New Jersey Luring a Minor Defense Lawyers

At the Law Office of Jason A. Volet, we understand the severity and complexity of charges related to luring a minor. With a skilled New Jersey luring defense lawyer with nearly 20 years of experience on over 4,000 cases, our dedicated team is committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. We can guide you through this difficult time and provide the solid defense you need.

What Is New Jersey’s Law Regarding the Luring of a Minor?

Luring a minor is a serious sex crime in New Jersey. The statute defines luring as any attempt to entice or persuade a child (or someone believed to be a child) into a motor vehicle, structure, isolated area, or any other place to commit a criminal offense.

The law applies not only to actual minors but also to situations where the accused believed they were communicating with a minor, even if it was an undercover officer. This means that sting operations and online interactions can lead to luring charges, even if no actual minor was involved.

The law covers various methods of communication, including in-person interactions, phone calls, text messages, emails, and communications through social media platforms. Any attempt to arrange a meeting or entice a minor through these means can potentially lead to luring charges.

How Does a Prosecutor Prove Luring a Minor Charges?

To secure a conviction for luring a minor in New Jersey, prosecutors must prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• The individual was under 18, or the defendant believed the individual to be under 18.
• The defendant attempted to lure or entice the child (or someone they believed to be a child).
• They intended to lure the child into a motor vehicle, structure, or isolated area or to meet at or go to any other place.
• The defendant intended to commit a criminal offense with or against the child.

Prosecutors may present various forms of evidence to support these charges, including:

• Electronic communications (texts, emails, social media messages, etc.)
• Recorded phone calls
• Testimony from the alleged victim or undercover officers
• Witness statements
• Physical evidence found during searches

The prosecution doesn’t need to prove that any physical contact or actual harm occurred. The attempt to lure is enough for charges to be filed.

What Are Possible Defenses Against a Luring a Minor Offense?

The experienced lawyers at the Law Office of Jason A. Volet explore every possible avenue to build a strong defense for our clients. Some potential defenses against luring charges include:

• Lack of intent: Demonstrating that the defendant had no intention to commit a criminal offense with the minor
• Mistaken identity: Proving that the defendant was not the person who engaged in the alleged communication or luring attempt
• Age misrepresentation: Showing that the defendant reasonably believed the individual was over 18 based on the information provided
• Entrapment: Arguing that law enforcement induced the defendant to commit a crime they were not predisposed to commit
• Constitutional violations: Challenging the legality of searches, seizures, or interrogations that may have violated the defendant’s rights
• Insufficient evidence: Arguing that the prosecution’s evidence fails to meet the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt
• Alibi: Providing evidence that the defendant was somewhere else during the alleged offense

The most effective defense strategy will depend on the specific circumstances and evidence involved in the case. Our skilled team will carefully review your case to determine the best approach for your situation.

What Are the Possible Penalties for Luring a Child in New Jersey?

Luring a minor is considered a second-degree crime in New Jersey, which carries severe penalties upon conviction. The potential consequences include:

• 5 to 10 years in state prison
• Fines of up to $150,000
• Mandatory registration as a sex offender under Megan’s Law
• Routine monitoring by local law enforcement for at least 15 years
• Supervised release or parole for life

Additionally, a conviction for luring a minor can have long-lasting effects on various aspects of your life, including:

• Employment opportunities
• Housing options
• Child custody and visitation rights
• Professional licenses
• Immigration status
• Personal relationships and social stigma

Given the severity of these penalties and their far-reaching impact, having an experienced New Jersey criminal defense lawyer on your side is vital to protect your rights and future.

Could Someone Convicted of Luring a Minor Be Eligible for Pre-Trial Intervention?

Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is a diversionary program in New Jersey that allows eligible first-time offenders to avoid traditional prosecution. However, due to the serious nature of luring a minor charges, individuals accused of this offense are generally not eligible for PTI.

In rare cases, the court might make exceptions if there are extraordinary and compelling circumstances. The court evaluates these situations on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as:

• The defendant’s background and lack of criminal history
• The specific details of the alleged offense
• The prosecutor’s willingness to consider PTI
• The potential for rehabilitation

As your New Jersey luring a minor defense team, we would explore all options to seek the best possible outcome for your case.

Can a Luring Offense Be Expunged?

Expungement clears a criminal record, effectively removing it from public view. Unfortunately, convictions for luring a minor are generally not eligible for expungement in New Jersey due to the serious nature of the offense and its classification as a sex crime.

However, if the charges were dismissed or you were found not guilty, you may be eligible to have the arrest record expunged. The process and eligibility for expungement can be complex. You should consult an experienced attorney to understand your options.

Contact a New Jersey Luring a Minor Defense Lawyer

If you were charged with luring a minor, you need a dedicated and experienced New Jersey luring a minor defense lawyer on your side. At the Law Office of Jason A. Volet, our team understands how to defend against sex crime charges. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and reputation. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case with our experienced criminal defense team.

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