Sexual Assault
Princeton Sexual Assault Attorney
Under New Jersey law, the term “sexual assault” covers offenses that are commonly referred to as rape and statutory rape. The crime of sexual assault is very serious, and the consequences for a conviction of sexual assault can have a substantial impact on your life. If you are faced with sexual assault charges in Trenton, Ewing, East Windsor, Princeton, Lawrenceville, or any town in Mercer County, you need to make sure that you retain an attorney who has handled many sexual assault and sex-related crimes to zealously represent you. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have the experience and know-how to handle your case and can provide you with a strategy for an effective legal defense. Speak to an attorney today. Call (609) 683-8102 for an initial consultation that is no cost to you.
Sexual Assault Offense in Mercer County
In order to understand the nature of a sexual assault charge, it is important to know the definition of the term “sexual penetration.” Sexual penetration means vaginal intercourse, oral or anal intercourse, or insertion of a finger or other object into the anus or vagina of a person. The amount of insertion, however slight, constitutes penetration.
Elements of Sexual Assault
Under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(c), a person is guilty of sexual assault if he commits an act of sexual penetration with another person, and one of the following circumstances is present:
- Force or coercion: The actor used force or coercion, and the victim did not sustain severe personal injury.
- Victim under supervision: The victim is on probation or parole, or is detained in a hospital, prison or other institution; and the actor has supervisory or disciplinary power over the victim by virtue of the actor’s legal, professional or occupational status.
- Victim between 16 and 18 years old. The victim is at least 16 but less than 18 years old, and the actor (i) is related to the victim by blood; (ii) has supervisory or disciplinary power over the victim; or (iii) is a caregiver or guardian of the victim.
- Victim between 13 and 16 years old. The victim is at least 13 but less than 16 years old, and the actor is at least 4 years older than the victim.
Sexual Contact With Someone Under 13 Years old
It is also considered sexual assault, under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(b), if a person commits an act of sexual contact with a victim who is less than 13 years old, and the actor is at least four years older than the victim. It is important to note that only sexual contact, not sexual penetration, is required for this type of sexual assault. “Sexual contact” means touching, directly or through clothing, the intimate parts (e.g., sexual organs, genital area) of a person.
Penalties for Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is second-degree crime. The penalty for a second-degree crime is 5 to 10 years imprisonment and a fine up to $150,000. In addition, a conviction for sexual assault may include registration requirements under Megan’s Law, which could last well beyond other punishments imposed for the offense.
Ewing Sexual Assault Lawyer
If you have been accused of sexual assault, you need to make sure you have expert representation. The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, serving West Windsor, Pennington, Hamilton, Hopewell Township and Robbinsville, have a team of defense attorneys with extensive experience handling sexual assault matters. The lawyers at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall can provide you with a strong defense and will work to downgrade any charges so you can avoid the most severe consequences. Call (609) 683-8102 today and have a free consultation with a skilled lawyer.