Burlington County Taking Indeccent Liberties with a Child by Custodian Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is a serious felony in New Jersey, defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b). A conviction can result in lengthy prison terms, mandatory sex offender registration, and lifelong consequences. If you are a custodian facing these charges in Burlington County, immediate legal help is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the Charge of Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by a Custodian
The statute N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b) specifically addresses the crime of taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian. A “custodian” is broadly defined as a person over 18 who has assumed responsibility for the care of a child under 16. This includes parents, guardians, teachers, coaches, or any individual in a position of trust or authority over the child. The law prohibits any act of sexual contact, which does not require penetration, with a child for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification. The severity of the charge stems from the breach of trust inherent in the custodian relationship.
Last verified: April 2026 | Burlington County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature.
Official Legal Resources and Statutes
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey Statutes section 2C:14-3 on the state legislature’s website. For information on court procedures in Burlington County, you can visit the New Jersey Courts Vicinage 3 (Burlington) website.
Local Defense Strategy for Burlington County
In Burlington County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively in the Superior Court, Law Division. The prosecution often relies heavily on the testimony of the child and any circumstantial evidence. A key local procedural fact is that pre-trial motions challenging the admissibility of evidence or statements are frequently critical. The court scrutinizes the custodial relationship and the intent behind the alleged acts.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact a lawyer specializing in sex crime defense immediately.
- Case Assessment & Discovery: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence from the prosecution.
- Investigation & Defense Development: A parallel investigation may be conducted to challenge the prosecution’s narrative, including examining the accuser’s credibility and the context of the allegations.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional rights were violated.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will advise on whether to negotiate a plea or proceed to trial to defend your innocence.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In New Jersey, taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is a crime of the second degree, carrying severe penalties that can permanently alter your life.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Registration | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b)) | Second Degree Crime | 5 to 10 years in state prison | Up to $150,000 | Mandatory registration under Megan’s Law (Tier based on risk assessment) | Parole supervision for life, loss of custody/visitation, professional license revocation, difficulty finding housing/employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Defending Serious Charges
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of 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 high stakes and sensitive nature of charges like taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian. Our approach is direct and focused on the details of your specific situation in Burlington County.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in challenging cases. While every case is unique, our defense strategies are built on thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy. For a custodian indecent liberties lawyer in Burlington County, understanding both the law and local court procedures is essential. We work to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your constitutional rights, and pursue the best possible resolution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Burlington County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Burlington County, NJ
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Our firm is positioned to defend clients across Burlington County, including those near the Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly. We serve communities such as Moorestown, Medford, Evesham, and Willingboro. If you need a child sex offense defense lawyer in Burlington County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly does “custodian” mean in this law?
It depends. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3, a custodian is any person over 18 who has assumed responsibility for the care of a child under 16. This extends beyond legal guardians to include anyone in a position of trust, like a teacher, coach, babysitter, or family friend temporarily caring for the child.
Is this charge different from other sex crimes against children?
Yes. Taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is a distinct charge that specifically requires a proven custodial relationship and acts of sexual contact (not necessarily penetration). The breach of trust is a central element that can lead to enhanced penalties compared to some other offenses.
What are the main defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include challenging the existence of a true custodial relationship, disputing the intent for sexual arousal, proving mistaken identity or false allegations, and asserting that the contact was accidental or non-sexual. An attorney must review all evidence to determine the strongest defense strategy.
Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
Yes. A conviction for taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b) carries a mandatory requirement to register under Megan’s Law. The tier and duration of registration are determined by a court’s risk assessment.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer any questions and immediately contact a criminal defense lawyer. Speaking to law enforcement without an attorney present can severely harm your case.
How quickly should I hire a lawyer?
Immediately. Early legal intervention is crucial. An attorney can protect your rights during investigations, guide you on how to proceed, and begin building your defense before formal charges are even filed, which can significantly impact the case’s direction.
Related Pages: For other legal concerns, see our pages on New Jersey Criminal Defense and New Jersey Sex Crimes Defense. For defense in a neighboring area, consider our Camden County sex crimes lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current guidance regarding charges of taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian in Burlington County, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.