Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14 Lawyer in Gloucester County, NJ
A charge of carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 in Gloucester County is a second-degree sexual assault under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2, carrying 5 to 10 years in prison and lifetime Megan’s Law registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these serious charges. The Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office pursues these cases aggressively.
What Is Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14 in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the term “carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14” refers to a specific type of sexual assault defined by statute. It involves sexual penetration with a victim who is at least 13 but less than 16 years old, and the actor is at least four years older than the victim. This charge is distinct from other sexual offenses based on the age difference and the act involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in complex case strategy, established the firm in 1997. His experience informs the firm’s approach to building defenses against serious sexual assault allegations.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact statutory language, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Title 2C, Chapter 14-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and information, visit the Gloucester Vicinage website.
Gloucester County Court Process for Carnal Knowledge Charges
These cases are prosecuted by the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office and are heard in the Superior Court, Criminal Division, in Woodbury. Because this is a second-degree indictable offense, the case must be presented to a grand jury. An indictment is required before the case proceeds to trial. The court will also order a Sex Offender Risk Assessment (SORA) prior to sentencing to determine the level of community notification required.
- Arraignment & Initial Appearance: You will be formally advised of the charges and your rights in Superior Court.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury to secure an indictment. This is a critical stage where a defense attorney can sometimes influence the outcome.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your attorney will engage in discovery, review evidence, and file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing & SORA Hearing: If convicted, the court imposes sentence and holds a separate hearing to determine your Megan’s Law tier and registration requirements.
Penalties for Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14
In Gloucester County, a conviction for carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14, a second-degree crime, carries a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years and mandatory registration under Megan’s Law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14 (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2) | Second-Degree Crime | 5 – 10 years in state prison | Up to $150,000 | None directly, but may affect professional licenses | Lifetime Megan’s Law registration, Community Supervision for Life, Parole supervision for life, Avenel evaluation possible. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Serious Sex Crime Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have handled thousands of cases, including complex sex crime defenses. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific facts and law of your case. We understand that a charge of carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 requires a detailed, evidence-based defense strategy from the outset.
Case Results in Sex Crime Defense
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in sex crime cases. While we do not have publicly verifiable results for this specific charge in Gloucester County, our firm-wide experience across New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. informs our defense strategies. We have secured dismissals and favorable resolutions in cases involving child pornography, sexual assault, and other serious allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Gloucester County Carnal Knowledge Defense Lawyer Near You
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing charges at the Gloucester County Superior Court in Woodbury. We are accessible via I-295, Route 55, and the NJ Turnpike. If you need a carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 lawyer near Gloucester County, we provide 24/7 phone consultations.
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) 651-0003
By appointment only.
We serve communities throughout Gloucester County including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, Monroe Township, Mantua, West Deptford, Glassboro, Woolwich, Harrison Township, and Pitman.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between carnal knowledge and statutory rape in NJ?
In New Jersey, “carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14” is the specific statutory term for what is commonly called statutory rape when it involves a victim of those ages and an actor at least four years older. It is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 as a second-degree sexual assault.
Is there a defense if the minor consented?
No. Under New Jersey law, a child under the age of 16 cannot legally consent to sexual activity with an adult who is at least four years older. Consent is not a valid defense to a charge of carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14. A statutory rape defense lawyer Gloucester County will focus on other aspects, such as challenging the evidence of the act, the age of the parties, or the identity of the perpetrator.
What does Megan’s Law require after a conviction?
A conviction for this charge mandates lifetime registration as a sex offender under Megan’s Law. You must register your address with local police, provide other personal information, and notify authorities of any changes. The community may be notified of your presence depending on your assigned risk tier (Tier 1, 2, or 3).
Can these charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends. While these are serious charges, an experienced underage sex charge lawyer Gloucester County can seek reductions or dismissals by challenging the prosecution’s evidence. This may involve filing motions to suppress statements or evidence, questioning the credibility of witnesses, or presenting mitigating circumstances during plea negotiations. Every case is unique.
Will I go to jail if convicted?
Yes. Carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 is a second-degree crime with a presumption of imprisonment. The sentencing range is 5 to 10 years in state prison. The No Early Release Act (NERA) requires that 85% of the sentence be served before parole eligibility.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI cases in Gloucester County and business law matters. For more information on sex crime defense in New Jersey, visit our state-wide sex crimes hub page. We also represent clients in neighboring counties like Camden County and Burlington County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 charges.