Trusted Vineland Attorneys Providing Strong Defense Against Criminal Charges

Around 365,000 people faced charges in New Jersey between 2017 and 2022. However, less than half of those defendants were found guilty. If you have been charged with a crime, the attorney you choose is critical. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney who is committed to protecting your freedom, your record and your rights.

With over 150 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys bring a wealth of knowledge to Vineland and its surrounding communities. Testa Heck Testa & White, P.A., has strong ties to the local community, as well as a legacy of distinguished legal service. Our attorneys have served as prosecutors, judges and community leaders. One of the firm’s founders is a certified criminal trial attorney by the New Jersey Supreme Court.

When your future is on the line, turn to a trusted and established legal resource. Get the defense you need by calling 856-899-5327 or by sending a message here.

In-Depth Experience In A Range Of Criminal Defense Cases

At Testa Heck Testa & White, P.A., we defend adults and juveniles in Vineland and throughout New Jersey. We have experience defending clients in state and federal courts. Our attorneys defend clients in cases ranging from misdemeanor offenses to felony charges, including:

• DWI
• Drug crimes
• Violent crimes
• Sex crimes
• Conspiracy
• White collar crimes
• Corruption
• Robbery and burglary
• Theft offenses
• Municipal court cases
• Juvenile defense
• Weapons offenses

We also assist clients with bail hearings, expungements, probation violations and other significant criminal law matters such as weapons offenses. The United States grants people the right to bear arms. When the police charge you for illegal gun possession, it can be incredibly frustrating. As a gun owner, you may be facing difficult accusations. From licensing to proper documentation and safety, we can fight for your rights and make sure your concerns are adequately represented.

Get The Zealous Defense You Deserve

Our defense lawyers work tenaciously to hold the prosecution to its burden of proof. You are innocent until proven guilty. We believe strongly that every person has a right to a zealous defense.

Let us put our experience and knowledge of local courts, prosecutors and the criminal justice system to work for you. We carefully scrutinize the prosecution’s case, including police conduct and procedures that led to the arrest of our clients. We work hard to identify defenses that may be used to the advantage of our clients.

Know Your Rights In The New Jersey Criminal Justice System

If authorities arrest you and you are facing charges, it’s crucial that you are aware of your rights. This includes your right to:

• Call your attorney and have an attorney represent you in court
• Not be detained for more than 48 hours without a hearing
• Know the nature and cause of the accusations against you
• Remain silent to avoid self-incrimination
• Not let anyone in your home without a warrant
• Have a fair trial by an impartial jury

Minors facing charges also have additional rights. Police cannot question them without a parent or a guardian present. If detained, they must be in a facility separate from adults. Juvenile proceedings must also be confidential to protect the minor’s privacy.

Protecting your rights is our priority. Our attorneys will ensure that you receive fair treatment throughout the legal process.

Board-Certified Criminal Defense Attorney

Our senior partner, Michael L. Testa, is board-certified in criminal law by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. He is highly regarded in the legal community and has been listed for inclusion numerous times in the New Jersey Super Lawyers list. He is AV Preeminent peer-review rated* through Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating for legal ability and ethics.

Answers To Commonly Asked Questions

If you or your loved one is facing criminal charges, it can be a stressful and overwhelming time. Many people are unsure about what to do and what their rights are. Some of the legal processes can be confusing as well. However, at Testa Heck Testa & White, P.A., we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge. Below, we answer some of the frequently asked questions that we receive in our cases.

Can police search my home without a warrant in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, police typically need a warrant to search your home. The Fourth Amendment protects you against unreasonable searches and seizures. However, they can conduct a search without a warrant if:

• You allow police to search your home
• There is an emergency, such as when there is a risk of harm, evidence destruction or a suspect escaping
• They can lawfully see evidence in plain view
• They have just lawfully arrested someone, and they need to search the immediate area for weapons or evidence

Take note that these exceptions can be complicated and depend on a variety of factors. If you believe police violated your rights by entering and searching your home, consulting with an attorney is important.

What do I do if the police request a blood, breath or urine test?

New Jersey follows implied consent rules. This means that, by obtaining a driver’s license, you have given implied consent to submit to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing to take the test can result in penalties, including license suspension. Consider complying with the test to avoid them.

Make a note of the details of your interaction with the police. This includes the time, place and any statements made. This information can be valuable if you need to contest the charges later. More importantly, call one of our attorneys after the incident. We can help you understand your rights and options.

Do I need to pay bail for myself or a loved one?

It depends on the specifics of the case. New Jersey’s bail reform system focuses on assessing the risk of a defendant rather than relying solely on cash bail. This means that in many cases, a person may be released on their own recognizance or with certain conditions, without the need for cash bail. However, the court does use a risk assessment tool to evaluate whether a defendant poses a flight risk or a danger to the community.

Based on this assessment, the judge will decide on the conditions of release. In some situations, the court may still set bail if it believes it is necessary to ensure the defendant’s appearance in court or to protect public safety. We can discuss your options for securing release and any steps you can take to address the court’s concerns.

What is a plea deal, and should I take one?

A plea deal is when a defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge or one of several charges. In return, the prosecutor offers certain concessions, such as a reduced sentence or the dismissal of additional charges.

Deciding whether to take a plea deal is a significant decision and depends on several factors specific to your case. Our attorneys can help you understand the implications so that you can make an informed decision.

What is the difference between probation and parole in New Jersey?

Probation is a form of sentencing that permits you to remain in the community while being monitored rather than serving time in jail. The court sets conditions that you must follow, such as:

• Regularly meeting with a probation officer
• Maintaining employment
• Avoiding further legal trouble

Parole is when authorities release you from prison early to finish your sentence under supervision in the community. A parole board decides if you qualify for parole based on your behavior in prison and your ability to reintegrate into society.

Both probation and parole require you to follow specific rules. Breaking them can lead to additional penalties, including imprisonment. Understanding and adhering to the conditions of probation or parole is crucial. We can help ensure you meet all requirements.

Contact Us For The Strong Defense Representation You Need

From our office in Vineland, we handle criminal law matters for clients throughout South Jersey. To schedule a consultation with an experienced Vineland criminal defense attorney, call 856-899-5327. You may also contact us by email.

*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.