Sex Crimes Attorney in Hackensack, NJ

Being accused of a sex-related crime can change your life in an instant. A sex crime conviction will affect you for the rest of your life, which is why it is imperative to take immediate action when facing sex crime charges in New Jersey. You still have a chance to fight the charges with the help of a skilled and aggressive defense attorney on your side.

If you or your loved one has been accused of committing a sex crime, contact an experienced and results-driven criminal defense attorney at William J. Quirk, Esq., LLC. William Quirk is dedicated to advocating for the rights of people facing sex crime charges in Hackensack, New Jersey, as well as Paterson, Clifton, and West New York areas.

Types of Sex-Related Crimes in New Jersey

Under New Jersey law, the term “sex crime” refers to any criminal offense involving illegal sexual activity such as sexual assault, rape, indecent exposure, lewdness, molestation, and pornography. Common types of sex crimes in New Jersey include:

• Lewdness

• Internet sex crime

• Sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault

• Statutory rape

• Criminal sexual contact

• Endangering the welfare of children

• Child molestation

• Child pornography

• Prostitution

• Sexual abuse

• Harassment

No matter what charges you are facing, remember that you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, it is critical to start working on your defense strategy right away.

Possible Penalties for Sex Crimes in New Jersey

Depending on the type of sex crime a defendant was charged with, possible penalties could include lengthy imprisonment and fines.

One of the most overlooked penalties for sex crimes is the requirement to register as a sex offender. The Megan's Law registry for sex offenders was created due to a tragic incident in the State of New Jersey. This registry became a model for similar programs throughout our nation. Sex offender registration will significantly impact the way you live for the rest of your life. You will be subject to decades of registration and monitoring, and any violations can place you into jail or prison. If you are facing sex crime accusations, it does not necessarily mean that you will be convicted. You must fight against the charges with the help of a knowledgeable sex crime defense lawyer in Hackensack, New Jersey.

Possible Defenses When Facing Sex Crime Accusations

Depending on the circumstances of the alleged criminal offense and the facts involved in your case, an attorney may be able to assert one of the following defenses to help you avoid a conviction or reduce the charges:

• The sexual activity was consensual

• The defendant is falsely accused of the sex crime

• The defendant did not use physical force or coercion

• The defendant’s constitutional rights were violated

• The defendant was not the one who committed the alleged offense

• There is not sufficient evidence to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt

Today, there are many advances in technology that have made defending a sex crimes case more complicated. It is essential you find an attorney versed in the present and future of defense techniques.

An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you review your particular situation and determine the most effective approach to defend you in your specific case.

Steps to Take After a Sex Crime Accusation

Often, the steps you take after being accused of committing a sex crime can have a major impact on the outcome of your case. Consider taking the following steps to fight the charges against you:

1. Do not say anything to the police before you consult with an attorney; the Fifth Amendment guarantees your right to remain silent.

2. Contact an attorney to represent you immediately.

3. Collect any available evidence that would help in proving your innocence.

4. Compile a list of witnesses and persons who can attest to your character.

5. Do not confront the person who accused you; there is likely an order preventing you from contact with that person, and if you violate this, you will have another criminal charge issued to you.

Contacting a criminal defense attorney is a crucial step when facing sex crime accusations because your attorney will seek to:

• Help you understand your rights

• Develop an effective defense strategy for your particular case

• Investigate the allegations against you

• Find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case

• Negotiate plea agreements

• Fight for your best interests in court

A sex crime conviction can ruin your future. It can haunt you and your family members for the rest of your life. Consider speaking with William Quirk, a sex crimes attorney in Hackensack, to start building your defense as soon as possible.