Patronizing Prostitution in the Second Degree Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defenses?
Patronizing prostitution in the second degree is a serious crime in New Jersey, classified as a disorderly persons offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:34-1(b)(2). A conviction can result in jail time, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. If you are charged in Somerset County, you need a defense lawyer who understands the local courts. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the Statute for Patronizing Prostitution in the Second Degree
In New Jersey, the crime of patronizing a prostitute is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:34-1. The law makes it illegal to pay or offer to pay for sexual activity. The charge is elevated to patronizing prostitution in the second degree if the person patronized is under 18 years of age. This is a strict liability element in many circumstances, meaning the accused’s knowledge of the person’s age may not be a defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute text, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Annotated 2C:34-1. For local court procedures and information, visit the Somerset Vicinage website.
Local Court Process and Defense Strategy in Somerset County
Cases for patronizing prostitution in the second degree in Somerset County begin in the Superior Court, Criminal Division. These are intensely prosecuted charges. An early and strategic defense is critical. A skilled solicitation charge defense lawyer Somerset County will scrutinize the evidence, challenge the methods of the investigation, and explore all procedural and substantive defenses.
- Initial Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery Phase: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution to identify weaknesses.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge may be filed based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, often seeking a reduction to a lesser offense or a prostitution charge dismissed lawyer Somerset County outcome if the evidence is weak.
- Trial: If no fair plea is offered, your case will proceed to a jury trial where your attorney will vigorously defend you.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the circumstances.
Potential Penalties for Patronizing Prostitution in the Second Degree
In Somerset County, a conviction for patronizing prostitution in the second degree carries severe penalties, including potential jail time, significant fines, and mandatory sex offender registration under Megan’s Law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patronizing Prostitution 2nd Degree (Victim under 18) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months in county jail | Up to $1,000 | None directly, but may affect professional licenses | Mandatory registration as a sex offender; permanent criminal record; possible community 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 your case. Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal matters. We understand the high stakes of a patronizing prostitution in the second degree charge and the significant impact a conviction can have on your life, reputation, and future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our approach is focused on achieving a favorable resolution. This can range from case dismissal to reduction of charges. We meticulously prepare every case for trial, which gives us use in negotiations. Our goal is to protect your rights and work towards a prostitution charge dismissed lawyer Somerset County result when the facts and law support it.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Somerset County Defense
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, and Hillsborough. We are familiar with the Somerset Vicinage courthouse and local prosecutors. If you need a patronizing prostitution in the second degree lawyer Somerset County who is accessible and ready to fight for you, contact us 24/7.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. | 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is patronizing prostitution in the second degree a felony in NJ?
No. In New Jersey, it is classified as a disorderly persons offense, which is similar to a misdemeanor in other states. However, the penalties are severe and include the possibility of jail time.
Can I avoid jail time for this charge?
It depends on the specifics of your case, your criminal history, and the strength of the defense presented. An experienced solicitation charge defense lawyer Somerset County can negotiate for alternatives like probation, counseling, or pre-trial intervention (PTI) for eligible first-time offenders.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Yes. A conviction for patronizing prostitution in the second degree (where the person is under 18) carries a mandatory requirement to register under Megan’s Law, New Jersey’s sex offender registration statute.
What are common defenses to this charge?
Defenses can include lack of evidence, entrapment by law enforcement, mistaken identity, challenging the validity of the investigation, and questioning the proof regarding the alleged victim’s age. Each case is unique and requires a detailed review.
How can a lawyer help get my charge dismissed?
A lawyer can file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, challenge the sufficiency of the complaint, and expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. A strong defense can lead to a prostitution charge dismissed lawyer Somerset County outcome before trial.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your patronizing prostitution in the second degree charge.
New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer | Bergen County Criminal Defense | Somerset County Sex Crimes Lawyer
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 · Patronizing Prostitution in the Second Degree Lawyer Bergen · Patronizing Prostitution in the Lawyer Middlesex County · Patronizing Prostitution in the Second Degree Lawyer Hudson.