Sex Trafficking of a Minor Lawyer Burlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Sex trafficking of a minor is a first-degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8, punishable by 20 years to life in prison. If you are under investigation or charged in Burlington County, you need a lawyer who understands the severe penalties and complex federal and state laws involved. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these serious allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
In New Jersey, sex trafficking of a minor is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8. The law prohibits recruiting, enticing, harboring, transporting, providing, or obtaining a minor for the purpose of a commercial sex act. A “minor” is any person under 18 years of age. The charge is a first-degree crime, and the prosecution does not need to prove force, fraud, or coercion when the victim is a minor. The penalties are among the most severe in the state criminal code.
For a minor sex trafficking defense lawyer Burlington County, the immediate priority is to challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent and involvement. Defenses may include lack of knowledge of the victim’s age, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence linking you to the alleged trafficking activity. Early intervention by an experienced attorney is critical.
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the statutes is essential. You can review the official New Jersey law on human trafficking at the New Jersey Legislature website. For local court procedures and information, visit the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage website.
Local Court Process and Defense Strategy in Burlington County
All indictable offenses like child trafficking are handled by the Burlington County Superior Court Criminal Division at 49 Rancocas Road in Mount Holly. New Jersey’s bail reform means pretrial release is based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not cash. For a child trafficking charge lawyer Burlington County, building a defense starts immediately. The prosecution, often involving county, state, and federal agencies, will present evidence from electronic communications, financial records, and witness testimony.
- Secure immediate legal representation before speaking to investigators.
- Your attorney will file motions to scrutinize the evidence, including search warrants and electronic data.
- We will challenge the probable cause for the charges at the indictment stage.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for potential reductions or explore diversionary programs if applicable.
- Prepare a vigorous trial defense focusing on reasonable doubt if the case proceeds.
Potential Penalties for Sex Trafficking of a Minor in New Jersey
In Burlington County, a conviction for sex trafficking of a minor carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison, with a maximum of life, and fines up to $200,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sex Trafficking of a Minor (N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8) | First-Degree Crime | 20 years to life (mandatory min.) | Up to $200,000 | N/A | Mandatory sex offender registration under Megan’s Law, parole supervision for life, asset forfeiture, federal prosecution possible. |
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 approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights from the initial investigation through trial. We understand the high stakes of a sex trafficking of a minor charge and develop case-specific strategies to challenge the evidence against you.
Our Record in Criminal Defense
While we do not publish specific case results for this sensitive charge, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to strong defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across our practice areas.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Sex Trafficking of a Minor Lawyer Near Burlington County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at the Burlington County courts in Mount Holly. We represent individuals throughout the county, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Jersey have cash bail for a sex trafficking charge?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in 2017. Pretrial release in Burlington County is determined by a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not money. For a first-degree crime like this, securing release can be challenging without strong legal arguments against detention.
What is the mandatory minimum sentence for sex trafficking of a minor in NJ?
It is 20 years in state prison. N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8 mandates this minimum term, and the sentence can extend up to life imprisonment. The judge has limited discretion to go below the 20-year minimum upon conviction.
Can federal authorities also prosecute a child trafficking case from Burlington County?
Yes. Child trafficking is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 1591. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey often prosecutes these cases, especially if they involve interstate activity or multiple victims. You could face charges in both state and federal court.
What are common defenses to a sex trafficking of a minor charge?
Defenses include lack of knowledge that the person was a minor, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of recruitment or transportation for commercial sex, and constitutional challenges to evidence obtained from searches or interrogations. Each case depends on its specific facts.
Is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) available for this charge?
It is highly unlikely. PTI is generally for first-time, non-violent indictable offenses. Given the severity and violent nature of a child trafficking charge, prosecutors in Burlington County almost never approve PTI for this crime.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on New Jersey Criminal Defense and New Jersey Federal Criminal Defense. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Camden County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.