Tenacious Toms River Lawyer Seeks Fair Results for the Criminally Accused

New Jersey attorney provides aggressive criminal defense representation

Criminal defendants have rights, and an experienced defense attorney can protect and assert them. At The Law Office of Michel A. Paulhus, LLC in Toms River, I represent clients throughout Southern and Central New Jersey in criminal defense cases and believe every accused individual deserves effective legal counsel. Having worked in matters related to the criminal justice system since 1990, I can handle even the most complex and serious of cases. Whether you were accused of arson, interrogated for drug manufacturing or charged with vehicular homicide, I will outline the key issues and explain which defenses could help your case.

What are common drug charges in New Jersey?

Controlled substances are highly regulated under state and federal law. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, and some of the charges they most commonly file include:

  • Drug possession — To possess or have under one’s control a controlled substance
  • Drug paraphernalia — To possess anything used to store, grow, make or use a controlled substance
  • Drug distribution — To distribute or dispense or intend to distribute or dispense a controlled substance
  • Drug manufacturing — To make or intend to make a controlled substance

Developing a detailed legal strategy is key to combating drug charges, and I will look at all the evidence to determine the best approach in your case.

How New Jersey law distinguishes simple and aggravated arson

Arson is an indictable offense under New Jersey law, and a conviction can result in years in prison, as well as a heavy fine. Simple arson involves starting a fire which endangers another person or purposely setting a fire to destroy a building where no one is endangered. Aggravated arson, on the other hand, involves setting a fire with the intention to injure or kill another person, or to destroy a building or forest that recklessly endangers someone. Both of these charges, upon conviction, could result in years in prison and hefty fines, so getting legal advice is essential in these cases. I will strongly challenge these allegations.

What are the potential penalties for an assault conviction?

Simple assault is a disorderly persons offense and can result in up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Aggravated assault and assault by auto can be charged as indictable offenses from the second to fourth degrees and can bring 10 years in prison and a $150,000 fine. With stakes like these, you cannot take chances, and I am adept at overcoming these charges.

What qualifies as vehicular homicide?

Vehicular homicide occurs when a driver’s reckless actions cause the death of another person. Recklessness is the key factor, which can include driving while intoxicated, excessively speeding or distracted driving. Thus, careless or negligent driving could form the basis of a defense or charge reduction. While this charge is serious, you do have options, and I will fight to secure a favorable outcome for you.

Contact a reputable New Jersey law firm today to schedule a free consultation

At The Law Office of Michel A. Paulhus, LLC in Toms River, I fight for individuals across Southern and Central New Jersey in many types of criminal defense cases. Please call 732-279-3811 or contact me online to schedule a free consultation.