Child Trafficking Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Child trafficking is a severe indictable crime in New Jersey, prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8 and federal statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 1591, carrying penalties of 20+ years to life. If you are under investigation or charged in Somerset County, you need a dedicated child trafficking lawyer Somerset County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Child Trafficking Law
In New Jersey, child trafficking is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8 as knowingly recruiting, enticing, harboring, transporting, providing, or obtaining a minor (under 18) for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity or causing the minor to engage in sexual activity. This is a first-degree crime, the most serious classification in the state. The law is part of New Jersey’s full human trafficking statutes designed to protect minors from exploitation. The offense is also frequently prosecuted federally as a violation of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA), 18 U.S.C. § 1591, which carries mandatory minimum sentences and severe penalties. A child trafficking lawyer Somerset County must be prepared to handle cases that may be investigated by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), or the New Jersey State Police, and prosecuted in either state or federal court.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s human trafficking laws, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8 (official New Jersey Legislature). Court procedures and filings for Somerset County are handled through the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage website.
Facing Child Trafficking Charges in Somerset County
Child trafficking investigations in Somerset County are complex and aggressive, often involving multiple agencies. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office has a Special Victims Unit that handles these sensitive cases. A key local procedural fact is that New Jersey’s bail reform means pretrial release is determined by a Public Safety Assessment score, not cash bail, making the initial detention hearing critical. For a child trafficking lawyer near me Somerset County, understanding the local prosecutors’ strategies is essential.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: You may first be contacted by law enforcement for an “interview.” Do not speak to them without your attorney present. Contact a lawyer immediately.
- Detention Hearing: If arrested, you will have a detention hearing within 48 hours. Your lawyer will argue for your release based on the PSA risk score, as NJ has no cash bail.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: The case will be presented to a grand jury at the Somerset County Courthouse. An indictment moves the case to Superior Court.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate for a reduced charge or proceed to a jury trial to fight the allegations.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If convicted, your attorney will advocate at sentencing, presenting mitigating factors to argue for the lowest possible sentence.
Potential Penalties for Child Trafficking in NJ
In Somerset County, a conviction for child trafficking as a first-degree crime carries a sentence of 10 to 20 years in New Jersey state prison, with 85% parole ineligibility under the No Early Release Act (NERA), and fines up to $200,000.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Trafficking (State) | 1st Degree Crime | 10-20 years (NERA applies) | Up to $200,000 | Megan’s Law registration (Tier 3), parole supervision for life, forfeiture of assets. |
| Child Trafficking (Federal) | Felony under 18 U.S.C. § 1591 | 15 years to life (mandatory minimums) | Up to $250,000 | Asset forfeiture, mandatory restitution to victims, supervised release for life. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the immense pressure and high stakes of a child trafficking accusation and provide a committed, strategic defense.
Our Approach to Your Case
Our firm-wide experience includes handling 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We apply this depth of knowledge to build a strong defense strategy from the first moment you contact us. We scrutinize every aspect of the investigation, challenge the evidence, and protect your rights at every stage. For an affordable child trafficking lawyer Somerset County, we offer clear fee structures and payment plans because we believe everyone deserves a vigorous defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Child Trafficking Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Child Trafficking Defense FAQs
What is the difference between state and federal child trafficking charges in NJ?
It depends on the investigating agency and case specifics. State charges are under N.J.S.A. 2C:13-8, prosecuted in Somerset County Superior Court. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1591 are filed in U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. Federal penalties are often more severe with mandatory minimums. A case can be prosecuted in both systems.
Does New Jersey have cash bail for child trafficking?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in 2017. Pretrial release for a child trafficking charge in Somerset County is determined by a judge based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score, which considers flight risk and danger to the community. Your lawyer’s arguments at the detention hearing are crucial.
What are possible defenses to a child trafficking accusation?
Defenses can include mistaken identity, lack of knowledge the person was a minor, insufficient evidence of coercion or commercial purpose, entrapment, or violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation. Each case is unique, and a thorough review of all evidence is necessary to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Can I find an affordable child trafficking lawyer Somerset County?
Yes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the financial strain of a legal crisis. We offer transparent fee discussions and can often structure payment plans to make our defense services accessible while providing the experienced, vigorous representation these serious charges demand.
What should I do if I’m contacted by police about a trafficking investigation?
Do not answer questions. Politely state you wish to speak with an attorney and then immediately contact a child trafficking lawyer near me Somerset County. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf to protect your rights from the very start.
Related Legal Services in Somerset County
If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also provides defense for federal crimes, sex crimes, and general criminal defense in Somerset County. For a full overview of our New Jersey practice, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding child trafficking charges.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.