Hunterdon 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 under New Jersey law, specifically N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b). A conviction can result in decades in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and permanent damage to your reputation and family.
New Jersey Law on Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by a Custodian
The crime of taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is defined in N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b). This statute makes it a crime for a person who has assumed responsibility for the care of a child under the age of 16 to engage in any act of sexual contact with that child. Unlike some sexual offenses, this law does not require proof of force or that the child did not consent. The mere existence of the custodial relationship and the sexual contact is often sufficient for charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hunterdon County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources and Court Information
Understanding the formal charges and procedures is critical. The official statute is maintained by the New Jersey Legislature. Cases in Hunterdon County are prosecuted in the Hunterdon County Superior Court, Criminal Division. Familiarity with this court’s procedures is essential for an effective defense.
The Hunterdon County Legal Process for a Custodian Indecent Liberties Charge
Being charged with taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian in Hunterdon County initiates a demanding and high-stakes legal process. The prosecution often relies heavily on the testimony of the child and any other witnesses, and the mere accusation can create immense social and family pressure. An experienced child sex offense defense lawyer in Hunterdon County must immediately work to secure evidence, challenge the state’s narrative, and protect your constitutional rights from the initial investigation through trial.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be arrested, processed, and have an initial hearing where bail conditions are set. Conditions often include no contact with the alleged victim and potential GPS monitoring.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney will review discovery, interview potential witnesses, and may file pre-indictment motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors or lack of probable cause.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The case will be presented to a grand jury. If indicted, the formal trial process begins in Superior Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Hearings: Your lawyer will file motions to challenge evidence, seek experienced witnesses, and argue for the exclusion of prejudicial information.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The state may offer a plea deal. Your attorney will advise you on the risks and benefits versus proceeding to a jury trial, where all elements must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will follow, involving mandatory minimum prison terms and registration under Megan’s Law.
Potential Penalties for Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian
In Hunterdon County, a conviction for taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is a second-degree crime, carrying a potential prison sentence of 5 to 10 years, significant fines, and lifelong consequences.
| 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 – 10 years in New Jersey State Prison | Up to $150,000 | Mandatory registration under Megan’s Law (Tier 2 or 3) | Parole supervision for life, no contact orders, loss of custody/visitation, professional license revocation, difficulty finding housing/employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Defending Against Serious Sex Crime Allegations
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was established by a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years, and we have handled thousands of criminal cases. We approach each case with the understanding that an accusation of taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is devastating, and we fight to protect our clients’ freedom, reputation, and future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in difficult cases. While every case is unique, our approach is consistently aggressive and detail-oriented. We scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, challenge the validity of interviews and identifications, and assert every available defense. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Hunterdon County Residents
If you are facing charges for taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian, you need a lawyer who is accessible and understands local courts. Our firm is committed to serving clients in Hunterdon County and surrounding communities like Flemington, Clinton, Lambertville, and Readington.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “custodian” mean under this law?
It depends. A custodian is broadly defined as anyone who has assumed responsibility for the care of a child. This includes parents, guardians, stepparents, live-in partners, babysitters, teachers, coaches, or any adult in a position of trust or authority over the child, even temporarily.
Can these charges be filed even if the child “consented”?
Yes. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b), the child’s consent is not a defense. The law is designed to protect children from sexual exploitation by those entrusted with their care, regardless of the child’s stated willingness.
What are common defenses to this charge?
Potential defenses include mistaken identity, false allegations (often arising from contentious custody disputes), lack of evidence proving sexual contact, challenging the validity of the child’s interview, or arguing that the accused was not in a true custodial role. A skilled child sex offense defense lawyer in Hunterdon County will investigate all angles.
Is parole supervision for life mandatory?
Yes. A conviction under this statute requires a sentence of parole supervision for life (PSL), which imposes strict, lifelong conditions on where you can live, work, and travel, with constant monitoring by a parole officer.
Should I speak to the police if they want to interview me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer any questions without your lawyer present. Anything you say can be misconstrued and used against you. Contact a custodian indecent liberties lawyer in Hunterdon County as early as possible.
New Jersey law governs this practice area.
Your case in Hunterdon County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Hunterdon County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Hunterdon Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 65 Park Avenue, Flemington, NJ 08822, telephone (908) 824-9750, 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 N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (aggravated sexual assault) within the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Hunterdon 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: Hunterdon County NJ lawyers directory · Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child Lawyer Bergen County · Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child Lawyer Hudson County · Taking Indecent Liberties with a Lawyer Monmouth County.