In Somerset County, child trafficking is a first-degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8, carrying 10-20 years in state prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, leads your defense at the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage.
Child Trafficking Lawyer Somerset County, New Jersey — What Are Your Legal Options?
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Child trafficking under New Jersey law is defined as the recruitment, transportation, harboring, or receipt of a child under 18 for the purpose of sexual exploitation or forced labor. This offense is codified under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8, which classifies it as a first-degree crime. The statute covers both sex trafficking and labor trafficking of minors. Conviction carries severe penalties, including mandatory state prison time and lifetime sex offender registration under Megan’s Law (N.J.S.A. 2C:7-2).
For the full text of the child trafficking statute, see N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and rules, visit the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage official website.
- Step 1: Secure Legal Counsel Immediately. Contact a Child Trafficking Lawyer Somerset County before speaking to law enforcement. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Step 2: Assert Your Right to Remain Silent. Do not provide any statements without your attorney present. The investigation often involves the FBI, HSI, and local task forces.
- Step 3: Review the Discovery. Your attorney will obtain all evidence, including witness statements, digital records, and forensic reports from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office.
- Step 4: File Pretrial Motions. Your lawyer may challenge the legality of the arrest, search warrants, or the sufficiency of the evidence before trial.
- Step 5: Negotiate or Prepare for Trial. Depending on the evidence, your attorney may negotiate a plea agreement or prepare a defense for trial at the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage.
- Step 6: Address Registration Requirements. If convicted, you face mandatory Megan’s Law registration. Your attorney can advise on post-conviction relief options.
In Somerset County, child trafficking is a first-degree crime carrying 10-20 years in state prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Trafficking (N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8) | First-Degree Crime | 10-20 years state prison | Up to $200,000 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Megan’s Law registration; parole supervision for life |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. These results include dismissals, acquittals, and charge reductions in serious criminal matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Somerset County Location: Our New Jersey location serves clients at Somerset County courts. The office is accessible via I-287, Route 22, Route 206, and Route 28.
Child Trafficking Lawyer Near Me Somerset County: If you are searching for an affordable child trafficking lawyer Somerset County, we are here to help.
Neighborhoods Served: Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, Bedminster.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003. Meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
What is the difference between child trafficking and child sexual abuse in New Jersey?
Yes. Child trafficking under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8 involves the recruitment or transportation of a child for exploitation. Child sexual abuse under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 involves direct sexual contact. Trafficking is a first-degree crime; abuse can be first or second degree depending on the child’s age.
Can I be released on bail for a child trafficking charge in Somerset County?
No. New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017. Pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA). For child trafficking charges, the PSA typically recommends detention due to high flight risk and danger to the community.
How long does a child trafficking case take in Somerset County?
It depends. Indictment must occur within 90 days if you are detained. Trial typically takes 3-12 months. Complex cases involving multiple defendants or digital evidence may take 18 months or longer.
What is Megan’s Law registration for child trafficking in New Jersey?
Yes. A child trafficking conviction under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8 requires lifetime registration under Megan’s Law (N.J.S.A. 2C:7-2). You must register with local law enforcement and your information is made public online.
Can a child trafficking charge be reduced or dismissed in Somerset County?
It depends. If the evidence shows no exploitation occurred, or if there are procedural errors in the investigation, your attorney may file a motion to dismiss. Plea negotiations may result in a reduction to a lesser charge.
What should I do if I am being investigated for child trafficking in Somerset County?
Yes. Contact a Child Trafficking Lawyer Somerset County immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present. Preserve any evidence that may support your defense. The investigation often involves multiple agencies including the FBI and HSI.
Related Pages:
- New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Hunterdon County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Morris County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- DUI/DWI Lawyer Somerset County
- Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Somerset County
- New Jersey Office Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.