Criminal Sexual Contact

NJ Criminal Sexual Contact Defense Attorneys

Have you or someone you know been charged with a sex crime, including aggravated sexual assault, endangering the welfare of a minor, or criminal sexual contact? Most, if not all of these charges, may invoke Megan’s Law upon conviction. we have been handling these types of charges throughout New Jersey including in Monmouth County Superior Court, Middlesex County Superior Court, Ocean County Superior Court, and Essex County Superior Court for literally decades. Come see us in our Long Branch, New Jersey office for your free, completely confidential consultation. We can be reached anytime, day or night at (732)842-7773.

Criminal Sexual Contact in New Jersey: N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3

In New Jersey, the statute which governs charges for criminal sexual contact is N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3 which provides:

§ 2C:14-3. Aggravated criminal sexual contact; criminal sexual contact

a. An actor is guilty of aggravated criminal sexual contact if he commits an act of sexual contact with the victim under any of the circumstances set forth in 2C:14-2 a.(2) through (7).

Aggravated criminal sexual contact is a crime of the third degree.

b. An actor is guilty of criminal sexual contact if he commits an act of sexual contact with the victim under any of the circumstances set forth in section 2C:14-2 c.(1) through (4).

Criminal sexual contact is a crime of the fourth degree.

Explanation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3

This statute is difficult to understand on it’s face as the terms are not well defined. Instead, it refers to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2, which is the statute governing sexual assault in New Jersey. Essentially, criminal sexual contact is a downgraded offense (or lower charge) from sexual assault. If the State is unable to prove the necessary elements of the more serious crimes of aggravated sexual assault or sexual assault under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (such as penetration), the State will often use criminal sexual contact as an alternative charge.

We Handle All Types of Criminal Charges

Criminal charges can be brought in either the Municipal or Superior court. The more severe the criminal charges the more likely they are to be handled in Superior Court, while minor charges are typically resolved in Municipal Court. We have a well deserved reputation for being the best in both arenas.

The severity of your charges is a determination made by the State and is usually based on a variety of factors. Penalties will vary based on the degree of the crime and whether or not there was a criminal conspiracy involved.

Call (732) 842-7773 to speak with one of the Moriartys 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to discuss your charges or you can contact us by e-mail to schedule a free initial consultation.