Facing Sexual Assault Charges in Union County, NJ? Your Defense and Future Matter. Brett M. Rosen, Esq. is Here for You.
Sexual Assault Lawyer Union County, NJ
Have you been accused of sexual assault in Union County, New Jersey? Whether you are facing charges or are the subject of an investigation, this is a deeply serious and sensitive matter with potentially devastating consequences. Your reputation, freedom, and future are at stake. You need a skilled and compassionate legal advocate who understands the complexities of sexual assault law, the nuances of the legal process, and who will fiercely defend your rights.
Brett M. Rosen, Esq., is a leading criminal defense law firm with an unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of the accused. We have extensive experience handling sexual assault cases in Union County, providing clients with aggressive representation, compassionate support, and personalized legal strategies. Contact our office today for a free consultation at 908-312-0368 or by email at brett@nynjcriminalcivilesq.com.
Understanding Sexual Assault in New Jersey
Sexual assault is a broad term encompassing various offenses, including:
- Rape: Engaging in sexual intercourse with another person without their consent.
- Aggravated Sexual Assault: A more serious form of sexual assault involving aggravating factors like the use of a weapon, serious injury to the victim, or the victim being a minor.
- Sexual Assault by Contact: Touching another person’s intimate parts for sexual gratification or arousal without their consent.
- Criminal Sexual Contact: Intentional touching of another person’s intimate parts for the purpose of degrading or humiliating them or sexually arousing or gratifying oneself.
- Child Sexual Abuse: Any sexual activity with a minor, including sexual contact, intercourse, or exploitation.
The Stakes are High: Penalties for Sexual Assault in New Jersey
New Jersey has stringent laws in place to address sexual assault crimes. The penalties are severe and can include:
- Lengthy Prison Sentences: Sexual assault convictions carry significant prison sentences, ranging from several years to life imprisonment, depending on the nature of the offense and any aggravating factors.
- Mandatory Sex Offender Registration (Megan’s Law): Convicted sex offenders must register with the state and may be subject to community notification.
- Parole Supervision for Life (PSL): In some cases, offenders may be subject to parole supervision for life, even after completing their prison sentence.
- Financial Penalties: Fines can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Restitution: Offenders may be ordered to pay restitution to the victim for medical expenses, counseling, and other costs associated with the assault.
- Collateral Consequences: Beyond legal penalties, a sexual assault conviction can have devastating consequences on your personal life, career, and relationships.
Rape Defense Attorney Union County NJ
New Jersey takes sexual assault very seriously. One of the statutes addressing this crime is N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(c). This law is complex, covering various scenarios where sexual penetration without consent constitutes sexual assault.
What Does N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(c) Cover?
This law defines specific circumstances under which an act of sexual penetration becomes a crime of sexual assault. It focuses on situations where the victim is considered vulnerable or unable to provide valid consent due to various factors. Here’s a breakdown of the situations outlined in this statute:
1. Use of Force or Coercion Without Severe Injury:
- The perpetrator uses physical force or coercion to engage in sexual penetration.
- The victim does not suffer severe personal injury.
2. Victim on Probation, Parole, or Detained:
- The victim is under probation, parole, or detained in a hospital, prison, or other institution.
- The perpetrator has supervisory or disciplinary power over the victim due to their legal, professional, or occupational status.
3. Victim is a Minor (16-17 Years Old) and the Perpetrator:
- Is related to the victim by blood or affinity to the third degree (e.g., aunt, uncle, first cousin).
- Has supervisory or disciplinary power over the victim in any capacity.
- Is a resource family parent, guardian, or stands in loco parentis (in place of a parent) within the household.
4. Victim is a Minor (13-15 Years Old) and Perpetrator is Significantly Older:
- The victim is at least 13 but less than 16 years old.
- The perpetrator is at least four years older than the victim.
Why is N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(c) Important?
This statute recognizes that sexual assault can occur in various power dynamics and situations where consent is not freely given. It aims to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable, even in cases where physical force may not be present.
Penalties:
- Sexual assault under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(c) is typically a second-degree crime, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison and significant fines.
- If the victim is under 13 years old and the perpetrator is at least four years older, it is aggravated sexual assault, a first-degree crime with a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
How Brett M. Rosen, Esq. Can Defend You Against Sexual Assault Charges
Facing a sexual assault charge can be an isolating and overwhelming experience. Our firm is here to provide the support, guidance, and aggressive defense you need to navigate this difficult situation. We will:
- Thoroughly Investigate the Allegations: We will conduct a meticulous and independent investigation of the allegations against you. This may involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, analyzing forensic evidence, and uncovering any inconsistencies or biases in the accuser’s statements.
- Challenge the Prosecution’s Case: We will rigorously scrutinize the evidence against you, cross-examine witnesses, and raise doubts about the credibility and reliability of the prosecution’s case. We will look for any exculpatory evidence or alternative explanations that could cast doubt on the accusations.
- Explore All Potential Defenses: We will tailor a defense strategy to your unique circumstances, exploring all available legal options. This may include defenses such as:
- Consent: We may argue that the alleged victim willingly participated in the sexual activity.
- False Accusation: We may investigate if the accusations are motivated by revenge, jealousy, or other ulterior motives.
- Insufficient Evidence: If the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, we can argue for dismissal of the case.
- Mistaken Identity: We may challenge the identification of you as the perpetrator.
- Procedural Errors: We will examine the police investigation and legal proceedings for any errors or misconduct that could lead to evidence being suppressed or the case dismissed.
- Negotiate with Prosecutors: If appropriate, we will negotiate with the prosecution to seek reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or dismissal of the case.
- Provide Zealous Courtroom Representation: If your case goes to trial, you can trust Brett M. Rosen, Esq. to provide unwavering representation in court. We will fight for your rights, present a compelling defense, and ensure your voice is heard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Assault Charges in Union County
- What should I do if I am accused of sexual assault?
The most important thing is to remain silent and immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Do not discuss the case with anyone without legal counsel present. - Can I get a sexual assault charge expunged from my record in New Jersey? In general, sexual assault convictions are not eligible for expungement in New Jersey. However, there may be some exceptions for certain juvenile offenses or specific circumstances. Consult with an attorney to discuss your options.
- Will a sexual assault conviction affect my employment? A sexual assault conviction can have devastating consequences on your employment prospects. It may lead to termination from your current job and make it difficult to find future employment, especially in fields requiring background checks or working with vulnerable populations.
- What is the difference between sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault in New Jersey? Aggravated sexual assault is a more serious offense than sexual assault. It involves aggravating factors like the use of a weapon, causing serious bodily injury, or the victim being a minor under 13 years old. Aggravated sexual assault carries harsher penalties than sexual assault.
- What is Megan’s Law in New Jersey? Megan’s Law requires convicted sex offenders to register with the state and may require community notification. The level of notification depends on the offender’s risk level.
FAQs Continued
- What is Parole Supervision for Life (PSL)? PSL is a form of parole that can be imposed on certain sex offenders after they have completed their prison sentence. It involves intensive supervision and monitoring for the rest of the offender’s life.
- What are the consequences of a sexual assault conviction on my immigration status? If you are not a U.S. citizen, a sexual assault conviction can lead to deportation or denial of naturalization.
- What if I am falsely accused of sexual assault? False accusations of sexual assault are devastating and can have long-lasting consequences. If you are falsely accused, an experienced attorney can help you build a strong defense, challenge the accuser’s credibility, and clear your name.
- How much will it cost to hire a sexual assault lawyer in Union County? Legal fees for sexual assault cases vary depending on the complexity of the case, the experience of the attorney, and the length of representation. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide a fee estimate.
- What are the best defenses against sexual assault charges in New Jersey? The best defense depends on the specific facts of your case. Common defenses include consent, false accusations, insufficient evidence, mistaken identity, and procedural errors.
- What is the role of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit? The Special Victims Unit (SVU) of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office handles investigations and prosecutions of sexual assault and other crimes against vulnerable victims, including children and domestic violence survivors.
Sex Crimes Attorney Union County, NJ
If you are facing sexual assault charges or an investigation in Union County, New Jersey, don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from seeking the legal representation you need. Brett M. Rosen, Esq. is here to provide you with compassionate support, experienced guidance, and aggressive advocacy throughout the entire legal process. Retaining Brett M. Rosen, a celebrated criminal defense attorney in New Jersey, for a sexual assault charge in Union County is a wise choice for several compelling reasons:
Legal Expertise: Brett Rosen is a first-generation lawyer with an impressive record. His unwavering belief in justice and dedication to criminal law make him an excellent choice for defending against serious charges like sexual assault.
Passionate Advocacy: Rosen actively seeks to raise awareness and advocate for human rights. His commitment to justice extends beyond material success, making him a beacon of dedicated ardor in law.
Successful Track Record: In a high-stakes trial, Rosen defended a karate instructor accused of sexual assault. Through meticulous cross-examination and storytelling, he secured a not-guilty verdict on all charges after an intense eight-hour jury deliberation.
Certification: Importantly, Brett Rosen is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a criminal trial attorney, demonstrating his expertise and qualifications.
In summary, retaining Brett M. Rosen combines legal prowess, passionate advocacy, and a successful track record, making him an excellent choice for defending against sexual assault charges in Union County, NJ. He understands the complexities of sexual assault cases and the impact they can have on your life. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights, protecting your reputation, and securing the best possible outcome for your case.
Call us today at 908-312-0368 or email us at brett@nynjcriminalcivilesq.com for a free and confidential consultation.