Criminal Defense

Experienced and Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyer

Welcome to the Law Office of Maria D. Noto, P.C., a criminal defense law firm handling both State and Federal criminal cases throughout New Jersey. Steered by our core values of integrity, empathetic representation, and taking assertive legal action, we are committed to aggressively representing our clients. We understand that a criminal charge can significantly impact your life, therefore we take every measure to craft a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. Regardless of the complexity of your case, you can count on our team to advocate fiercely on your behalf.

Maria Noto has represented over 1000 clients charged with criminal offenses and has tried over 200 criminal cases with approximately 90% of those cases resulting in not guilty verdicts. If you need a criminal defense attorney near you, reach out to us today at (732) 441-9546 to start your journey towards justice. You have a right to a fair trial and we stand ready to fight for you.

Federal Criminal Defense Experience

Maria Noto has also successfully represented defendants charged in Federal Court. She has the distinction of being one of the 20 criminal defense attorneys in United States v Accetturo, the longest federal criminal trial in the United States. It was the prosecution of 20 defendants alleged to be members of the Lucchese Organized Crime Family.

After 21 months, 89 witnesses, 850 exhibits, and only 14 hours of deliberations, the jury found all of the defendants, including Maria’s client Danny Ricciardi, not guilty.

Burden and Standard of Proof in Criminal Cases

At our law firm, we passionately believe in the foundational pillar of our legal system – the presumption of innocence. That’s why we stand as unwavering advocates for individuals charged with various criminal offenses.

In criminal cases, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. It is the duty of the prosecution to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused committed the crime. The phrase ‘beyond a reasonable doubt’ suggests that the evidence put forth must be so compelling and unchallenged that there is no reasonable basis upon which a juror could hesitate to declare the defendant guilty. It’s a high bar, intended to safeguard the innocent and we hold the prosecution to this standard, casting doubt on each element of the prosecution’s case through careful analysis, thorough investigation, compelling argumentation, and years of trial experience and also experience resolving cases through favorable plea agreements where the best result will be obtained through a plea agreement instead of a trial.

Ready To Battle the Prosecution for You

Our law firm in New Jersey, is dedicated to providing top quality criminal defense services. We understand the full gravity of the situation when anyone is charged with a criminal offense. From misdemeanors to severe felonies, our firm is prepared to handle the brunt of the prosecution head-on through our commitment towards upholding your rights. We stand firm in our belief in the presumption of innocence and that everyone is entitled to a fair trial and a vigorous defense. Contact our law firm at (732) 441-9546 to explore your legal options.