Online Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Legal Options?
An online solicitation of a minor charge in Somerset County is a second-degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-6, carrying 5-10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, leads your defense. Call (888) 437-7747.
Statutory Definition of Online Solicitation of a Minor in New Jersey
Under New Jersey law, online solicitation of a minor involves using the internet, social media, or electronic communication to solicit or lure a person under 18 for sexual activity. The offense is codified under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-6 (luring or enticing a child) and N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4 (endangering the welfare of a child). These statutes apply to any communication — including text messages, chat rooms, and dating apps — where the defendant knowingly attempts to arrange a meeting for sexual purposes. The state does not require the minor to actually appear; the attempt alone is a crime. Cases are prosecuted in the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage at 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal References
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Somerset County
In Somerset County, online solicitation cases are handled in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court. The court uses a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) to determine pretrial release — not cash bail. New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017.
Prosecutors in the Somerset Vicinage often seek pretrial detention for these charges. Your attorney must act quickly to challenge the PSA score and argue for release conditions.
- Step 1: Contact an attorney immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement without counsel.
- Step 2: Your attorney files a motion for pretrial release and challenges the PSA score.
- Step 3: Discovery begins — the state must provide all electronic evidence, including chat logs and IP records.
- Step 4: Your attorney evaluates defenses: entrapment, lack of intent, or mistaken identity.
- Step 5: If applicable, your attorney negotiates a plea or prepares for trial in the Superior Court.
Penalties for Online Solicitation of a Minor in Somerset County
In Somerset County, online solicitation of a minor is a second-degree crime carrying 5-10 years in prison and up to $150,000 in fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luring/Enticing a Child (2C:13-6) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | None | Sex offender registration (Megan’s Law); parole supervision for life |
| Endangering Welfare of a Child (2C:24-4) | 2nd or 3rd Degree | 3-10 years | Up to $150,000 | None | Sex offender registration; potential loss of custody |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY. These results include dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges in serious criminal matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Somerset County Legal Services
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Somerset County courts. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, Route 206, and Route 28. We serve Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
Looking for an online solicitation of a minor lawyer near me Somerset County? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Solicitation of a Minor in Somerset County
Does New Jersey have cash bail for online solicitation charges?
No. New Jersey abolished cash bail in January 2017 under the Criminal Justice Reform Act. Pretrial release in Somerset County is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) — a computerized risk score, not money. There are no bail bondsmen in NJ.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for online solicitation in Somerset County?
It depends. PTI is a diversionary program for first-time indictable offenders. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision results in complete dismissal of charges. However, sex offenses may have limited eligibility. Applications are processed through the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage.
Can I get my record expunged after an online solicitation charge in NJ?
Yes, but with restrictions. NJ allows expungement after waiting periods: 5 years for indictable crimes. However, certain sex offenses may not be eligible for expungement. PTI completions result in automatic dismissal. Petitions are filed in Somerset County Superior Court.
What is a disorderly persons offense in Somerset County, NJ?
A disorderly persons offense is NJ’s equivalent of a misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail/$1,000 fine. Heard in Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876). Petty disorderly persons: up to 30 days/$500. Indictable crimes (felonies) are heard in Somerset County Superior Court.
How long do I have to register as a sex offender after an online solicitation conviction?
It depends. Under Megan’s Law (N.J.S.A. 2C:7-1), registration is required for life for second-degree crimes. The court determines your tier level (1-3) based on risk assessment. Failure to register is a separate crime. Your attorney can argue for a lower tier at the hearing.
Can I use a computer or smartphone while on pretrial release for online solicitation?
It depends. The court may impose conditions restricting internet access. In Somerset County, prosecutors often request no-contact orders that prohibit all internet use. Your attorney can negotiate limited access for work, school, or essential communication. Violating these conditions can result in revocation of release.
Related Legal Resources
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. 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.