Sextortion Lawyer Burlington County — Urgent Defense Against Blackmail Charges
Sextortion in Burlington County is prosecuted as a form of extortion or coercion under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-5, carrying severe penalties. If you are accused of using intimate images to threaten or extort someone, you need immediate legal help. A skilled sextortion lawyer Burlington County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build a defense to protect your rights and future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
What is Sextortion Under New Jersey Law?
Sextortion is not a standalone crime in New Jersey but is charged under existing statutes for extortion, theft by extortion, coercion, or harassment. The core allegation is that you threatened to distribute intimate or private images to compel someone to give you money, property, or to act against their will. These cases are often prosecuted as second, third, or fourth-degree indictable crimes (felony equivalents) in Burlington County Superior Court. The specific statute applied depends on the nature of the threat and what was demanded.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s extortion laws, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:20-5 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures for Burlington County are managed by the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Contact a sextortion lawyer Burlington County immediately.
- Preserve All Evidence: Do not delete any communications, messages, or digital files related to the allegations.
- Case Assessment: Your attorney will analyze the evidence, the nature of the threat, and the prosecution’s theory to identify defenses.
- Strategic Defense: Potential defenses may include lack of intent, absence of a true threat, or challenging the authenticity of evidence.
- Resolution: Your lawyer will negotiate for case dismissal, diversion into Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), or argue for reduced charges at the Burlington County Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for Sextortion & Extortion Charges
In Burlington County, extortion and related charges used in sextortion cases can result in years of imprisonment, significant fines, and mandatory sex offender registration in some circumstances.
| Charge (N.J.S.A.) | Degree/Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft by Extortion (2C:20-5) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 Years | Up to $150,000 | Restitution, Criminal Record |
| Coercion (2C:13-5) | 3rd or 4th Degree Crime | 3-5 Years or Up to 18 Months | Up to $15,000 or $10,000 | Potential No Contact Order |
| Criminal Sexual Contact (if applicable) | 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Degree | Varies by Degree | Varies | Megan’s Law Registration (if convicted of certain sex crimes) |
| Cyber-Harassment (2C:33-4.1) | 4th Degree Crime (or DP Offense) | Up to 18 Months | Up to $10,000 | Restraining Order |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Sextortion 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 severe personal and professional consequences of sextortion and blackmail allegations. Our approach is direct, confidential, and focused on protecting your liberty and reputation from the outset.
Case Results & Firm Experience
While every case is unique, our firm-wide commitment to vigorous defense has resulted in over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We actively represent clients in Burlington County and across New Jersey. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Sextortion Defense Lawyer Near Burlington County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Burlington County, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and Willingboro. We provide 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
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
Is sextortion a federal crime?
It depends. Sextortion can be prosecuted federally under statutes like wire fraud or interstate threats if communications cross state lines. In Burlington County, it is more commonly charged under New Jersey state extortion laws in Superior Court.
What should I do if I am contacted by police about a sextortion allegation?
Do not answer questions. Politely state you wish to speak with an attorney and immediately contact a sextortion lawyer Burlington County. Anything you say can be used against you, and early legal advice is crucial to protect your rights.
Can I go to jail for sextortion in New Jersey?
Yes. If convicted of second-degree theft by extortion, you face 5 to 10 years in state prison. Even third or fourth-degree charges carry potential jail time. An experienced extortion charge defense lawyer Burlington County is essential to fight these penalties.
What are common defenses against blackmail charges?
Defenses may include lack of criminal intent, that the communication was not a true threat, consent, or challenging the digital evidence’s authenticity. A skilled blackmail defense lawyer Burlington County will investigate all angles to build your defense strategy.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Not necessarily. Sextortion charges under extortion statutes typically do not trigger Megan’s Law registration unless the underlying act involves a separate, enumerated sex crime. Your attorney can advise on the specific charges you face.
Internal Resources
If you are facing other serious charges, learn about our New Jersey Criminal Defense services. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Hunterdon County and Somerset County. For related legal issues in Burlington County, see our pages on DUI Defense and Family Law.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.