Internet Sex Crimes Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Internet sex crimes in Somerset County are prosecuted aggressively under New Jersey’s strict laws, with charges often classified as indictable offenses (felonies) carrying severe penalties. An internet sex crimes lawyer Somerset County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense against allegations of online solicitation, possession, or distribution. With firm-wide experience handling 4,739+ documented case results, we understand the complex digital evidence involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Internet Sex Crime Laws
Internet-related sex offenses in New Jersey are primarily governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:14-1 et seq. (Sexual Offenses) and N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4 (Endangering Welfare of Children). These statutes criminalize a range of online conduct, including the possession, distribution, or manufacturing of child sexual abuse material (often called child pornography), as well as luring or attempting to lure a child via the internet. Charges are typically indictable crimes (New Jersey’s equivalent of felonies), with degrees ranging from second to fourth degree based on the specific act and the age of the victim. Convictions mandate registration under Megan’s Law and carry substantial prison terms.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s criminal statutes, refer to the New Jersey Legislature’s website. For information on court procedures in Somerset County, visit the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset Vicinage website.
Defending Internet Sex Crime Charges in Somerset County
Defending against internet sex crime allegations requires immediate action to secure digital evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case. Somerset County prosecutors in the Superior Court Criminal Division pursue these charges vigorously. A key local procedural fact is that New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017; pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) risk score, which can be influenced by the nature of the alleged online conduct and your ties to the community.
- Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Contact a lawyer to invoke your right to counsel.
- Preserve Digital Evidence: Do not delete files, reformat devices, or alter any potential evidence. Your attorney may need to hire a digital forensic experienced.
- Understand the Charges: Your lawyer will review the complaint or indictment to understand whether you face charges for possession, distribution, or luring, and the corresponding degree of the crime.
- Challenge the Evidence: A defense may involve challenging the legality of the search warrant, the forensic analysis, or whether you knowingly possessed or accessed the material.
- Explore Case Resolution: Depending on the facts, options may include negotiating a plea to a lesser offense, or for first-time offenders, seeking admission into the Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) program for a potential dismissal.
- Prepare for Trial or Sentencing: If the case proceeds, your attorney will prepare a strong defense for trial or, if necessary, advocate for the most favorable sentence possible, which may include alternatives to incarceration.
Potential Penalties for Internet Sex Crimes in NJ
In Somerset County, internet sex crimes classified as second-degree indictable offenses can result in 5 to 10 years in state prison, with a presumption of imprisonment for many offenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luring/Enticing a Child (under 18) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | N/A | Megan’s Law registration, Parole Supervision for Life |
| Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | N/A | Megan’s Law registration, Parole Supervision for Life |
| Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | N/A | Megan’s Law registration |
| Endangering Welfare of a Child (via internet) | 2nd or 3rd Degree Crime | 5-10 years or 3-5 years | Up to $150,000 or $15,000 | N/A | Megan’s Law registration possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Internet Sex Crimes 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 track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes and complex digital forensics involved in internet sex crime cases and provide a focused, strategic defense.
Case Results & Firm Experience
While specific Somerset County results are integrated into our firm-wide totals, our attorneys have successfully defended clients against serious sex crime allegations. For instance, our team has secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) in child pornography promotion cases and negotiated favorable resolutions in other sensitive matters. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our online sex offense defense lawyer Somerset County team is familiar with the Somerset Vicinage court procedures and the prosecutors who handle these sensitive cases.
Contact Our Somerset County Internet Sex Crimes Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing charges at the Somerset County courts. We represent individuals in communities including 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
By appointment only.
24/7 Phone Consultations
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
If you are under investigation or have been charged with an internet sex crime in Somerset County, contact an internet solicitation defense lawyer Somerset County at our firm immediately for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Jersey have cash bail for internet sex crimes?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in January 2017. Pretrial release in Somerset County for indictable offenses like internet sex crimes is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) risk score, not money.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for an internet sex crime in Somerset County?
It depends. PTI is a diversion program for first-time indictable offenders. Eligibility for internet sex crimes is highly restrictive and often requires prosecutor and judge approval. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision can result in dismissal.
Can I get an internet sex crime conviction expunged in NJ?
It depends. Most Megan’s Law offenses, including many internet sex crimes, are not eligible for expungement under New Jersey law. You must wait 5 years after completing your sentence for indictable crimes, but eligibility is severely limited for these specific offenses.
What should I do if the police want to talk to me about an online sex crime?
No. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you.
What is the difference between possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material?
Possession (a 3rd-degree crime) means having files on a device. Distribution (a 2nd-degree crime) involves sharing, sending, or making files available, which can include peer-to-peer software seeding files. Penalties for distribution are significantly more severe.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other criminal charges in Somerset County, you may need a Somerset County criminal defense lawyer. For charges originating from online activity, consulting with an experienced federal criminal lawyer in Somerset County may also be necessary, as some internet crimes are prosecuted federally. Learn more about our firm’s approach on our New Jersey criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.