New Jersey Human Trafficking Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Human trafficking is a severe felony in New Jersey under N.J. Stat. § 2C:13-8, carrying a potential life sentence. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a strategic defense immediately. A New Jersey Human Trafficking Lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides that defense. Our firm has extensive experience with complex sex crime cases across the state.
New Jersey Human Trafficking Law
New Jersey law defines human trafficking broadly as knowingly recruiting, harboring, transporting, or obtaining a person for the purpose of involuntary servitude or commercial sexual activity. The statute, N.J. Stat. § 2C:13-8, is aggressively enforced and can be applied to a wide range of conduct, from forced labor to sex trafficking. The severity of the charge hinges on factors like the age of the victim, the use of force or coercion, and whether the activity was part of a larger criminal enterprise. A Human Trafficking Attorney New Jersey must understand these nuances to build an effective defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Jersey Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey Statutes § 2C:13-8 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures and filings are managed through the New Jersey Courts website.
Building a Defense in New Jersey Courts
Prosecutors in counties like Bergen, Essex, and Middlesex pursue these charges vigorously, often relying on digital evidence and cooperating witnesses. An early defense intervention is critical to challenge the initial evidence and negotiate before formal charges are filed. The prosecution must prove you knowingly engaged in trafficking for a commercial purpose, which can be a point of legal attack.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact a lawyer the moment you suspect you are under investigation.
- Case Assessment & Evidence Review: Your attorney will obtain all discovery, including police reports, witness statements, and digital evidence, to evaluate the strength of the state’s case.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, strategies may include challenging the element of coercion, disputing the knowledge requirement, or filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
- Negotiation or Trial Preparation: Your lawyer will engage with prosecutors, seeking dismissal or reduction of charges. If a fair plea cannot be reached, they will prepare a strong defense for trial.
Potential Penalties for Human Trafficking in New Jersey
In New Jersey, human trafficking is a first-degree crime punishable by 20 years to life in prison and fines up to $200,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Trafficking (Adult Victim) | First-Degree Crime | 20 years to life | Up to $200,000 | Mandatory registration under Megan’s Law, asset forfeiture, restitution |
| Human Trafficking (Minor Victim) | First-Degree Crime | 25 years to life | Up to $200,000 | Mandatory registration under Megan’s Law, asset forfeiture, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally oversees complex criminal defense strategies. We have a documented record of handling sensitive, high-stakes sex crime cases, including those involving trafficking allegations.
Case Results
Our firm has a firm-wide record of over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While every case is unique, our systematic approach to defense has consistently achieved dismissals, acquittals, and charge reductions for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a New Jersey Human Trafficking Lawyer Near You
Our New Jersey location serves clients across the state. If you need a New Jersey Sex Trafficking Lawyer, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. We represent clients in communities across New Jersey.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 651-0900
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between human trafficking and promoting prostitution in NJ?
Yes, there is a major difference. Promoting prostitution (N.J. Stat. § 2C:34-1) is typically a third or fourth-degree crime. Human trafficking (N.J. Stat. § 2C:13-8) is a first-degree crime involving force, fraud, or coercion for labor or commercial sex, and carries life-in-prison penalties.
Can I be charged with human trafficking if the victim was not physically restrained?
Yes. New Jersey law recognizes psychological coercion, threats, and fraud as means of achieving involuntary servitude. Lack of physical restraint does not automatically defeat a trafficking charge.
What are the defenses to a human trafficking charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of knowledge of the victim’s coercion, challenging the credibility of witness testimony, proving the activity was consensual, or filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through unlawful search and seizure.
Is human trafficking a federal or state crime?
It can be both. You can be charged under New Jersey state law, federal law (18 U.S.C. § 1581 et seq.), or both. A New Jersey Human Trafficking Lawyer must be prepared for the possibility of dual jurisdiction.
What should I do if I am contacted by police about a trafficking investigation?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. Do not make any statements, as anything you say can be used against you. Contact a lawyer immediately.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.