Criminal Defense Attorney Manalapan Township, NJ

A criminal charge places a person directly into the power of the justice system, where decisions move fast and consequences follow quickly. A criminal defense attorney in Manalapan Township, NJ must act with precision, preparation, and authority inside the courtroom. We approach every case with a trial-focused mindset built on decades of courtroom experience. Our background as former prosecutors shapes how we challenge evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and confront the State at every stage.

Manalapan Township residents face charges that range from municipal offenses to serious indictable crimes. Each situation demands a defense strategy grounded in facts, procedure, and court rules. We draw on more than thirty years of trial experience to protect rights, confront allegations, and push back against overreach. Our firm handles complex matters with discipline, focus, and direct advocacy.

Our Practice Areas in Manalapan Township, NJ

We concentrate on criminal defense, family law, municipal court matters, and appellate law. Our boutique structure allows us to focus on high-stakes cases that demand courtroom skill and personal attention. We represent clients in Manalapan Township and throughout New Jersey in state and federal courts.

  • Criminal Defense Law

Criminal cases require immediate action and strategic planning. We defend clients charged with serious offenses, including violent crimes, drug offenses, weapons charges, and sex-related allegations. Our experience as former prosecutors allows us to anticipate how the State builds cases and where weaknesses often appear. We challenge unlawful searches, improper statements, and flawed investigations through focused motion practice.

  • Family Law

Family law disputes affect finances, parental rights, and long-term stability. We represent clients in divorce, custody, support, and domestic violence matters with a firm and disciplined approach. Our trial background strengthens our ability to present evidence, question witnesses, and argue contested hearings before judges.

High-asset divorces and custody disputes demand careful planning and clear advocacy. We address equitable distribution, support disputes, and parenting issues through litigation-driven strategy. When domestic violence allegations arise, we handle restraining order hearings with urgency and preparation.

  • Municipal Court

Municipal court matters carry serious consequences that often affect employment, driving privileges, and criminal records. We defend clients charged with disorderly persons offenses, traffic violations, and DUI offenses in Manalapan Township municipal court. These cases demand attention to procedure and constitutional protections.

Our firm files motions that challenge unlawful stops, improper testing, and defective charges. We also represent clients at restraining order hearings and sentencing proceedings. A focused defense at the municipal level often shapes long-term outcomes.

  • Appellate Law

Appeals and post-conviction relief require a detailed review of trial records and legal rulings. We represent clients seeking relief after conviction in both state and federal courts. Appellate advocacy focuses on legal error, constitutional violations, and ineffective assistance of counsel.

We prepare written briefs and oral arguments with clarity and structure. Our appellate work reflects years of experience challenging improper rulings and preserving legal rights. We approach each appeal with careful analysis and disciplined advocacy.

How Clifford E. Lazzaro P.C. Can Help

We handle criminal defense matters with direct involvement from an experienced trial attorney. Our firm remains focused on preparation, courtroom advocacy, and strategic decision-making.

  • Former Prosecutor Insight: We understand how prosecutors assess cases, select charges, and prepare trials. That experience allows us to anticipate tactics, challenge weak evidence, and counter aggressive prosecution strategies with informed courtroom responses.
  • Trial-Focused Defense Strategy: Our practice centers on trial readiness. We prepare each case for litigation, not quick resolution. This approach strengthens negotiation positions and protects clients when cases move before judges or juries.
  • Serious and Complex Case Experience: We handle high-exposure criminal matters involving significant penalties. Our experience includes jury trials, suppression hearings, and extended litigation that demand discipline and precision.
  • Personal Attention from a Boutique Firm: Clients work directly with an attorney who prepares and argues the case. We maintain close communication and remain accessible throughout the legal process.
  • Recognized Professional Standing: Our work reflects recognition from Martindale-Hubbell, AVVO, Lawyers of Distinction, and membership in the American Bar Association and New Jersey State Bar Association.

If you require legal representation in Manalapan Township, New Jersey, contact us today to discuss your case.

Client Reviews

Discover what our clients have to say about their experiences with Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C.

Mr Lazzaro was referred to me from another attorney, in order to settle a family type dispute. His extensive knowledge and experience in family law provided me the peace of mind and confidence I needed when I entered that court room. Although...

Anonymous

Hard Working. I was charged in a federal criminal case with armed robbery and kidnapping. Mr. Lazzaro has worked tirelessly on my behalf. He got a bail package approved and then he negotiated a very good deal. It was a very complicated case with...

Anonymous

When You Need To Win. Hi.iam a 37yr old man who never been in trouble before.in 2009 I was accused of second degree sexual assault . As it was a shock wave in my life,I did not understand what was going on I was innocent. I went to Clifford's...

Anonymous

Great work of Cliff Lazzaro. I was facing 50 years on 2 first degree racketeering charges and one second degree witness tampering charge. Mr. Lazzaro was able to have both racketeering charges dismissed. He then negotiated a plea to third degree...

Anthony

Trustworthy. A remarkable attorney!!! I had third degree indictable charges for prescription fraud downgraded to disorderly persons due to Mr. Clifford Lazzaro's expertise. He is incredible making the right decisions for his clients and cares...

John

Great Attorney. I am writing a special review today. If you need an attorney please do yourself a favor and hire Mr. Lazzaro. Not only has he represented us in the past with a dismissal in a criminal drug case he also recently represented my...

JSweeney

Cliff is the best! When I needed help to get out of trouble Cliff came through big time. He has good relationships with almost everyone in the state so he was able to push and push and get an amazing deal on my behalf. I will be forever grateful...

Ori

Wrong place wrong time, guilt by association. Careful who you give a ride. Gave my "friend" a ride to the pharmacy to fill "his Mother's" prescription and before I knew it I was under arrest for 3 felony charges. I was referred to Cliff Lazzaro...

Rudy

The BEST lawyer around! !f your looking for a really good lawyer! You’ve found him! Cliff is professional and knows his practice inside and out. Cliff saved my life. He gave me back my life! I was facing 20 years and we ended up walking out...

Anonymous

Phenomenal Attorney. Very knowledgeable and compassionate. You definitely would want him on your A team.

C Rich

Words can’t even explain how fantastic Clifford Lazzaro is. He got my entire case dismissed with prior charges pending. Shows that hes 100% trustworthy and truly cares for his clients.

Caitlin B

Trial Attorney. I was charged with aggravated assault and possession of a weapon for stabbing a person in the chest with a knife. After a 2 week trial, the jury was deadlocked. I trestified at trial that the victim pulled the knife against me...

Damon

EXCELLENT Attorney!! Mr. Lazzaro has been my attorney for many years and has also represented other family members. He has handled criminal and family matters and in both areas he has been able to obtain positive outcomes in all cases. If not...

Doreen

Best lawyer in NJ. Hiring Clifford Lazzaro to represent me was the best decision I ever made. I didn't know the legal process of restraining orders and if I didn't have him by my side I am sure I would have lost the case. He is very...

Granville

A criminal drug case. An ABSOLUTE PERFECT FIND!!!!! A routine traffic stop turned into a criminal drug case. Facing 5-15yrs and over $15,000 in fines and offenses. Perused the internet looking for that perfect attorney. My son, honor student...

Jacki L. S.

Cliff is simply the best in the business. His rates are a clear sign of knowledge, passion, and unparalleled results. The man knows magic

Jacob S

Without Mr. Lazzaro's legal representation, I would never have been granted my final restraining order. He is a very experienced trial attorney who prepared me prior to my testifying. He won my final restraining order hearing. Highly recommended

Jennifer

Clifford is an Angel. Just when I thought I had no other choice but to take do 2 years in a federal prison, I hired Cliff and he helped me understand what I was facing and the options I had. I looked at Cliff and said surprisingly “ I have...

Johanna

EXCELLENT Representation!!!! I had an ongoing, complicated case that spanned both criminal matters in superior court and related matters in family court. I was referred to Mr. Lazzaro by several friends who highly recommended him and were happy...

Lena

Contact Us

Fill out the contact form or call us at (732) 866-1600 
to schedule your consultation.
  • Experience Over 30+ Years of Experience
  • Availability Available 24/7
  • Gavel Proven Track Record

Call Us (732) 866-1600