Mercer County Criminal Courthouse – Trenton, NJ

Mercer County Criminal Courthouse

Criminal Division and Case Processing

The Mercer County Criminal Courthouse, located at 400 South Warren Street, serves as the central hub for the adjudication of serious criminal matters within the Vicinage 7 of the Superior Court of New Jersey. This facility handles indictable offenses (equivalent to felonies), conducting proceedings from arraignments and pre-trial motions to jury trials and sentencing. The Criminal Division works closely with the County Prosecutor’s Office and the Public Defender to ensure due process. The courthouse also oversees the intake of bail matters and detention hearings under New Jersey’s Criminal Justice Reform act.

Recovery Court and Diversion Programs

In addition to traditional prosecution, this location administers the Recovery Court (formerly Drug Court), a specialized program aimed at breaking the cycle of addiction and crime through intensive supervision and mandatory treatment. The facility also processes applications for Pretrial Intervention (PTI), offering first-time offenders an alternative to traditional criminal records. These problem-solving courts emphasize rehabilitation and community safety over incarceration.

Security and Visiting Guidelines

As a high-security facility, all visitors entering the Criminal Courthouse must undergo rigorous screening, including magnetometer checks and x-ray inspection of personal belongings. Strictly Prohibited Items: Weapons of any kind, pepper spray, and sharp objects are banned. While cell phones are generally permitted, they must be silenced in courtrooms, and taking photographs or recording video is strictly forbidden without judicial authorization. The courthouse is conveniently located near the Trenton Transit Center, facilitating access for jurors and the public. 👮‍♂️