New Jersey Death Row Closure – What Now?
New Jersey’s controversial decision to replace the death sentence with life without parole has taken on a new face as the state closes its death row and transitions prisoners to other parts of jail. It’s also confused New Jersey residents, some of whom are still reporting on death row cases and who misunderstand what has become of the six men who sat on New Jerseys’ death row prior to last month’s ban on lethal injection in the state. As Debbie Holtz points out in her blog on Politicker NJ, the men were not in fact reprieved by the abolition of the death penalty. Rather, the governor commuted their sentences.
What does the lack of capital cases in New Jersey mean for New Jersey criminal defense lawyers? A sigh of relief, for one. Now one legal misstep won’t lead to a client’s death. However, the abolition of the death penalty also serves as a reminder of the preciousness of life. Life in prison isn’t a life – and that’s why we fight so hard for each and every client here at Lependorf & Silverstein.
Luckily, defense attorneys have a whole arsenal of strategies, tactics and options at their fingertips. The right defense lawyer understands the ins and outs of the New Jersey criminal justice system and knows when to take plea bargains, when to opt for a jury trial, and when to bring in expert witnesses to discredit the prosecution. The right New Jersey defense lawyer has a long list of victories under his or her belt and has the respect and credibility it takes to keep fighting for the rights and freedom of every client.
Lependorf & Silverstein has been the right law firm for hundreds of clients whose finances, lives, and reputations have been saved by the right legal choices. We understand the confusion and fear that goes along with a criminal accusation all too well. Now that the fear of the death penalty has been removed, we can breathe a momentary sigh of relief – but the fight will never end for clients who need justice now. Have you been accused of a crime? Turn to the New Jersey defense attorneys who count. Call Lependorf & Silverstein today for a free phone consultation.
