State v TW, Somerset County Superior Court, March 2024

In March 2024, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C., secured a favorable result for a client facing severe charges in Somerset County Superior Court. The client, T.W., was charged with two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and several related offenses, including weapons charges and conspiracy. 

These charges carried a total New Jersey State prison sentence of 70 years. This included 60 years without parole for the murder counts, and an additional 10 years subject to 85% parole ineligibility under the No Early Release Act (NERA).

On top of that, the client faced mandatory extended terms as a persistent offender due to an extensive prior criminal history. A conviction on all counts would have resulted in a life behind bars without realistic parole opportunities.

Over two years, Clifford E. Lazzaro, P.C., challenged the prosecution’s evidence through multiple suppression and dismissal motions. These filings revealed key weaknesses in the State’s case and highlighted serious proof issues. The court heard these motions, and the State entered into plea negotiations due to the issues raised.

The client ultimately pleaded guilty to a single count of first-degree conspiracy to commit murder. He received a 10-year sentence with 85% parole ineligibility under NERA—a dramatic reduction from the original 70-year exposure.

Effective Criminal Defense in High-Stakes Cases

This case highlights the importance of experienced legal defense in New Jersey murder and attempted murder cases. Strategic motions, legal knowledge, and persistence can lead to significantly better outcomes, even when the charges seem overwhelming.

If you or someone you know is facing serious felony charges in Somerset County or anywhere in New Jersey, contact Lazzaro Law to protect your rights and explore every possible defense.

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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...

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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

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