New Jersey Military Criminal Lawyers

New Jersey Military Criminal Lawyers

If you are an active duty servicemember or veteran facing criminal charges in New Jersey, you need an experienced military criminal defense lawyer on your side. The military justice system is complex and unique – having a lawyer who understands it is critical.

Military criminal lawyers in New Jersey have specialized knowledge to help servicemembers navigate the military justice process. They also know how to advocate for alternatives to conviction and incarceration through programs like veterans treatment court.

Understanding the Military Justice System

Every branch of the military has its own criminal justice system outside of civilian courts. If you are charged with a crime by military authorities in New Jersey, you will face prosecution under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

The UCMJ covers many of the same crimes as civilian law, including assault, theft, drug offenses, DUI, and more. There are also military-specific crimes like desertion, insubordination, and conduct unbecoming of an officer.

Your case will proceed through the military justice system – not civilian criminal court. This means dealing with procedures and rules specific to the military. An experienced military lawyer knows the ins-and-outs of courts-martial and non-judicial punishment under the UCMJ.

Avoiding Convictions and Incarceration

The consequences of a military conviction in New Jersey can be severe. It can lead to incarceration in a military prison, punitive discharge, demotion, loss of benefits, and impact future civilian employment.

An adept New Jersey military criminal lawyer will fight to avoid these outcomes. They may negotiate with military prosecutors for pretrial diversion programs or argue for sentences that allow you to remain in service.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

For veterans, they may advocate for participation in veterans treatment court. This program provides rehabilitation services and potential dismissal of charges upon completion.

Protecting Your Military Career

Your military lawyer’s top priority is protecting your career and benefits. Any criminal conviction can jeopardize your military status. Even an accusation or investigation on your record can stall promotions or specialty training.

Your lawyer will work to minimize the impact to your military career. This may involve negotiating to keep charges off your permanent record or limiting punishments like rank reduction or pay forfeiture.

Understanding Military Culture

Military criminal lawyers have inside knowledge of military culture, organization, and procedures. They understand how charges can impact your specific service branch and military occupational specialty.

Their experience with courts-martial and military corrections also helps them advocate more effectively. Unlike civilian lawyers, they know how to work within the military justice system for the best outcome.

Common Military Crimes in New Jersey

Some of the most common military offenses charged in New Jersey include:

• Drug crimes – possession, use, distribution
• Sexual assault, harassment
• Domestic violence, child abuse
• DUI, drunk and disorderly conduct
• Absent without leave (AWOL)
• Disobeying orders, insubordination
• Larceny, theft of military property

A military lawyer can build strategic defenses against these charges using their expertise in military law and procedure.

Finding the Right Military Lawyer in New Jersey

When looking for a New Jersey military criminal defense lawyer, seek someone with specific experience representing servicemembers. Ask about their knowledge of the UCMJ, New Jersey military bases, pretrial negotiations, and sentencing.

Ideally, they should have a military background themselves. Former JAG officers and military defense counsel bring invaluable perspective. Check client reviews and ask for case results as well.

Trust an experienced New Jersey military lawyer to protect your rights and provide an aggressive defense. They have the skills to secure the best possible outcome, allowing you to move forward in your military service.