International Human Trafficking Lawyer in Camden County, NJ
International human trafficking charges in Camden County are prosecuted under both federal law (18 U.S.C. § 1581 et seq.) and New Jersey’s human trafficking statute (N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8). These are severe felony offenses with mandatory minimum sentences. As an international human trafficking lawyer Camden County clients can consult, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these complex allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Understanding Human Trafficking Laws in New Jersey
Human trafficking is defined under New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8) as knowingly recruiting, enticing, harboring, transporting, providing, or obtaining another person for the purpose of involuntary servitude, debt bondage, or forced labor. The law also criminalizes causing a person to engage in a commercial sex act through force, fraud, or coercion, or if the person is under 18. These charges are classified as first or second-degree crimes, carrying penalties of 10-20 years or 5-10 years in state prison, respectively. Federal law (18 U.S.C. Chapter 77) provides parallel and often concurrent jurisdiction for cases involving interstate or international activity, with penalties that can include life imprisonment.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s human trafficking statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8 (New Jersey Legislature). For information on court procedures in Camden County, visit the Camden Vicinage website.
Defending Against Trafficking Charges in Camden County
Defending a trafficking charge requires a detailed attack on the prosecution’s evidence of force, fraud, coercion, or knowledge. In Camden County Superior Court, these cases are prosecuted by the Special Victims Unit or the Organized Crime and Racketeering Bureau. A key local procedural fact is that New Jersey’s human trafficking statute includes a defense if the defendant was a victim of trafficking themselves. also, the Camden Vicinage has specialized judges familiar with these complex cases, and early engagement with pretrial services can be critical for release considerations under New Jersey’s bail reform system.
- Immediate Legal Intervention: Contact an attorney before speaking with investigators from the FBI, HSI, or the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney will scrutinize all evidence for lack of coercion, consent, or mistaken identity.
- Motion Practice: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges for lack of probable cause.
- Negotiation or Trial: Pursue a case-specific strategy, which may involve negotiating for reduced charges or preparing for a vigorous trial defense.
Potential Penalties for Human Trafficking in NJ
In Camden County, human trafficking is a first or second-degree crime, punishable by 5 to 20 years in New Jersey state prison, massive fines, mandatory restitution, and lifelong sex offender registration in certain cases.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Trafficking (Adult) | 1st or 2nd Degree Crime | 5-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Restitution, Asset Forfeiture |
| Human Trafficking (Minor) | 1st Degree Crime | 20 years-Life (if federal) | Up to $250,000+ | Mandatory Sex Offender Registration |
| Forced Labor Violations | 1st or 2nd Degree Crime | 5-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Civil lawsuits, Deportation risk |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients in the most serious cross-jurisdictional cases. We understand the severe stakes of an international human trafficking accusation and the complex interplay between state and federal law.
Our Approach to Trafficking Charge Defense
Our defense strategy is built on immediate and thorough investigation. We challenge the prosecution’s evidence of force, fraud, or coercion—the core elements of any trafficking charge. For a forced labor defense lawyer Camden County residents can rely on, we meticulously examine employment records, contracts, and witness statements to rebut allegations of involuntary servitude. In one firm-wide case result, our attorneys secured a dismissal where the evidence showed a contractual dispute, not criminal coercion. Another case involved challenging the credibility of key witnesses, skilled to a favorable plea agreement on significantly reduced charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Camden County International Human Trafficking Lawyer
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) 334-7465
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at courts throughout Camden County, including Camden, Cherry Hill, and Gloucester Township. We are accessible via I-76, Route 70, and the NJ Turnpike. 24/7 phone consultations are available — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between human trafficking and smuggling?
Yes, there is a critical difference. Smuggling is a crime against a border, involving illegal transportation. Human trafficking is a crime against a person, involving exploitation through force, fraud, or coercion for labor or commercial sex, and can occur without any movement across borders.
Can I be charged in both state and federal court for human trafficking?
Yes. Under the doctrine of dual sovereignty, you can face separate charges in New Jersey state court (Camden County Superior Court) and U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey for the same underlying conduct. This makes securing an experienced international human trafficking lawyer Camden County and federal courts respect essential.
What defenses are available against a forced labor charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of coercion (showing the work was voluntary), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, and violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation. A forced labor defense lawyer Camden County clients hire will investigate all employment records and witness accounts to build these defenses.
What should I do if I am under investigation for trafficking?
Immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact a lawyer. Do not speak with law enforcement (FBI, HSI, local police) or anyone else about the case. An attorney can intervene, assess the investigation’s scope, and protect your rights from the very beginning.
What are the long-term consequences of a trafficking conviction?
Beyond prison time, consequences include mandatory sex offender registration (for certain offenses), massive fines and restitution, asset forfeiture, deportation for non-citizens, loss of professional licenses, and severe social stigma that impacts future employment and housing.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Atlantic County and Burlington County. If you are facing other serious charges, learn about our work as a Camden County DUI lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.