Hire William Fay for Your Manchester Township Criminal Defense Matters?
Experience matters when your future is at stake. Mr. Fay’s years as a Deputy Attorney General gave him firsthand insight into how prosecutors investigate, charge, and try criminal cases in New Jersey. Now, he leverages that insight for your defense.
As your Manchester Township criminal lawyer, he’ll use that knowledge to anticipate the prosecution’s next move and find the weaknesses in their case. He knows how the prosecution’s evidence can be challenged, because he used to rely on those same tools.
When you hire Mr. Fay, you’re getting a professional, hands-on advocate who takes the time to understand your unique circumstances. He doesn’t delegate your defense to a junior lawyer or pass off communication to a legal assistant. Instead, you’ll work directly with him from intake through trial.
His approach is straightforward: build trust through open communication, then investigate your case and prepare thoroughly for negotiation or trial. That’s how he’s earned his reputation as a trusted Manchester Township criminal defense attorney, and why his clients frequently recommend him to their friends and family.
Reach out today for your free, fully confidential case review.
Why Do You Need a Lawyer When Facing Criminal Charges?
New Jersey’s local courts have specific procedures that can be intimidating without legal guidance. Working with a criminal defense lawyer means you’ll have someone who knows the system and how to navigate it, all while fighting for the best possible outcome.
Unfortunately, police and prosecutors aren’t on your side. They’re focused on building a case against you, not protecting your rights. A defense lawyer like Mr. Fay helps protect you from unlawful searches, coerced statements, and procedural errors that could lead to devastating results.
Without strong, experienced legal representation, you could miss opportunities to get your charges reduced or dismissed. You may also face harsher penalties if you accept a plea deal that isn’t in your best interest. Mr. Fay will explain every option and the risks involved so that you can make informed decisions at every stage of your case.
What Types of Criminal Cases Does William Fay Handle?
Mr. Fay handles a wide range of criminal cases in Manchester Township and throughout Ocean County. Whether you’re accused of assault, a drug crime, or a weapons offense, he applies his former prosecutorial insight to craft a strategic defense. Some of the most common types of criminal cases he handles include the following:
- Assault and Threat Offenses – Charges for assault and related offenses can range from simple assault to terroristic threats and harassment. The penalties depend on the severity of the injury and the intent.
- Drug Offenses – Drug cases in Manchester Township can involve possession, distribution, or manufacturing controlled dangerous substances. Consequences depend on the type and quantity of the substance, as well as your alleged intent.
- DWI and DUI Offenses – Driving while intoxicated is technically a traffic offense. However, even a first offense carries serious penalties. Without a lawyer, you could face license suspension, fines, ignition interlock installation, and potential jail time.
- Domestic Violence – Domestic violence allegations can lead to both criminal charges and civil restraining orders. These cases often involve sensitive personal situations that quickly escalate out of control. Mr. Fay’s compassionate approach helps clients navigate these emotional circumstances while protecting their legal rights.
- Juvenile Offenses – Juvenile cases are handled differently from adult criminal matters, with an emphasis on rehabilitation over punishment. However, even juvenile cases can be heard in adult court, depending on the specific charges and circumstances. Fay works closely with families to protect their child’s future. He works to keep the case within the juvenile system and avoid long-term consequences whenever possible.
- Sexual Offenses – Sex-related charges carry some of the most serious penalties in New Jersey. Crimes like sexual assault, criminal sexual contact, and endangering the welfare of a child can result in lengthy prison sentences and mandatory registration under Megan’s Law. Because these cases are particularly high-stakes, Mr. Fay will fight to protect your reputation as well as your record.
- Theft and Fraud Offenses – Theft-related charges include shoplifting, theft by deception, and credit card fraud. The value of the property involved often determines whether the charge is a disorderly persons offense or an indictable crime.
- Weapons Offenses – Weapons offenses include unlawful possession of a firearm, possession for an unlawful purpose, and illegal transportation of a weapon. These cases often hinge on search and seizure issues, as well as whether the weapon was legally owned or registered.
- Expungements of Criminal Records – A prior arrest or conviction doesn’t have to define your future. In fact, many criminal records can be expunged after completing your sentence and a waiting period. Mr. Fay helps clients determine their eligibility for expungement and prepares petitions to clear their records.
- Bail Motions: When you’re arrested, most people want to be released to await trial. Mr. Fay files motions for pretrial release to argue that you can safely return to the community under reasonable conditions.
- Violations of Probation or Parole – Violating your probation or parole conditions can result in jail time or reinstating your suspended sentence. Mr. Fay advocates for alternatives to incarceration, such as reinstatement or modification of terms.
- Restraining Order Hearings – Restraining orders often arise from domestic violence complaints. Both sides have the opportunity to present evidence at a final restraining order (FRO) hearing.
If you’re unsure about the charges you’re facing or whether Mr. Fay can assist you, contact him today for a complimentary, fully confidential consultation. He can explain your charges, the potential outcomes, and the best defense strategies for your unique case.
What Are Potential Legal Defenses to Charges You Are Facing?
The best defense is tailored to the specific facts of your case. A skilled defense attorney can review the prosecution’s evidence, independently investigate, and find the most effective defenses possible. However, some common defenses Mr. Fay uses include the following:
- Lack of probable cause for arrest or search
- Miranda rights violations
- Mistaken identity
- Self-defense or defense of others
- Entrapment
- Insufficient evidence
Mr. Fay’s methodical review of police reports, forensic evidence, and the credibility of witnesses often uncovers facts that make the difference between conviction and dismissal, or reduced penalties.
What Are the Degrees of Crimes in New Jersey?
New Jersey classifies felonies into the following four degrees, which are called “indictable offenses”:
- First-degree crimes include offenses such as aggravated sexual assault or armed robbery. They carry 10 to 20 years in state prison.
- Second-degree crimes include burglary or certain drug distribution charges, with penalties of five to 10 years in prison.
- Third-degree crimes include thefts over $500 but under $75,000, punishable by three to five years.
- Fourth-degree crimes include certain weapons offenses, punishable by up to 18 months.
Disorderly persons offenses and petty disorderly persons offenses are what other states call misdemeanors. These cases are heard in municipal court and carry potential jail time of up to one year.
When you work with Mr. Fay, he’ll explain the exact charges against you and their degree. He’ll also explain the penalties you face, then evaluate all available strategies to reduce the consequences and keep your record clean.
What Steps Should You Take If You Have Been Arrested?
If police arrest or question you, what you do next can significantly impact your case. However, you can also protect your rights and preserve your defense options. Stay calm, be polite, and adhere to the following steps:
- Use Your Right to Remain Silent – Anything you say can be used against you later, so limit your communications to providing basic biographical information to law enforcement.
- Ask for a Lawyer Immediately – Don’t answer questions from the police until you’ve spoken with Mr. Fay. Early involvement gives him the best chance to protect your rights and preserve evidence.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case with Anyone Except Your Attorney – Conversations with friends or online posts can harm your defense, even if you think it’s innocent or you’re clearing up a misunderstanding.
- Write Down Everything You Remember as Soon as Possible – Details like names, times, and witness information can be valuable as Mr. Fay investigates your case.
Contact a Manchester Township Criminal Defense Attorney Today
When you’re charged with a crime, you need an experienced advocate who knows the local courts and understands how prosecutors think. William Fay, Esq., combines his years of prosecutorial experience with compassion and professionalism.
Discover how Mr. Fay, a reputable Manchester Township criminal defense lawyer, can put his years of experience to work for you. Contact him today for a free, no-obligation consultation by phone or in person.