Criminal Defense

Criminal Legal Process and Your Rights

For most defendants and their families, facing the criminal justice system feels overwhelming. Whether you have been charged before or this is your first time, you want to know your rights, what to expect and how best to proceed.

Know your rights at every stage

From the moment you are arrested, through questioning and trial, you need a clear understanding of your rights. In many cases, the defense comes from misconduct or illegal actions by an officer, or from a procedural error that denied you due process. My role is to give you the information you need to assert your rights and to build your defense aggressively.

Stages of a criminal case in New Jersey

• Investigation: Whether you are a suspect or have already been arrested and charged, the police have been collecting evidence to use against you in court. Do not talk to the police without first consulting an attorney who can protect your rights.
• Arrest: Once the police believe they have enough evidence to charge you, they may search and arrest you. Booking also includes a search of your person and property, fingerprinting and mug shots.
• Bail: Depending on the charge, bail will either be set immediately or at a bail hearing.
• Pre-trial intervention: From indictment through plea negotiations, arraignment and bail reduction motions, we take every necessary step to protect your rights before a trial date is set. After those pre-trial steps, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
• Trial and sentencing: At trial, the prosecution and the defense each present their evidence. We gather what is needed, including witness statements, analysis of those statements and expert support, and organize the evidence strategically in your favor. If the charges are not dismissed, we are prepared to fight at sentencing to reduce the penalties.

Do not talk to the police without consulting an attorney who can protect your rights. You can only make a well-informed decision about how to proceed after discussing your case with an experienced attorney. I represent clients who have received a summons or been arrested on a wide variety of criminal charges throughout New Jersey, including assault and threat crimes, theft crimes, drug possession and juvenile offenses.

The Law Offices of Raymond A. Raya, Esq.
Monmouth County Lawyer
Traffic · DUI/DWI · Criminal Defense · Municipal