Criminal Defense Attorney Montclair Township, NJ

A criminal charge places your freedom, career, and reputation at risk. As a criminal defense attorney in Montclair Township, NJ, we approach every case with trial readiness and disciplined strategy. Our firm draws on more than three decades of courtroom experience and former prosecutor insight. We act fast, challenge the state’s case, and protect your rights from the first court date through final resolution.

We serve Montclair Township clients who face serious and complex allegations. Our boutique structure keeps your case focused and personal. We prepare each matter as if it will reach trial. This mindset shapes our decisions, motions, and negotiations. Clients work directly with seasoned counsel who understands New Jersey courts and local procedure.

Our Practice Areas in Montclair Township, NJ

We concentrate on criminal defense, family law, municipal court matters, and appellate law. This focus sharpens our skills and strengthens outcomes. Our practice centers on litigation, motion practice, and trial advocacy. We represent clients in state and federal courts across New Jersey while keeping a strong presence in Montclair Township matters.

  • Criminal Defense Law

We defend clients accused of indictable offenses and serious crimes. Our experience includes violent charges, sexual offenses, drug cases, weapons matters, and complex investigations. As former prosecutors, we know how the state builds cases. We use that knowledge to attack weak evidence and unlawful police conduct.

  • Family Law

Family disputes demand clear thinking and firm advocacy. We handle divorce, custody, support, and asset division matters. High-conflict cases require courtroom skill and careful planning. We protect parental rights and financial interests with steady representation. We also address domestic violence matters, including restraining order hearings.

  • Municipal Court

Municipal court cases include disorderly persons offenses, traffic violations, and DUI charges. Penalties can affect licenses, employment, and records. We analyze stops, searches, and testing methods used by law enforcement. Our practice includes challenging breath and blood evidence and contesting improper procedures. We prepare defenses that target the state’s proof. Clients receive direct guidance and realistic assessments at each stage.

  • Appellate Law

Appeals require a deep understanding of trial records and legal standards. We handle state and federal appeals and post-conviction relief. Our work focuses on legal errors, evidentiary rulings, and constitutional violations. We draft clear briefs and present focused oral arguments. Our appellate experience includes successful reversals based on improper evidence admission. We evaluate options carefully and pursue relief grounded in law.

How Clifford E. Lazzaro P.C. Can Help

We combine trial experience with focused preparation. Our firm offers direct access to seasoned counsel and a disciplined litigation approach.

  • Trial-Ready Strategy: We prepare every case for trial from day one. This preparation guides investigations, motion practice, and negotiations. Judges and prosecutors recognize readiness. That recognition influences outcomes and protects client interests at each stage.
  • Former Prosecutor Insight: Our background informs how we assess evidence and witness credibility. We anticipate prosecution tactics and counter them with precision. This insight shapes targeted motions and effective cross-examination plans.
  • Focused Boutique Representation: We limit our practice areas to maintain depth and control. Clients receive personal attention and clear communication. Decisions move quickly because experienced counsel leads every step.
  • Strong Motion Practice: We challenge unlawful searches, statements, and identifications. Motions target weaknesses in the state’s case and can change leverage early. This work often shapes the path of litigation.
  • Recognized Professional Standing: Our firm holds respected distinctions, including Martindale-Hubbell Client Champion Platinum 2025 and AVVO Client’s Choice. We maintain active membership in the American Bar Association and the New Jersey State Bar Association.

If you require legal representation in Montclair 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