Bringing in and Harboring Aliens Lawyer in Somerset County, NJ
Federal charges for bringing in and harboring aliens in Somerset County, NJ, are serious felonies under 8 U.S.C. § 1324, carrying severe penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., with Mr. Sris skilled our federal defense team, provides experienced legal representation for individuals facing these complex charges. We handle cases investigated by ICE and prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Federal Law on Bringing in and Harboring Aliens
The federal crime of bringing in and harboring aliens is defined under 8 U.S.C. § 1324. This statute makes it illegal to knowingly bring an alien into the United States, transport an alien within the country, conceal an alien, or harbor an alien from detection, all while knowing or recklessly disregarding the fact that the alien is in the country illegally. In Somerset County, these cases are investigated by federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. A conviction is a felony with mandatory consequences, including potential prison time and fines. An alien smuggling defense lawyer Somerset County can explain the specific elements the government must prove.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 8 U.S.C. § 1324 (Bringing in and Harboring Aliens). For information on the federal court handling these cases, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Defense Strategy for Somerset County Federal Cases
Defending against charges of bringing in and harboring aliens requires a case-specific approach that challenges the government’s evidence. In the District of New Jersey, prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly. A common defense is a lack of knowledge that the individual was an undocumented alien. We also examine whether law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the investigation, such as through an illegal search or seizure. Early intervention by a harboring illegal immigrant lawyer Somerset County is critical to protect your rights and build a strong defense from the outset.
- Initial Investigation: Federal agents (ICE/HSI) conduct surveillance and gather evidence, which may lead to an arrest or indictment.
- Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Your lawyer will argue for your release on bond.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your defense attorney obtains all evidence from the prosecution and files motions to challenge it.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate for a favorable plea agreement or prepare to take your case to trial before a jury.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Harboring Aliens
In Somerset County, a conviction for bringing in and harboring aliens under 8 U.S.C. § 1324 is a federal felony with severe mandatory penalties that increase based on specific factors.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bringing in/Harboring Aliens (Base Offense) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Forfeiture of assets used |
| Offense Involving Serious Bodily Injury or Life-Endangerment | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Mandatory minimums apply |
| Offense Resulting in Death | Federal Felony | Any term of years or life | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Possible death penalty |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Immigration Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a focused approach to federal criminal defense. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, personally leads our federal practice, drawing on his extensive experience across multiple jurisdictions to handle complex cases like bringing in and harboring aliens. We understand the high stakes of federal court and work to protect our clients’ futures.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While every case is unique, our team is dedicated to achieving the best possible result in each bringing in and harboring aliens case we handle.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Federal Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Somerset County facing federal charges. We represent individuals in 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
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 455-3040
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “harboring an alien” mean under federal law?
It means knowingly concealing, harboring, or shielding an undocumented non-citizen from detection within the United States. This can include providing housing, transportation, or employment. A harboring illegal immigrant lawyer Somerset County can analyze whether the government can prove the required knowledge.
Is bringing in and harboring aliens a felony?
Yes. Violations of 8 U.S.C. § 1324 are federal felonies. Penalties range from up to 10 years in prison for basic violations to 20 years or life if the offense involves serious injury, endangerment, or death.
What is the best defense against these charges?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of knowledge that the person was undocumented, challenging the legality of the investigation (like an illegal search), or asserting that your actions do not meet the legal definition of “harboring.” An experienced alien smuggling defense lawyer Somerset County will identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Can I be deported if I am convicted?
Yes. A conviction for a federal felony like bringing in and harboring aliens makes a non-U.S. citizen deportable. Even lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can face removal proceedings following such a conviction.
What should I do if I am under investigation?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a federal defense lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. Early legal intervention is the most critical step to protect your rights and build a defense.
Related Legal Services in Somerset County
If you are facing federal charges, you may need to explore other areas of law. Our firm also assists clients in Somerset County with state criminal defense, immigration matters, and DUI defense. For a full list of our practice areas in New Jersey, visit our New Jersey federal criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.