International Human Trafficking Lawyer Burlington County, NJ

International human trafficking charges carry severe consequences under both New Jersey and federal law. If you are under investigation or have been arrested in Burlington County, you need experienced legal counsel who understands the multi-jurisdictional nature of these cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals facing international human trafficking allegations in state court at the Superior Court of New Jersey, Burlington Vicinage, in Mount Holly, and in federal court before the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team bring extensive combined legal experience to the defense of complex trafficking matters. Early involvement of defense counsel is critical because international human trafficking investigations often involve multiple agencies, including federal authorities. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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Understanding International Human Trafficking Charges in Burlington County

International human trafficking is prosecuted under New Jersey’s human trafficking statute as well as under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 1591, when the alleged conduct crosses state or national boundaries. In Burlington County, these cases may be brought in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Criminal Division, located at 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly. Federal prosecutions typically proceed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, which has divisions in Camden, Newark, and Trenton. A conviction can result in a lengthy prison term, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Under federal law, a defendant may also face mandatory minimum sentences and the loss of the opportunity for parole. New Jersey’s Criminal Justice Reform Act of 2017 abolished cash bail, meaning pretrial release decisions are based on a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) that evaluates flight risk and danger to the community, not on the ability to pay. Given the gravity of the charges, a detained defendant must be indicted within 90 days, and the case often moves quickly.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Defend International Human Trafficking Cases

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach each international human trafficking case with a thorough review of the evidence and a strategic assessment of the prosecution’s theory. The defense team examines every aspect of the government’s case, including the legality of search warrants, the reliability of witness statements, and the validity of electronic evidence. In federal court, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey often coordinates with agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, building extensive paper trails that must be scrutinized. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands how these investigations are constructed and can identify procedural missteps. The team works toward the most favorable outcome possible, whether that means challenging the sufficiency of the indictment, negotiating a plea to a lesser charge, or taking the case to trial if necessary. Throughout the process, the firm provides clear communication about the legal options and potential consequences.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he brings insight into how law enforcement and prosecutors build trafficking cases. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is joined by a team of Of Counsel attorneys who contribute extensive combined legal experience. Together, they serve clients throughout Burlington County and across New Jersey. Results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes international human trafficking under New Jersey law?

Under New Jersey law, human trafficking includes recruiting, transporting, or harboring a person through force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of labor or commercial sexual activity, when the conduct involves crossing state or national borders. The statute covers both sex trafficking and labor trafficking. When the alleged victim is a minor, the element of force, fraud, or coercion may not be required. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1591 carry additional mandatory minimum sentences and can be brought alongside state charges, creating a dual prosecution risk.

Is international human trafficking prosecuted in state or federal court in Burlington County?

International human trafficking can be prosecuted in either New Jersey Superior Court or the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, depending on the nature of the alleged conduct and which agency leads the investigation. Cases filed in state court are heard at the Burlington Vicinage in Mount Holly. Federal cases typically proceed in the Camden or Newark divisions. A single investigation may result in parallel state and federal charges, requiring a defense team experienced in both forums.

What are the potential penalties for an international human trafficking conviction?

A conviction under New Jersey’s human trafficking statute is a first-degree crime, punishable by a term of imprisonment of up to life, with a presumption of imprisonment and a period of parole ineligibility under the No Early Release Act (NERA). Federal convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences that often exceed 10 years, with the possibility of life imprisonment, substantial fines, and asset forfeiture. Because of the severe consequences, mounting a rigorous defense from the earliest stage is essential.

How does New Jersey’s bail reform affect human trafficking cases?

Under New Jersey’s Criminal Justice Reform Act, cash bail has been abolished, and pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) that measures a defendant’s risk of flight and danger to the community. For serious first-degree charges like human trafficking, the State may file a motion for pretrial detention. A detention hearing must be held promptly, and defense counsel can present evidence and argument to seek release under conditions. This system shifts the focus from financial resources to public safety, but it also means a skilled advocate is critical at the detention stage.

Can charges of international human trafficking be dismissed or reduced?

Yes, human trafficking charges can be dismissed or reduced if the evidence does not support the elements of the offense or if procedural errors undermine the prosecution’s case. An experienced defense attorney will challenge the admissibility of evidence, contest the credibility of witnesses, and explore whether the government overcharged the case. While Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is generally unavailable for first-degree crimes, a negotiated resolution to a lesser offense may be possible in certain circumstances. Each case depends on its unique facts.

How can an attorney help with an international human trafficking investigation?

Engaging an attorney before charges are filed can help protect your rights during the investigation and may prevent an indictment or reduce the severity of later charges. Defense counsel can intervene with investigators, preserve exculpatory evidence, and advise you on how to exercise your right to remain silent. Because trafficking investigations often involve lengthy surveillance and document review, early legal guidance can shape the trajectory of the case. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Official Resources:
New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Courts
U.S. Department of Justice – Human Trafficking

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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.