Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer Burlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Criminal sexual contact in Burlington County is a serious indictable offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3, prosecuted in the Superior Court. A conviction can lead to years in prison, Megan’s Law registration, and lifelong consequences. As a Criminal Sexual Contact lawyer Burlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these sensitive cases. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results. We offer 24/7 consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Understanding Criminal Sexual Contact Charges in New Jersey
In New Jersey, criminal sexual contact is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3. It involves intentional sexual contact with another person without their consent, or where the victim is unable to consent due to age, mental capacity, or because they are physically helpless. This is distinct from sexual assault and is typically charged as a fourth-degree crime, but can be elevated to a third-degree crime under aggravating circumstances, such as the use of force or coercion, or if the victim is under 16 and the actor is at least four years older. The statute is part of New Jersey’s full sexual offense laws, which are strictly enforced by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey Criminal Code, Title 2C. Court procedures and forms for Burlington County cases are managed by the Superior Court of New Jersey, Burlington Vicinage.
The Burlington County Court Process for Sex Crime Charges
Sex crime cases in Burlington County follow a specific path through the Superior Court, Criminal Division. The process begins with an investigation, often skilled to a complaint and warrant. For indictable offenses like criminal sexual contact, the case is presented to a grand jury at the Burlington County Courthouse in Mount Holly. If indicted, the case proceeds to pre-trial conferences and potentially a trial. A key local procedural fact is that the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office handles these cases aggressively, and early intervention by a skilled criminal case representation lawyer Burlington County is critical to challenge evidence and negotiate before formal charges are solidified.
- Initial Arrest & Complaint: You will be processed and likely held pending a detention hearing under NJ’s bail reform.
- First Appearance/Detention Hearing: A judge determines if you will be released pending trial, often with conditions.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The prosecutor presents evidence to a secret grand jury to secure an indictment.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your attorney negotiates with the prosecutor, files motions to suppress evidence, and prepares for trial.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing & SORA: If convicted, sentencing includes prison time, fines, and mandatory Sex Offender Registration (SORA).
In Burlington County, a criminal sexual contact conviction carries 18 months to 5 years in prison, mandatory Megan’s Law registration, and parole supervision for life.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact (3rd Degree) | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3 to 5 years | Up to $15,000 | None | Megan’s Law Registration, Parole Supervision for Life, 85% NERA (No Early Release Act) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burlington County Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of a sex crime accusation and the significant impact it has on your reputation, freedom, and future. Our approach is direct and strategic, focusing on the specific facts of your case to build the strongest possible defense.
Our Record in Handling Sensitive Cases
While specific local case results are not disclosed for client confidentiality, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results across all practice areas with a high rate of favorable outcomes. We apply this extensive experience to every criminal sexual contact case in Burlington County, striving for reductions, dismissals, or acquittals where possible.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer Near Burlington County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Burlington County, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and Medford. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike and I-295. If you need a criminal sexual contact lawyer near the Burlington County Courthouse, we are here to help.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between sexual assault and criminal sexual contact in NJ?
It depends on the specific acts involved. Sexual assault (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2) generally involves sexual penetration. Criminal sexual contact (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3) involves sexual contact without penetration, such as touching. Both are serious indictable offenses prosecuted in Superior Court.
Can I go to jail for a first-time criminal sexual contact charge?
Yes. A fourth-degree criminal sexual contact conviction carries up to 18 months in state prison. Aggravating factors can elevate the charge to a third-degree crime with 3-5 years. A strong defense from a criminal charge defense lawyer Burlington County is essential to fight these penalties.
Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
Yes. A conviction for criminal sexual contact in New Jersey triggers mandatory registration under Megan’s Law (N.J.S.A. 2C:7-1 et seq.). The tier and duration of registration are determined by the court at sentencing, but it often results in lifetime registration and community notification.
What should I do if I am accused of criminal sexual contact?
Do not speak to law enforcement or prosecutors without an attorney. Immediately contact a criminal case representation lawyer Burlington County. Exercise your right to remain silent. The early stages of an investigation are critical for building a defense and protecting your rights.
How long does a criminal sexual contact case take in Burlington County?
These demanding cases can take from several months to over a year. The timeline includes investigation, grand jury presentation, pre-trial motions, and potentially a trial. An experienced attorney can sometimes negotiate a resolution sooner, but preparation for a lengthy process is necessary.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
New Jersey Sex Crime Lawyer | Sex Crime Lawyer Camden County | Criminal Defense Lawyer Burlington County
Burlington County cases are handled by our New Jersey criminal sexual contact practice, where the whole process is set out.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, 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 Burlington 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: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer, Middlesex County NJ · Criminal Sexual Contact Lawyer Hudson County NJ.