Practice Areas

Our Legal Services

Welcome to our comprehensive legal services page. At our firm, we offer a wide range of legal representation in criminal defense, family and municipal law matters in all Federal Court and State Superior Court cases. We also provide representation on appeals of convictions and sentences, post- conviction relief (PCR), spousal and child support orders and child custody determinations. Clifford E Lazzaro, PC also regularly handles temporary restraining order (TRO) and final restraining order (FRO) hearings. Our lead attorney, Clifford E Lazzaro, is an experienced trial attorney practicing law over 30 years. From DUI cases to murder cases, from complex high net worth divorce cases to prenuptial agreements, Clifford E Lazzaro, PC is ready to assist and lead your case to a favorable outcome.

We represent clients from Atlantic County (Mays Landing and Atlantic City), Bergen County (Hackensack), Essex County (Newark), Hudson County (Jersey City), Hunterdon County (Flemington), Mercer County (Trenton), Middlesex County (New Brunswick), Monmouth County (Freehold), Morris County (Morristown), Ocean County (Toms River), Passaic County (Paterson), Somerset County (Somerset), Sussex County (Newton), Union County (Elizabeth).

From defending against serious criminal charges such as murder and robbery to navigating complex family disputes like divorce and custody battles, our lead attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro is here to provide strategic guidance and aggressive representation. Additionally, we handle appellate cases and provide representation in traffic court matters. Whatever your legal representation needs may be, we are committed to advocating fiercely on your behalf and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

Monmouth County, New Jersey Criminal Defense Trial Attorney Protecting Your Rights, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C.

If you are facing a federal or state criminal investigation or have been charged with a crime, having a strong advocate at your side from the start is critical. When you work with our lead attorney Clifford E. Lazzaro, you can trust that he will aggressively defend your rights and freedom through every step of the process. As a former assistant prosecutor and special deputy attorney general and through the years having defended many clients accused of crimes, lead attorney Clifford E. Lazzaro understands how important it is to approach each case with dedication and attention to detail. Whether you are facing DUI charges, domestic violence charges, drug charges, guns and weapons charges, sex crime charges, violent crime charges, theft charges, or homicide charges, Mr. Lazzaro will work hard to secure the best possible outcome.

Our firm has extensive experience with a proven track record of success in navigating complex legal landscapes, handling cases under the following areas:

• Murder, Aggravated Manslaughter, Manslaughter, Attempted Murder, Felony Murder, Death by Auto, Assault by Auto, Aggravated Assault, Robbery, Carjacking. All No Early Release Act (NERA) offenses.
• Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault, Criminal Sexual Contact. Megan’s Law offenses, NERA applicability and TIER Classification Hearings.
• Child Pornography including Distribution of Child Pornography, Possession of Child Pornography and Internet Crimes.
• Lengthy Narcotics investigations involving wiretaps for Drug offenses including Distribution of Controlled Dangerous Substances, Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substances, Leader of a Narcotics Network, Maintenance of a Controlled Dangerous Substance Production Facility, Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), Possession of a Weapon in furtherance of Drug Distribution.
• Weapons Offenses including Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose. Includes NERA offenses and Graves Act sentencing exposure.
• Domestic Violence and Restraining Order Hearings.
• Trials including Motions to Suppress Physical Evidence Seized in violation of the 4th Amendment, Motions to Suppress Wiretaps, Motions to Suppress Statements in violation of Miranda Rights, Motions to Suppress Suggestive Identifications based upon Police Misconduct, Motions to Dismiss Indictments.
• Sentencings and Appeals. Defending against discretionary and mandatory extended terms.
• Driving While Under the Influence (DUI)

Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Camden, Newark and Trenton, New Jersey 

Federal crimes are very serious offenses and carry harsh penalties. Because the stakes are so high, It is very important to retain a highly competent and experienced federal criminal attorney as soon as possible to strongly defend you against the charges imposed. Choosing the right federal criminal defense attorney is the difference between facing significant prison time and fines or walking free. New Jersey federal criminal defense attorney Clifford E. Lazzaro has extensive expertise in defending federal criminal cases. He carefully builds legal strategies and provides zealous defense counsel to individuals charged with federal crimes. 

Deportation Consequences if Convicted of Felony Offenses or Indictable Offenses in Federal or State Court in New Jersey or a DUI or Simple Assault in Municipal Court or a Final Restraining Order in Superior Court

If you are not a United States Citizen and are convicted of a felony offense in a United States District Court in New Jersey (Newark, Trenton or Camden) or are convicted of an indictable offense in the Superior Court of New Jersey or are found guilty of DUI or a simple assault in Municipal Court or if a Final restraining Order (FRO) is issued against you on a domestic violence case in the Superior Court of New Jersey, you may be deported from the United States and that is why it is very important to hire experienced and trusted legal counsel like Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. while the charges are pending. If you gained entry to the United States and want to remain in the United States and avoid possible deportation, it is important to have experienced counsel like Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. defend and represent you to avoid being convicted of any criminal offenses or having a FRO entered against you on a domestic violence case. Give Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. a call at (732) 866-1600 or email us at celesquire@msn.com.

Contact an Experienced Monmouth County, Middlesex County, Mercer County, Essex County, Bergen County, Hudson County, Union County, Somerset County, Atlantic County or Ocean County Criminal Defense Trial Attorney Attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C.

Monmouth County, New Jersey Divorce and Family Law Attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C.

If you need experienced legal representation for a divorce, child custody, or child support issue, contact the law firm of Clifford. E. Lazzaro P.C. Clifford E Lazzaro will provide the best possible legal representation for your family law needs.

When you turn to us for guidance, we listen to your concerns and work closely with you to understand your goals. Whether through mediation or litigation, we tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of your case. Our expertise covers a wide range of family law matters, including:

• Divorce and property division
• Pendente lite (temporary alimony) emergent support
• Grounds for divorce
• Divorce mediation
• Alimony in divorce
• Legal Separation
• Family law mediation
• High net worth divorce case
• Modifications to child support and custody orders
• Prenuptial agreements
• Post-nuptial agreements
• Post-divorce judgement issues
• Restraining orders and domestic

Accused of Domestic Violence

If you find yourself being accused of domestic violence and have been served with a temporary restraining order (TRO), Clifford E. Lazzaro has had numerous restraining orders dismissed at the final restraining order (FRO) hearing after trial. Mr. Lazzaro will sit down with you and carefully review the Temporary Restraining order (TRO) and prepare you for trial if the case cannot be resolved by way of dismissal or civil restraining agreement. Mr. Lazzaro will explain your rights and may even recommend that you file a cross-temporary restraining order against the other side if you were also a victim of domestic violence during the incident.

Contact an Experienced Monmouth County, Middlesex County, Mercer County, Essex County, Bergen County, Hudson County, Union County, Somerset County, Atlantic County or Ocean County Divorce and Family Law Attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C.

Our lead attorney, Clifford E Lazzaro, concentrates in matrimonial law and offers clients a specific insight into what they are facing in a a high net worth divorce case, child custody or child support case. Whether you are preparing for divorce, seeking alimony, the modification of a family court order or protecting yourself from someone else, please contact the law office of Clifford E. Lazzaro, PC by calling (732) 866-1600 or email us at celesquire@msn.com.

Monmouth County, New Jersey Municipal Court Attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C., on all Disorderly Persons Offenses, Traffic Offenses and Municipal Ordinance Violations

Disorderly Persons Offenses Are Heard in Municipal Court:

Criminal offenses that are essentially equivalent to misdemeanors are known as disorderly persons offenses in New Jersey. Disorderly persons offenses are punishable by a maximum of 6 months (180 days) in the county jail, plus a fine not to exceed $1,000. When a disorderly persons charge is filed against a person in New Jersey, it is handled in the municipality where the offense occurred. Some of the most common disorderly persons offenses handled in this court include simple assault, theft, shoplifting, and criminal trespass. There is one type of lesser offense called a petty disorderly persons offense which is also heard in Municipal Court. These charges are subject to penalties including up to 30 days in the county jail and fines up to $500. Some of the leading charges for this type of offense include disorderly conduct and harassment. Both a disorderly and a petty disorderly persons offense will appear on a person’s criminal record when interested parties run a background check.

Traffic Offenses Are Heard In Municipal Court:

Whether you’re facing traffic violations, such as speeding or DUI, reckless driving, our lead attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro can provide skilled representation to help you navigate the complexities of traffic court. On DUI cases, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. has also represented clients who were charged with Driving under the Influence of Drugs and Refusal to Submit to a Breathalyzer Test. Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. has also filed suppression motions challenging the constitutionality of Blood Warrants in DUI cases. Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. has hired and utilized DUI and DRE (Drug Recognition Expert) experts for expert reports and as expert witnesses at trial. Clifford E Lazzaro has successfully represented clients who were not convicted of their DUI offense or offenses after trial.

The offenses listed below are some of the most common traffic violations that are prosecuted in municipal court. All of these offenses will result in points being added to your driving record if you are found guilty.

Clifford E Lazzaro, a skilled municipal court lawyer in NJ, can defend you against these allegations:

• N.J.S.A. 39:4-81 Failure to observe traffic signals
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-82 Failure to keep right
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-85 Improper passing on right or off roadway
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1 Wrong way on a one-way street
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-86 Improper passing in no passing zone
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-88 Failure to observe traffic lanes
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-89 Tailgating
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 Reckless driving
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-97 Careless driving
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-97.2 Driving in an unsafe manner
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-97.3 cell phone while driving
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-98 Speeding
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-115 Improper turn and traffic light
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-123 Improper right or left turn
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-124 Improper turn from approved turning course
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-126 Failure to give proper signal
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1 Improper passing of school bus
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 Leaving the scene of an accident
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-144 Failure to observe “stop” or “yield” Signs
• N.J.S.A. 39:5D-4 Moving violation out-of-state
• N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 Driving while intoxicated (DUI)
• 39:4-50.4a Refusal to submit to breathalyzer test
• N.J.S.A. 39:3-40 Driving while license suspended
• It is against the law to operate a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license. Penalties for those convicted of driving while under a period of license suspension can be fines or even jail time depending upon the nature of the offense. Someone can face high fines, additional license suspension, or even jail time if they are found guilty of driving with a suspended license.

Municipal Ordinance Violations Are Heard in Municipal Court:

Ordinances often deal with the following general areas:

• Local zoning and planning
• Parking and traffic
• Animal control
• Noise regulations
• Housing and rent control
• Public nuisance violations
• Minor alcohol-related charges

When you violate a municipal ordinance, fines often range between $500 and $1,000, but they can reach up to $2,000 or a maximum 90-day community service sentence. New Jersey state law, N.J.S.A. 40:49-5, allows municipalities to punish ordinance violations by a county jail term of no more than 90 days, plus the maximum fine and community service days. However, jail time is not likely, though discretionary with the municipal court judge.

Contact an Experienced Monmouth County, Middlesex County, Mercer County, Essex County, Bergen County, Hudson County, Union County, Somerset County, Atlantic County or Ocean County Municipal Court Attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C.

If you require legal representation on any matter pending in a Municipal Court in New Jersey, please contact Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. for assistance. Give us a call at (732) 866-1600 or email us at celesquire@msn.com.

Monmouth County Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief Attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C.

If you have been convicted of a crime you can challenge the conviction through an appeal or post-conviction relief. These processes differ depending on whether your case was heard by New Jersey’s state court system or a federal court. Clifford E. Lazzaro brings more than 30 years of experience in evaluating the options available in your case as well as the likelihood of success.

The Appeal Process in State and Federal Cases

An appeal is a direct challenge to a judge or jury’s ruling in a case. There are many factors that are grounds for an appeal. Appeals are generally based on:

• Procedural problems. Judges are responsible for deciding what instructions and legal concepts juries are allowed to hear. These decisions play a great part on the outcome of any trial. We challenge a judge’s decisions when they had a prejudicial effect.
• Evidentiary issues. When a judge improperly allows or excludes evidence, there may be grounds to appeal your case.
• Questions of law. Sometimes a judge interprets a law incorrectly. In other cases, a judge may have correctly applied a law that we believe is unconstitutional. In these cases, an appeal lets us put those decisions in front of a higher authority.
• Ineffective assistance of counsel. The ineffectiveness of trial counsel can serve as a basis for appeal.

Clifford E. Lazzaro successfully appealed his client’s conviction on one count of sexual contact and one count of child abuse on the grounds that the admission in evidence at the trial of a writing as an “excited utterance” under New Jersey Rule of Evidence 803(c)(2) as a hearsay exception was reversible error. In its Decision reversing the conviction, the Appellate Division addressed an issue not previously resolved in its reported jurisprudence. State v. A.C.

Deportation Consequences if Convicted of Felony Offenses or Indictable Offenses in Federal or State Court in New Jersey or a DUI or Simple Assault in Municipal Court or a Final Restraining Order (FRO) in Superior Court

If you are not a United States citizen and are convicted of Felony Offenses or Indictable Offenses in Federal or State Court in New Jersey or a DUI or Simple Assault in Municipal Court or if a Final Restraining Order in Superior Court is entered against you, you must consider an appeal of your criminal conviction, DUI or Simple Assault conviction or FRO. Clifford E. Lazzaro, PC has handled numerous successful cases involving appeals or post-conviction relief applications of non-United States citizens convicted of felony or indictable offenses or Municipal Court charges like DUI or Simple Assault or entry of Final Restraining Order (FRO) on domestic violence cases.

Post-Conviction Relief (PCR) as an Alternative to an Appeal

Both New Jersey and federal courts allow you to attack the validity of your conviction through a motion for post-conviction relief (PCR). The purpose of Post-Conviction Relief is to challenge your conviction, or, sometimes, your sentence. You may file for this relief in order to demonstrate that you were wrongfully convicted and that your constitutional rights were violated. The violation could have occurred at any phase of the criminal proceeding against you, including during the investigation, arrest, pre-trial, plea hearing, trial or sentencing.

Grounds for filing a PCR include a significant denial of a constitutional right either under the federal constitution or the constitution or statutes of New Jersey.

Under the court rules of New Jersey, there are five general categories under which courts grant post-conviction relief:

• The defendant suffered a substantial deprivation of his or her state or federal constitutional rights, including a violation of procedural or substantive due process.
• The trial court lacked jurisdiction to impose a judgment of conviction upon the defendant.
• The sentence imposed exceeded or was otherwise not in accordance with the sentences authorized by law.
• Trial counsel was ineffective for failing to file a direct appeal of the judgment of conviction upon the defendant’s timely request.
• Any other ground previously recognized for relief under a petition of habeas corpus or another statutory or common law remedy from conviction.

Contact an Experienced Monmouth County, Middlesex County, Mercer County, Essex County, Bergen County, Hudson County, Union County, Somerset County, Atlantic County or Ocean County Appellate and PCR Attorney, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C.

If you have already been convicted of a crime, it is essential that you exercise your rights to appeal your conviction immediately. Clifford E. Lazzaro P.C. appeals or challenges cases and verdicts based on ineffective assistance of counsel, new evidence or constitutional challenges. Contact Clifford E. Lazzaro P.C. for an evaluation of your case at (732) 866-1600 or email us at celesquire@msn.com.

Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C. 4400 US Highway 9, Suite 1000, Freehold, NJ 07728 Phone: (732) 866-1600 Fax: (732) 848-6823 Email: celesquire@msn.com www.lazzarolaw.net By Appointment Only