Tamra Katcher | Criminal Defense Lawyer

I had two cases at the same time where my clients had terrible drug addictions. In one case the client's children were taken from her because of the risk that the children would be harmed. I worked with the prosecutor to demonstrate that her addiction caused the criminal behavior and was able to get her into drug court. She has now been clean for over a year, recently found a job, and is looking to move into her own apartment over the summer. My other client had domestic violence problems which led to the police finding drugs in his possession. I was able to provide sufficient evidence to the prosecutor that the drugs were not possessed with the intent to distribute so those charges were dismissed and the client was able to enter PTI. However, he violated PTI and we were able to put him into drug court. After a very long road for the family, he is doing well in drug court and remains sober. These types of cases where I can assist my clients with getting the help they need through the criminal justice system are those where I feel I can make a big difference.

Clients should look for an attorney who is honest and forthcoming with them. Attorneys should not make guarantees or promises about a resolution of a case. Client should also hire an attorney who practices the type of law that is the subject matter of the client's case so that the client works with an attorney who is familiar with the law and controlling cases for the particular area of law.

I am very upfront with my clients. I do not play games and will give clients an honest answer. If I don't know the answer, I will tell the client. If I need to do research on an issue, I will tell the client. I return my clients' phone calls and emails in a timely manner and always stay in touch with my clients as their cases progress. My clients have all the documents that we submit on their behalf to the court and to adversaries, and all police reports for their case. In other words, my clients have in their own file what I have in mine.

The most rewarding part of my job is to provide help for my clients who need guidance. I have many clients come in who are going through rough times. Although the criminal justice process is not necessarily a pleasant process, helping a client to work through the issues that he/she is confronting that brought them to my office is extremely rewarding. Seeing a client who has remained sober and reunited with her children, or seeing a victim of domestic violence pick herself up and start over - these are extremely rewarding aspects of my job.

I regularly practice yoga and enjoy spending time with my family.

I am very involved in my community - I volunteer for several organizations, including local sports. I also volunteer for my town and work closely with our mayor on several issues in my community.

• Member | Bergen County Bar Association
  Member | Women Lawyer's In Bergen
  Member | Morris County Bar Association

• Peer Review Rated | Martindale-Hubbell | 2014

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