Endangering the Welfare of a Child Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ — What Are Your Rights?
Endangering the welfare of a child is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4, carrying severe penalties in Burlington County. If you are charged, securing an experienced Endangering the Welfare of a Child lawyer Burlington County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing these allegations.
Understanding the Statute for Child Endangerment in New Jersey
The crime of endangering the welfare of a child is defined under New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4. This law makes it illegal for a parent, guardian, or other person having a legal duty for the care of a child to cause them harm that would make the child an abused or neglected child. It also criminalizes engaging in sexual conduct with a child, causing a child to engage in sexual conduct for a photograph or film, or distributing such material. The statute is broad and can encompass both acts of commission and omission that place a child’s health or safety at risk.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has built over 120 years of combined legal experience defending clients against complex charges.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to the New Jersey Legislature’s website for N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4. For local court procedures and information, visit the Burlington Vicinage page on the New Jersey Courts website.
handling a Child Endangerment Case in Burlington County Court
Cases for endangering the welfare of a child in Burlington County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Criminal Division, located in Mount Holly. These are serious indictable offenses (felonies) that follow a formal process. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you engaged in conduct that endangered the child’s welfare. An early and strategic defense is vital, as these charges often involve sensitive evidence and can trigger involvement from the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P).
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally charged and asked to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a dismissal or reduced charges before the case goes to a grand jury.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: If the case proceeds, a grand jury will review evidence to decide if there is probable cause to issue an indictment.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense attorney will obtain all evidence from the state and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be based on the degree of the crime and other factors.
Potential Penalties for Endangering the Welfare of a Child in NJ
In Burlington County, endangering the welfare of a child is typically a second-degree crime, punishable by 5 to 10 years in state prison and fines up to $150,000.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Endangering Welfare of a Child (Typical) | Second-Degree Crime | 5 – 10 years (State Prison) | Up to $150,000 | Parole supervision, Megan’s Law registration (if sexual), loss of custody/visitation, professional license revocation. |
| Endangering Welfare of a Child (Certain acts) | Third-Degree Crime | 3 – 5 years (State Prison) | Up to $15,000 | Similar collateral consequences as second-degree. |
| Endangering Welfare of a Child (Disorderly Persons) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months (County Jail) | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, potential DCP&P involvement. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled thousands of criminal matters, developing a deep understanding of how to build effective defenses against serious charges like child endangerment. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights and future from the initial accusation through resolution.
Our Approach to Your Case
When you hire an Endangering the Welfare of a Child lawyer Burlington County from our firm, we immediately begin investigating the allegations. We scrutinize the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case for legal sufficiency, and explore all avenues for defense, including lack of intent, false accusations, or constitutional violations. Our goal is to seek the best possible outcome, whether that is a case dismissal, charge reduction, or a favorable verdict at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Child Endangerment Defense Lawyers
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) 200-6641
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Burlington County courts. We provide representation for individuals in Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. If you need an affordable endangering the welfare of a child lawyer Burlington County, contact us to discuss your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “endangering the welfare of a child” mean in New Jersey?
It is a crime defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4. It involves causing harm to a child, engaging in sexual conduct with a child, or creating/distributing child sexual abuse material. It can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor based on the specific acts alleged.
Can I go to jail for a child endangerment charge in Burlington County?
Yes. Most child endangerment charges are indictable crimes (felonies). A second-degree conviction carries 5-10 years in state prison. Even a disorderly persons offense can result in up to 6 months in county jail.
Will DCP&P get involved if I am charged?
It depends. The Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) is often notified of child endangerment arrests. They may open a separate civil investigation that can affect child custody and visitation rights, independent of the criminal case.
What should I do if I am accused of child endangerment?
Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact an experienced Endangering the Welfare of a Child lawyer Burlington County. The statements you make can be used against you, and an attorney can protect your rights from the start.
Are there defenses to a child endangerment charge?
Yes. Defenses can include lack of criminal intent, false or exaggerated accusations, insufficient evidence, unlawful search and seizure, or that your actions did not actually endanger the child. An attorney will analyze the specifics of your case.
Where can I find an endangering the welfare of a child lawyer near me Burlington County?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients throughout Burlington County from our New Jersey location. We offer 24/7 phone consultations. Call (888) 437-7747 to speak with a defense attorney about your case.
Related Legal Services in Burlington County
If you are facing other charges, we also provide defense for DUI in Burlington County and federal crimes in Burlington County. For statewide information, visit our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.