Statutory Rape Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Statutory rape in Somerset County is a serious indictable crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2, with penalties ranging from 5 to 20 years in prison and mandatory Megan’s Law registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges. Our statutory rape lawyer Somerset County team, led by Mr. Sris, understands the legal and social consequences you face.
New Jersey Statutory Rape Law
In New Jersey, statutory rape is defined under the sexual assault statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2. The law prohibits sexual activity with a person who is under the legal age of consent, which is 16 years old. A key aspect is that the charge does not require the state to prove force or lack of consent; the minor’s age alone establishes the crime. The severity of the charge depends on the age difference between the parties. For example, if the defendant is at least four years older than the victim (who is 13-15 years old), it is a second-degree crime. If the victim is under 13, it is a first-degree crime regardless of the age difference. These cases are prosecuted in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset Vicinage.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and forms, visit the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage website.
Defense Strategy for Somerset County Statutory Rape Charges
Building a defense requires a detailed, case-specific approach. In Somerset County, the prosecution must prove the victim’s age and the sexual act beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense is a mistake of age, where the defendant reasonably believed the minor was over the age of consent. However, New Jersey law does not recognize this defense in all situations. Another strategy involves challenging the evidence of the sexual act itself or the minor’s credibility. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office handles these cases aggressively, often seeking severe penalties. An experienced sexual assault defense lawyer Somerset County can analyze police reports, interview witnesses, and review digital evidence to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
- Secure immediate legal representation before speaking to investigators.
- Your attorney will file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or statements.
- We will conduct a thorough investigation, including reviewing communications and witness statements.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, potentially for a plea to a lesser offense or diversionary program like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI).
- If no acceptable plea is offered, we will prepare a vigorous trial defense focusing on reasonable doubt.
Penalties for Statutory Rape in New Jersey
In Somerset County, statutory rape is classified as a first or second-degree indictable crime, carrying severe penalties including decades in prison and lifelong sex offender registration.
| Offense Degree | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Megan’s Law | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Degree (victim under 13) | Indictable Crime | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Tier 3 (Lifetime) | Parole supervision for life, No Early Release Act (85% served) |
| 2nd Degree (victim 13-15, actor 4+ years older) | Indictable Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Tier 2 (15-25 years) | Parole supervision for life |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We understand that a statutory rape charge can devastate your reputation, family, and future. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights from the initial investigation through trial or resolution.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific Somerset County results are part of confidential case files, our firm’s strategic approach has secured favorable outcomes in sensitive cases. For example, our team has successfully argued for the admission of a client into Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) programs, resulting in the dismissal of charges after supervision. In other instances, we have negotiated reductions from first-degree to third-degree offenses, significantly lowering potential penalties. We have also litigated motions to suppress evidence, skilled to weakened prosecution cases. Our rape charge defense strategy lawyer Somerset County focuses on the unique facts of your situation to build the most effective defense path.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Statutory Rape Defense Team
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Somerset County courts. We represent individuals in Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Jersey have cash bail for statutory rape charges?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in 2017. Pretrial release in Somerset County is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) risk score, not money. There are no bail bondsmen in NJ.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for a statutory rape charge in Somerset County?
PTI is a diversion program for first-time indictable offenders. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision results in complete dismissal of charges. Eligibility is strict, and an experienced statutory rape lawyer Somerset County can advocate for your admission.
Can I get a statutory rape conviction expunged in NJ?
It depends. Most first or second-degree sexual assault convictions are not eligible for expungement in New Jersey. However, if charges are dismissed after PTI, they do not result in a conviction and are removed from your record.
What is the age of consent in New Jersey?
16. Sexual activity with anyone under 16 may constitute statutory rape, with severity increasing if the victim is under 13 or if the age difference is four years or more.
What should I do if I am under investigation for statutory rape?
Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a statutory rape lawyer Somerset County. We can advise you on your rights, potentially intervene before charges are filed, and begin building your defense strategy.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles related matters. For general criminal defense, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer page. For defense in nearby areas, consider our Hunterdon County criminal defense lawyer or Morris County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal needs in Somerset County, we provide assistance with DUI/DWI defense and family law matters.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Somerset County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (aggravated sexual assault) within the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Somerset County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory.