A continuing course of conduct with a child charge in Burlington County, NJ, is a serious allegation under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4, often involving multiple acts over time. This can lead to severe penalties, including mandatory Megan’s Law registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these sensitive cases.
Understanding the Statute for Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child in New Jersey
In New Jersey, a continuing course of conduct with a child is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4. This law addresses situations where an individual engages in two or more acts of sexual conduct with a child under the age of 16 over a period of time. The charge does not require force or coercion; the age of the victim is the central element. It is classified as a second-degree crime, carrying significant penalties upon conviction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in complex case strategy, understands how these charges are built by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office. His experience, dating back to the firm’s founding in 1997, is crucial for dissecting the timeline and circumstances alleged by the state.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and rules, visit the Burlington Vicinage website.
Local Defense Strategy for Burlington County Court
Defending against a continuing course of conduct with a child charge in Burlington County requires a nuanced approach that challenges the prosecution’s narrative of a “course of conduct.” The Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office vigorously pursues these cases. A key defense strategy involves meticulously examining the timeline and context of each alleged act to dispute the element of a continuous pattern. Scrutinizing the evidence for inconsistencies, witness credibility issues, and potential alternative explanations is paramount.
- Immediate Case Review: Contact an attorney immediately after being questioned or charged. Do not speak to investigators without legal counsel.
- Evidence Preservation: Your attorney will secure and analyze all discovery, including electronic communications, witness statements, and forensic reports.
- Pre-Indictment Strategy: Your lawyer may engage in discussions with the prosecutor to present mitigating factors or challenge the evidence before grand jury presentation.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural or constitutional grounds.
- Trial Preparation: If the case proceeds, prepare a strong defense strategy for trial, including experienced witnesses if necessary.
- Sentencing Mitigation: If a conviction occurs, advocate for the minimum possible sentence and argue against the most severe collateral consequences.
Potential Penalties for a Continuing Course of Conduct Conviction
In Burlington County, a conviction for continuing course of conduct with a child as a second-degree crime carries a potential prison sentence of 5 to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child | Second-Degree Crime | 5–10 years (N.J.S.A. 2C:43-6) | Up to $150,000 | N/A | Mandatory Megan’s Law registration (Tier 2 or 3), Parole Supervision for Life, No Early Release Act (NERA) may apply (85% served). |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burlington County Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the significant stakes of a continuing course of conduct with a child charge—not just the immediate penalties but the lifelong collateral consequences. Our approach is direct and strategic, focusing on the specific details of your case as it will be handled in the Burlington County Superior Court. We provide vigorous advocacy without borders.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results in Burlington County for this charge are not disclosed, the firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in complex criminal cases across New Jersey. Our strategies are designed to challenge the prosecution’s evidence at every stage, from pre-indictment through trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Continuing Course of Conduct with a Child Lawyer Serving Burlington County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Burlington County courts. We represent individuals in Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and surrounding communities. If you need a continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer near me Burlington County, we are accessible.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “continuing course of conduct” mean in New Jersey law?
It means two or more acts of sexual conduct with a child under 16 occurring over a period of time, as defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-4. The prosecution must prove a pattern, not just an isolated incident.
Is a continuing course of conduct charge a felony in NJ?
Yes. It is classified as a second-degree crime, which is the equivalent of a felony in New Jersey. A conviction carries a state prison sentence of 5 to 10 years.
What are the long-term consequences of a conviction?
Beyond prison, consequences are severe and lifelong. They include mandatory registration under Megan’s Law, Parole Supervision for Life, and significant barriers to employment, housing, and family life. A strong defense is critical to avoid these outcomes.
Can these charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends on the evidence. An experienced continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer Burlington County can challenge the prosecution’s case through pre-trial motions, negotiate with the prosecutor, or take the case to trial. Every detail matters in disputing the alleged pattern of conduct.
Do you offer an affordable continuing course of conduct with a child lawyer Burlington County?
Yes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides clear fee structures and payment plans because we believe everyone deserves a strong defense. We discuss all costs upfront during your initial consultation.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Camden County and Atlantic County. If you have related legal needs in Burlington County, explore our services for Federal Criminal Defense or Sex Crimes Defense.
Page last verified and updated: 2026-04-01. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding a continuing course of conduct with a child charge.