Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Aggravated criminal sexual contact is a serious indictable crime in Bergen County, New Jersey, prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3. A conviction can result in significant prison time, mandatory Megan’s Law registration, and lifelong consequences. If you are facing these charges, securing an experienced aggravated criminal sexual contact lawyer Bergen County is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
In New Jersey, aggravated criminal sexual contact is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3. It involves sexual contact committed under specific aggravating circumstances, such as the use of force or coercion, the victim being physically helpless or mentally incapacitated, or the actor being armed or having supervisory power over the victim. Unlike simple criminal sexual contact, the aggravated form is classified as a crime of the third or fourth degree, depending on the specific facts, and is heard in the Superior Court.
For a detailed reading of the statute, visit the official New Jersey Legislature website for N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3. Court procedures and local rules can be found on the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage website.
- Secure immediate legal representation before any further questioning.
- Your attorney will obtain and scrutinize all discovery, including police reports and any forensic evidence.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve challenging the credibility of the accusation, lack of evidence, or consent.
- Negotiate with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office for a potential plea to a lesser charge or explore diversionary programs like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), if eligible.
- Prepare for and proceed to trial in Bergen County Superior Court if a fair plea cannot be reached.
In Bergen County, aggravated criminal sexual contact is a third or fourth-degree crime carrying 3-5 years or up to 18 months in state prison, respectively, along with mandatory registration under Megan’s Law and parole supervision for life.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact (3rd Degree) | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3-5 years state prison | Up to $15,000 | None | Megan’s Law registration, Parole Supervision for Life, No Contact Orders |
| Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact (4th Degree) | Crime of the 4th Degree | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | None | Megan’s Law registration, Parole Supervision for Life, No Contact Orders |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the 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 a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the severe stakes of a sex crime accusation in New Jersey and provide a determined, strategic defense.
The firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in criminal matters. While specific results are unique to each case, our approach is thorough and client-focused. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New Jersey location represents clients throughout Bergen County. We serve communities including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst. If you need an aggravated criminal sexual contact lawyer Bergen County, contact us for a consultation.
FAQs: Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact in Bergen County
What is the difference between criminal sexual contact and aggravated criminal sexual contact in NJ?
The key difference is the presence of aggravating factors. Simple criminal sexual contact (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b)) is a disorderly persons offense. Aggravated criminal sexual contact (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(a)) involves factors like force, coercion, or a helpless victim, making it an indictable third or fourth-degree crime with prison time and Megan’s Law registration.
Can I go to PTI for an aggravated criminal sexual contact charge in Bergen County?
It depends. PTI is generally not available for crimes that carry Megan’s Law registration. However, in limited circumstances and with a skilled criminal charge defense lawyer Bergen County advocating for you, exceptions may be argued based on the specific facts of your case and your background.
Does New Jersey have cash bail for these charges?
No. New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017. Pretrial release for indictable charges like aggravated criminal sexual contact is determined by a judge based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score, considering flight risk and danger to the community.
What should I do if I am accused of aggravated criminal sexual contact?
First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Second, immediately contact an experienced aggravated criminal sexual contact lawyer Bergen County. An attorney from our firm can protect your rights, guide you through the process, and begin building your defense strategy from the outset.
What are the long-term consequences of a conviction?
A conviction requires registration under Megan’s Law, which is public and can last for life. It also typically includes Parole Supervision for Life, severely restricting where you can live and work, and can impact housing, employment, and family rights indefinitely.
For more information on related defenses, see our page on criminal defense in Bergen County. To understand our full range of services, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub. We also assist with DUI defense in Bergen County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, 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 Bergen 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: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer Middlesex County · Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer Essex County, NJ · Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer Hudson County, NJ.