Forcible Sodomy Defense Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ
A forcible sodomy charge in Burlington County is a severe sexual assault offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2, classified as a first-degree crime with a potential sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused. If you are facing such a charge, immediate legal counsel is critical to protect your rights and future.
Understanding Forcible Sodomy Charges in New Jersey
Forcible sodomy, prosecuted under New Jersey’s sexual assault statutes, involves compelling another person to engage in deviate sexual intercourse through the use of force or coercion. The legal definition is precise and the consequences are severe. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on building a strategic defense against these serious allegations from the outset.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (official New Jersey Legislature). For local court procedures, visit the Burlington Vicinage court website.
handling a Forcible Sodomy Case in Burlington County
Defending against a forcible sodomy charge in Burlington County requires an understanding of the specific procedures in the Superior Court, Law Division. The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt, including the lack of consent and the use of force. A skilled forcible sodomy lawyer Burlington County will scrutinize the evidence, challenge witness credibility, and explore all procedural and constitutional defenses.
- Initial Arrest & Complaint: The process begins with an arrest and the filing of a criminal complaint. Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: The Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office reviews the case. Your attorney can present mitigating evidence or legal arguments to dissuade the state from seeking an indictment.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: For a first-degree charge, the case is presented to a grand jury. An indictment formally charges you with the crime.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your defense lawyer will file motions to challenge evidence and compel full discovery from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence and motions, your attorney will advise on whether to negotiate a plea or proceed to trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible. If errors occurred, an appeal may be filed.
Potential Penalties for Forcible Sodomy in NJ
In Burlington County, a conviction for forcible sodomy as a first-degree crime carries a mandatory minimum sentence under the No Early Release Act (NERA) and requires registration under Megan’s Law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forcible Sodomy (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2) | First-Degree Crime | 10 to 20 years in NJ State Prison (85% must be served before parole eligibility under NERA) | Up to $200,000 | Mandatory registration as a sex offender under Megan’s Law, Parole Supervision for Life, possible civil commitment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, 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 significant personal and legal stakes of a forcible sexual act defense lawyer Burlington County case and provide relentless, client-focused representation.
Our Approach to Forcible Sodomy Defense
We approach every forcible sodomy charge defense lawyer Burlington County case with a detailed investigation plan. We immediately work to secure and review all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any forensic or digital evidence. We identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as issues with consent, mistaken identity, or violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation. Our goal is to achieve a favorable resolution, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or a vigorous trial defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Sex Crimes 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) 455-5120
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Burlington County courts. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, I-295, and Route 130. If you need a forcible sodomy lawyer near Mount Holly, Moorestown, or elsewhere in Burlington County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. We serve communities including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Frequently Asked Questions: Forcible Sodomy Charges
What is the difference between sodomy and forcible sodomy in New Jersey?
Yes, there is a critical difference. Sodomy between consenting adults is not a crime in New Jersey. Forcible sodomy is a specific sexual assault crime defined by the use of force or coercion to compel the act against the victim’s will, making it a first-degree offense.
Can a forcible sodomy charge be reduced?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. An experienced sodomy charge defense lawyer Burlington County can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charge to a lesser offense, such as aggravated criminal sexual contact (a third or fourth-degree crime), which carries significantly lower penalties and may not require Megan’s Law registration.
What are the main defenses to a forcible sodomy allegation?
Common defenses include consent, mistaken identity, false accusation, lack of evidence, and violations of constitutional rights (like an illegal search or a coerced confession). A lawyer will investigate to determine the strongest defense strategy for your specific case.
Is parole possible after a forcible sodomy conviction?
No, not in the traditional sense for a first-degree conviction under NERA. The No Early Release Act requires that 85% of the sentence be served before becoming eligible for parole. For a 10-year sentence, this means at least 8.5 years must be served.
How long does a forcible sodomy case take in Burlington County?
A case can take 12 to 24 months or longer from arrest to resolution, depending on factors like the issues in dispute, evidence, pre-trial motions, and whether it goes to trial. The Law Division of Superior Court handles serious felony cases, which involve multiple stages.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also handles federal crimes in Burlington County and DUI defense in Burlington County. For an overview of our sex crimes defense practice, visit our New Jersey sex crimes lawyer hub page. We also represent clients in neighboring areas like Camden County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Forcible Sodomy Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Forcible Sodomy Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Forcible Sodomy Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.