New Jersey Criminal Defense — Trial Lawyer Threat
When Your Freedom Is on the Line, You Need a Trial Lawyer Who Has Been in Every Room.
A criminal charge is not just a legal problem. It is a threat to your freedom, your family, your career, and your reputation. The moment you are charged — or even investigated — the clock starts. Every decision you make in the first 48 hours can determine the outcome of your case.
Sean Branigan is a trial lawyer threat at every level of the New Jersey court system — from municipal court to Superior Court to federal proceedings. He has served as a Pool Attorney for the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender, handling appointed criminal defense and family matters across the state. He knows the prosecutors, the judges, and the system — and he uses that knowledge to protect his clients.
Sean's approach to criminal defense is strategic, not reactive. He does not wait for the prosecution to make its case. He investigates, challenges, and attacks the government's evidence from day one — suppression motions, discovery demands, witness challenges, and constitutional arguments. His reputation as a trial lawyer threat is itself a negotiating asset — prosecutors know that Sean will take a case to trial if the offer is not right.
Whether you are facing a DWI, a drug charge, a white-collar investigation, or a serious felony — Sean is the attorney who moves fast, prepares thoroughly, and does not back down.
Reach Sean Directly
Direct Cell
973.519.3332
Office
973.744.2223
Free diagnosis & strategy session available.
Strategic consultation: $1,000.
True victims & the wrongfully accused are never turned away.
Bilingual — English & Spanish.
Scope of Representation
What Sean Handles in Criminal Defense
DWI / DUI Defense
New Jersey DWI law is complex and the consequences are severe. Sean challenges breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and the constitutionality of traffic stops — pursuing every available defense.
Drug Charges
From simple possession to distribution and trafficking — Sean defends drug charges at every level, including challenging illegal searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment.
White-Collar & Business Crimes
Fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, tax evasion, and regulatory violations require a lawyer who understands both the criminal law and the business context. Sean brings both.
Assault & Violent Crimes
Assault, aggravated assault, domestic violence, and weapons charges carry serious consequences. Sean builds aggressive defenses — challenging the prosecution's evidence and protecting his clients' rights.
Federal Criminal Defense
Federal investigations and prosecutions require specialized experience. Sean is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and has handled federal criminal matters with the precision they demand.
Expungements
A criminal record can follow you forever — affecting employment, housing, and professional licenses. Sean handles expungements under New Jersey's revised expungement law, helping clients clear their records and move forward.
Municipal Court Defense
Traffic offenses, disorderly persons offenses, and municipal violations can have serious consequences. Sean represents clients in municipal courts throughout New Jersey — fighting for dismissals, diversions, and reduced charges.
Pre-Charge Representation
If you are under investigation but have not yet been charged, early intervention is critical. Sean engages with prosecutors and investigators before charges are filed — sometimes preventing charges entirely.
Who Calls Sean
This Practice Area Is Built for You If…
Defending clients in municipal courts, Superior Courts, and federal court throughout New Jersey. Serving Essex County (Newark, Montclair, Bloomfield), Morris County (Morristown, Parsippany), Hudson County (Jersey City, Hoboken), Ocean County (Toms River, Brick), and all surrounding counties.
- You have been arrested or charged with a crime in New Jersey and need an experienced trial lawyer immediately.
- You are under investigation and have not yet been charged — early intervention can change everything.
- You are a business owner or executive facing white-collar criminal charges or a regulatory investigation.
- You were charged with DWI and need an attorney who will challenge every element of the prosecution's case.
- You have a prior conviction that is affecting your employment, housing, or professional license and want to explore expungement.
- You are facing federal criminal charges in the District of New Jersey.
- You were falsely accused and need an attorney who will dismantle the case against you with precision.
- You need a lawyer who will tell you the truth about your case — not just what you want to hear.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested in New Jersey?
Exercise your right to remain silent immediately. Do not answer questions, make statements, or consent to searches without an attorney present. Call Sean as soon as possible — the decisions made in the first hours after an arrest can determine the outcome of your case.
What is the difference between a disorderly persons offense and an indictable offense in New Jersey?
Disorderly persons offenses (similar to misdemeanors) are handled in municipal court and carry penalties of up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Indictable offenses (felonies) are handled in Superior Court and carry significantly higher penalties. Sean handles both.
Can I get a DWI expunged in New Jersey?
DWI convictions in New Jersey are traffic offenses, not criminal convictions, and are not eligible for expungement. However, many other criminal convictions are now eligible for expungement under New Jersey's revised law. Sean will assess your specific situation and advise you on your options.
What is pre-trial intervention (PTI) and am I eligible?
PTI is a diversionary program that allows first-time offenders to avoid a criminal conviction by completing a period of supervision. Eligibility depends on the nature of the offense and the applicant's background. Sean has successfully obtained PTI for clients facing serious charges.
How does Sean approach plea negotiations?
Sean prepares every case as if it is going to trial — because that preparation is what forces favorable plea offers. Prosecutors know his reputation. He will not accept a plea that is not in your best interest, and he will take your case to trial if the offer is not right.