Hudson County Lawyer for Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian
Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian is a serious felony under New Jersey law, specifically N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b). If you are a parent, guardian, or other person with legal custody or supervision, you face severe penalties including mandatory prison time and Megan’s Law registration. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Hudson Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Law on Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian
The crime of Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian is defined in N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b). A person is guilty if they are a parent, guardian, or other person with legal custody or supervision of a child under the age of 18 and they commit an act of sexual contact with that child. The statute is designed to punish those who abuse a position of trust and authority. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, understands the severe implications of these charges and the need for an immediate, strategic defense.
Defending Against Charges in Hudson County Court
In the Hudson Vicinage of Superior Court, these cases are prosecuted aggressively. A key local procedural fact is that these charges are often filed alongside other related offenses, such as endangering the welfare of a child. The prosecution must prove both the sexual contact and your specific custodial relationship to the child. Defenses can challenge the alleged act, the intent, the credibility of the evidence, or whether a true custodial relationship existed as defined by law.
- Secure legal representation immediately after being charged or questioned.
- Your attorney will file motions to review all evidence and challenge its admissibility.
- We will investigate the circumstances, including the nature of the relationship and the allegations.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve negotiating for reduced charges or preparing for trial.
- handle all pre-trial hearings and, if necessary, a jury trial in Hudson County Superior Court.
- Address sentencing and any post-conviction requirements like registration if applicable.
Penalties for Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian in NJ
In New Jersey, Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian is a crime of the second degree, carrying a potential sentence of 5 to 10 years in state prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian | Second Degree Crime | 5-10 years state prison | Up to $150,000 | N/A | Mandatory Megan’s Law registration, Parole Supervision for Life, No Early Release Act (NERA) may apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Sex Crime Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its cases, which is invaluable when defending against serious allegations like Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian. We provide focused, assertive representation for clients in Hudson County.
Case Results in Sex Crime Defense
Our attorneys have achieved favorable results in sensitive and complex sex crime cases. In Baltimore County, Maryland, we secured a dismissal (Nolle Prosequi) for a client charged with promoting/distributing child pornography. In another Maryland case, we negotiated a favorable probationary sentence for a possession charge. While these results are from other jurisdictions, they demonstrate our firm’s commitment to vigorous defense in this area of law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Hudson County Sex Crime Defense Lawyer Near You
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Hudson County. We are accessible from Jersey City, Hoboken, North Bergen, and surrounding communities via the NJ Turnpike, Route 1/9, and public transit including the PATH train and Hudson-Bergen Light Rail. If you need a child sex offense defense lawyer Hudson County residents can consult, we are here to help.
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) 509-7297
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “custodian” mean under this law?
It depends. The law defines a custodian as a parent, guardian, or any other person with legal custody or supervision over a child under 18. This can include stepparents, live-in partners, teachers, coaches, or family members who have been entrusted with care, even temporarily.
Is this charge different from sexual assault?
Yes. While both are serious, this specific charge requires proof of a custodial relationship. It criminalizes sexual contact that may not rise to the level of penetration required for sexual assault, focusing on the abuse of a position of trust over the child.
What are the long-term consequences of a conviction?
Beyond prison time, a conviction mandates registration under Megan’s Law, often for life. This affects where you can live, work, and go to school. You will be on a public registry, face Parole Supervision for Life, and may have difficulty finding employment or housing.
Can these charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends on the evidence. A skilled custodian indecent liberties lawyer Hudson County can challenge the prosecution’s case by questioning the evidence, the child’s statements, or the definition of the custodial relationship. Negotiations may lead to a plea to a lesser offense with less severe collateral consequences.
Should I speak to the police if they contact me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer any questions without your lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you, and investigators are trained to obtain statements that can harm your defense.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing charges for Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian, act quickly. For more information on New Jersey courts, visit the Hudson Vicinage website. For other legal needs in the area, consider our pages on Federal Criminal Defense in Hudson County or DUI Defense in Hudson County. For a broader view of our services, see our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.