When you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey, the stakes could not be higher. Your freedom, your reputation, and your future are all on the line. At the Law Office of Hector I. Rodriguez, we understand the weight of these moments because we have spent more than four decades navigating every side of the criminal justice system.
Experience From Both Sides of the Bench
Hector I. Rodriguez has served as both a municipal court prosecutor and a municipal court judge before dedicating his career to criminal defense. That means he has sat in the prosecutor's chair, deciding which charges to pursue and how to build a case. He has also sat on the bench, weighing evidence and rendering verdicts. This rare combination of experience gives him an unparalleled ability to anticipate the prosecution's strategy, identify weaknesses in their case, and craft a defense that speaks directly to what judges and juries need to hear.
Types of Criminal Cases We Handle
- •Drug Offenses: Possession, distribution, manufacturing, and prescription fraud charges under New Jersey's Controlled Dangerous Substances Act (N.J.S.A. 2C:35). Penalties range from probation to 20 years in state prison depending on the substance and quantity involved.
- •Assault and Violent Crimes: Simple assault, aggravated assault, domestic violence, weapons offenses, and robbery. New Jersey treats violent offenses seriously, with mandatory minimum sentences for certain charges under the No Early Release Act (NERA).
- •Theft and Property Crimes: Shoplifting, burglary, fraud, identity theft, and embezzlement. Convictions carry not only jail time but also restitution obligations and permanent criminal records that affect employment and housing.
- •White Collar Crimes: Tax fraud, insurance fraud, money laundering, and corporate misconduct. These cases often involve complex financial evidence and extensive document review, areas where our experience is particularly valuable.
- •Disorderly Persons Offenses: While classified below indictable crimes, disorderly persons offenses in New Jersey still carry up to six months in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a permanent criminal record.
What Is at Stake in New Jersey
New Jersey classifies criminal offenses as either indictable crimes (first through fourth degree) or disorderly persons offenses. A first degree crime carries 10 to 20 years in state prison. A second degree crime carries 5 to 10 years. Even a fourth degree offense can result in up to 18 months of incarceration. Beyond prison time, a criminal conviction in New Jersey triggers collateral consequences: loss of professional licenses, immigration complications, difficulty finding employment, and restrictions on housing.
Our Approach to Your Defense
Every criminal case begins with a thorough investigation. We review police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and physical evidence. We challenge the legality of traffic stops, searches, and interrogations. We file motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights. When appropriate, we negotiate with prosecutors from a position of strength, leveraging our deep understanding of how they evaluate cases. When a case must go to trial, we prepare meticulously and advocate relentlessly.
Our boutique practice model means you work directly with Mr. Rodriguez throughout your case. You will never be handed off to a junior associate or paralegal. Every phone call is returned. Every question is answered. Every strategy is built around your specific circumstances.
Se Habla Español
We proudly serve New Jersey's Spanish speaking community. If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a crime, you can speak with us in your preferred language. Do not let a language barrier prevent you from exercising your rights.
Ready to Discuss Your Case?
Contact the Law Office of Hector I. Rodriguez for a free, confidential consultation. With 42+ years of experience as a former prosecutor and judge, we bring a perspective that few attorneys can match.