Jean Bernice Bennett, Criminal Defense Attorney in Montclair, New Jersey

Jean concentrates on criminal defense, family law, juvenile, probate, and real estate. Each area below outlines the kind of case Jean handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Family Law

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• Juvenile

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• Probate

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• Real Estate

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• Appellate

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Jean's primary office is at 504 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair, NJ, 07042. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Jean usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Jean discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Jean for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Jean walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Jean offer a free consultation?

  Jean charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Jean's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Jean's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in New Jersey typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Jean gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Jean take my case if I'm outside Montclair?

  Jean is licensed in New Jersey. Matters governed by New Jersey law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Jean will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Jean?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Jean will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Jean accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Jean's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.