Freehold Sex Crime Lawyer

Freehold Sex Crime Attorney

The stakes in a sex crime case are high. Allegations of sexual misconduct can destroy your reputation, hurt your family, and lead to life-altering consequences. A conviction could lead to serious prison time without parole and mandatory registration as a sex offender. A Freehold sex crime lawyer from Michael Rosas Law PC can help you create a compelling defense strategy that protects your rights and future.

Types of Sex Crimes

Sex crimes can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies. The team at Michael Rosas Law PC provides skilled legal representation for myriad sex offense allegations. Some of these offenses include:

• Sexual assault. Sexual assault in New Jersey involves non-consensual sexual contact. It can be charged as either a first- or second-degree crime, but it depends on the circumstances. Convictions can result in years or decades in prison.
• Criminal sexual contact. This charge includes unwanted sexual touching and can arise in a variety of scenarios, including misunderstandings or false accusations. Penalties include jail time, fines, and registration as a sex offender.
• Endangering the welfare of a child. A charge of this nature could include accusations of sexual conduct with a minor or allowing a child to be exposed to sexual materials or activities. Courts may overlap charges with sexual assault or possession of child pornography, which increases the severity of the penalties.
• Possession or distribution of child pornography. Possessing illicit images of minors is a felony offense in New Jersey. Distribution or manufacturing can result in longer prison terms.
• Internet sex crimes. These can include online solicitation of a minor, sexting offenses involving minors, and possession or sharing of illicit digital material. It also covers undercover sting operations.
• Rape and aggravated sexual assault. When force, weapons, or any serious injury is involved, or if the victim was particularly vulnerable, the charges can increase. These cases carry some of the harshest sentencing, including mandatory prison sentences and parole ineligibility.
• Statutory rape or age of consent violations. The legal age of consent in New Jersey is 16. Exceptions may apply based on the age difference and relationship between the parties. Even if the act was consensual, a person may face charges if one party is underage.
• False allegations and misidentification. On occasion, sexual misconduct allegations may be false due to revenge or misunderstandings. These cases require thorough investigation, credibility assessments, and the strategic use of evidence.

The State of New Jersey reported 1,206 rape charges in 2020, with 71 of these falling under the category of attempted rape. Around 30% of women and men have experienced rape, physical violence, or stalking from an intimate partner.

Penalties for Sex Crimes in New Jersey

Sex crimes convictions can result in harsh penalties. These include:

• State prison sentences
• Sex offender registration
• Community supervision for life
• Parole supervision for life

In addition, having a sexual offense on your record can damage your reputation and impact future career, licensing, and housing opportunities. The team at Michael Rosas Law PC understands how these consequences can affect every aspect of your life. We’re determined to minimize or eliminate charges when possible.

Common Defense Strategies for Sex Crimes Charges

When facing sex crime charges, a strong defense is crucial. The optimal strategy depends on the facts of the case, but some common defense strategies include:

• Consent. Arguing that the sexual activity was voluntary and mutual
• Mistaken identity. Claiming the accused was not the perpetrator and was wrongly identified
• False accusation. Asserting that the accuser is lying due to motives like revenge or embarrassment
• Alibi. Providing credible evidence that the defendant was elsewhere at the time of the offense
• Lack of evidence. Demonstrating that the prosecution failed to present reliable proof beyond a reasonable doubt
• Forensic evidence collection. Questioning the accuracy or handling of DNA and medical reports
• Improper police conduct. Arguing that law enforcement violated rights during the investigation.

Michael Rosas Law PC thoroughly investigates the case details to tailor a unique defense strategy that protects your rights and freedoms. We have helped many clients from Freehold and the surrounding area in situations similar to yours, and are ready to assist you, too.

FAQs

Q: How To Beat a Sex Offender Charge?

A: Beating a sex offender charge requires a strong defense strategy and experienced legal representation. You’ll need to challenge the evidence, question the credibility of the witnesses, and prove consent where applicable. A skilled Freehold criminal defense lawyer may argue a case of mistaken identity, false accusations, or lack of intent. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and a skilled lawyer will create reasonable doubt.

Q: What Are the Two Categories of Sex Offenses?

A: The two categories of sex offenses are contact and non-contact offenses. Contact offenses involve physical interaction with the victim. This includes rape, sexual assault, or child molestation. These are often considered more severe due to the direct physical harm or trauma caused by the accused. Non-contact offenses include crimes of indecent exposure, possession of child pornography, and online solicitation.

Q: Can a Registered Sex Offender Be a Lawyer?

A: Yes, but it depends on the circumstances and jurisdiction. All lawyers must meet educational and bar exam requirements. Bar admission boards conduct background checks. If a sex offense, especially a felony charge, appears on your record, it could give the board pause on approving you. If you believe your registration to be in error, contact the Division of State Police Identification & Information Technology Section at 609-882-2000.

Q: How Are Sex Crimes Investigated?

A: Sex crimes investigations begin with a report from the victim. Then, law enforcement conducts interviews, collects physical evidence, such as DNA samples, and obtains medical examinations. They also review digital communications and any available surveillance footage. Investigators often seek search warrants to access personal devices and locations. Prosecutors decide whether to press charges based on gathered evidence.

Contact a Freehold Sex Crime Lawyer

When you’re facing sex crime charges in the Freehold area, you can’t afford to wait. You need the help of an experienced Freehold sex crime lawyer. The team at Michael Rosas Law PC can help you fight these charges, building a strong defense strategy that protects your rights and future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.