New Jersey Child Molestation Charges

Fighting Child Molestation Charges in New Jersey

Being accused of child molestation is one of the most frightening and serious allegations someone can face. Your reputation, freedom, family, career, and future are all on the line. Here in New Jersey, child molestation charges should never be taken lightly.

In this article, I’ll explain what constitutes child molestation under NJ law, the potential penalties, and viable defense strategies. My goal is to help you understand your rights and options if facing these severe criminal charges in New Jersey.

What is Child Molestation in New Jersey?

Several criminal statutes in New Jersey law prohibit sexual contact with minors[1]. This includes:

• Sexual Assault – Sexual contact with a minor under age 13
• Criminal Sexual Contact – Sexual touching of a minor 13-15 years old
• Endangering the Welfare of Children – Non-touching sexual acts in the presence of children

Penetration is not required – any sexual touching or explicit sexual activity in the presence of a child can lead to criminal charges. Even if the child willingly participated, you as the adult can be charged with child molestation.

Penalties for Child Molestation Convictions in NJ

Due to the extremely serious nature of these crimes, child molestation convictions come with some of the harshest penalties under New Jersey law[2]:

• Up to 20 years or life in prison
• Thousands in fines
• Community supervision for life
• Registration as a sex offender under Megan’s Law

You may also face restitution, Internet restrictions, counseling, loss of professional licenses, and device monitoring. The severe consequences demonstrate why an aggressive defense is critical.

Defending Against Child Molestation Charges in NJ

While the penalties are daunting, experienced criminal defense attorneys can often mount effective defenses in child molestation cases by[3]:

• Contesting that any sexual contact actually occurred
• Challenging the credibility of the accuser
• Disputing that any contact was for sexual gratification
• Raising consent as a defense depending on the circumstances
• Identifying procedural flaws in the investigation or arrest

An attorney may also negotiate with prosecutors to get charges reduced. But you need an aggressive lawyer willing to take the case to trial if necessary.

Why Hiring an Attorney is Critical

Attempting to defend yourself against child molestation charges is extremely unwise. Only an experienced sex crimes lawyer has the skills to[4]:

• Conduct a meticulous investigation of the accuser’s claims
• Obtain and present expert testimony rebutting molestation claims
• Suppress illegally obtained evidence
• Negotiate dismissal or reduction of charges
• Present compelling defenses at trial

Navigating New Jersey’s complex child molestation laws on your own is nearly impossible and will likely lead to conviction. An attorney can even the odds and give you the best chance at avoiding decades behind bars.

Let Us Help Defend Your New Jersey Sex Crime Charges

The stakes are extremely high when facing child molestation charges, but you are not alone in this fight. Our team of skilled criminal defense lawyers has decades of experience successfully defending clients accused of sex offenses like child molestation[5]. We know where to look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and how to build the strongest defense on your behalf.

Don’t leave your future solely in the hands of the state – make sure your rights are protected. Contact our office today to schedule a free case evaluation and let us help you beat these charges.