A charge of continuing course of conduct with a child in Bergen County is a severe allegation under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4, prosecuted aggressively in the Bergen County Superior Court. This charge involves multiple acts of sexual conduct with a minor over a period of time, elevating the potential penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the Statute for Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child in New Jersey
The crime of continuing course of conduct with a child is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4. It involves engaging in two or more acts of sexual conduct with a child under the age of 16 over a period of at least 30 days. Unlike a single incident, this statute is designed to address patterns of abuse. The prosecution must prove the repeated nature of the acts and the age of the victim beyond a reasonable doubt. The specific circumstances and evidence in each Bergen County case are critical to the defense strategy.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bergen County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures, visit the New Jersey Courts Criminal Division website.
handling a Bergen County Case: Insider Procedural Edge
These cases in Bergen County Superior Court are complex, often involving extensive discovery including digital evidence, forensic interviews, and experienced testimony. The prosecution’s strategy typically relies on building a narrative of a pattern of behavior. An effective defense challenges the credibility of the evidence, examines the timeline of allegations, and scrutinizes the investigation process for procedural errors or biases.
- Initial Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally charged and must enter a plea of not guilty in Bergen County Superior Court.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution and conduct an independent investigation.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Critical motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges may be filed based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer will engage with the prosecutor to explore potential resolutions, which may involve reducing the charge or negotiating sentencing terms.
- Trial Preparation: If no plea is reached, a full trial strategy is developed, including witness preparation and experienced consultation.
- Trial or Resolution: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child
In Bergen County, a conviction for continuing course of conduct with a child is a first-degree crime carrying a mandatory minimum state prison sentence under New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA).
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Megan’s Law | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child | First-Degree Crime | 10 to 20 years in state prison (85% must be served before parole eligibility under NERA) | Up to $200,000 | Mandatory lifetime registration as a Tier 3 offender | Parole supervision for life, no contact orders, loss of professional licenses, immigration consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bergen County Defense
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high-stakes nature of sex crime allegations in New Jersey and provide a dedicated, case-specific defense. Our approach is “Advocacy Without Borders,” meaning we use every available resource to protect your rights and future.
Documented Case Results in Sex Crime Defense
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in sensitive criminal cases. While every case is unique, our strategic approach focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence, protecting constitutional rights, and pursuing the best possible resolution. We have successfully defended clients against serious charges by meticulously reviewing discovery, filing pre-trial motions, and preparing for trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child Lawyer Near Me Bergen County
If you need an affordable continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer Bergen County, contact us immediately. Our Bergen County location is centrally located to serve clients throughout the area, including near the Bergen County Justice Center in Hackensack, accessible via Route 4, Route 17, and the Garden State Parkway. We serve communities like Hackensack, Teaneck, Fort Lee, Englewood, and Paramus.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly is “continuing course of conduct” under New Jersey law?
It is a first-degree crime defined as engaging in two or more acts of sexual conduct with a child under 16 over a period of at least 30 days. The prosecution must prove a pattern, not just an isolated incident.
Is there a mandatory prison sentence for this charge?
Yes. A conviction carries a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison, and you must serve 85% of that term before parole eligibility under the No Early Release Act (NERA).
What are the long-term consequences of a conviction?
It depends on the final disposition, but a conviction typically mandates lifetime registration as a sex offender (Tier 3 under Megan’s Law), parole supervision for life, substantial fines, and severe personal and professional restrictions.
Can these charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends on the evidence. A strong defense can challenge the case through pre-trial motions, evidence suppression, or negotiating with the prosecutor. An experienced continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer Bergen County can evaluate all options.
Why do I need a lawyer who handles cases in Bergen County specifically?
Local knowledge matters. Familiarity with the Bergen County Superior Court judges, prosecutors, and procedures can inform case strategy and negotiation tactics, which is crucial for a favorable outcome.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding a continuing course of conduct with a child charge.
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Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.