Sex Crime Attorney in New Jersey

Being accused of a sex crime in New Jersey is something most people never expect to face. The reality is often frightening. What will happen next? Will you have to go to trial? Will you have to register as a sex offender? These cases are serious, and the law surrounding them is complicated. That’s why working with a lawyer who knows New Jersey sex laws and how prosecutors build their cases is important.

William Fay, Esq., is a New Jersey sex crime attorney who brings a unique background to your defense. As a former Deputy Attorney General with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, he spent years investigating and prosecuting cases. That experience means Mr. Fay knows exactly how the other side operates, and he uses that insight to aggressively defend clients. Because he was born and raised in New Jersey, he also understands the courts, the local communities, and how these charges impact every part of your life.

Mr. Fay has a reputation for being determined in the courtroom and compassionate when guiding clients through stressful times. If you need a reliable New Jersey sex crime lawyer who will personally handle your case and guide you through every stage of the process, call William Fay, Esq., today. Free consultations are available by phone or in person, so you can discuss your situation and learn how an experienced sex crime defense attorney can work to protect your rights.

Why Hire William Fay for Your Defense of Sex Crime Charges in New Jersey?

A born-and-bred New Jersey resident, Mr. Fay has investigated, prosecuted, and defended countless criminal cases. He believes every case is unique. When you work with our firm, he will carefully examine all available evidence and develop strategies tailored to your unique case.

Mr. Fay takes a hands-on approach to every case, handling it himself rather than passing it off to a junior associate. Clients have access to his direct cell phone number, allowing him to keep you updated at every stage.

Our firm is client-focused and result-driven: providing aggressive, professional advocacy in the courtroom, paired with reliable support outside of it. When you work with Mr. Fay, you’ll get an advocate who is dedicated to bringing you the best result possible throughout your case.

Reach out to us today for your free, confidential case review.

Why Do You Need a Lawyer for Sex Crime Matters?

Sex crime convictions can lead to some of the harshest penalties possible. Convictions often include prison time and registration on the New Jersey sex offender registry. Once you’re on the registry, the restrictions can impact where you live, work, and travel, as well as your reputation in the community.

Without a strong defense, prosecutors control the narrative. Sex crime laws can be complex, with definitions that leave room for legal arguments. A sex crime defense attorney helps level the playing field and makes sure your rights are protected throughout your entire case.

Your lawyer’s job is to challenge whether a prosecutor can prove each element of the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. This often begins with an independent investigation, where your lawyer seeks potentially exculpatory evidence. Mr. Fay may file motions to suppress evidence, which can weaken the case enough to get a favorable plea deal. If the case goes to trial, he’ll cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, work with experts when necessary, and present a compelling argument on your behalf.

Sex crime cases have high stakes, and leaving your defense to chance can be life-altering. Contact William Fay, Esq., to find out how a reputable sex crime attorney in New Jersey can build a strong defense to your charges.

What Types of Sex Crime Cases Does William Fay Handle?

Mr. Fay defends a wide range of sex crime cases. He has the knowledge to challenge charges at every level, whether minor misdemeanors or serious, complex felonies. Some of the most common sex crime cases our firm handles include the following:

• Aggravated Sexual Assault – Aggravated sexual assault includes sexual penetration with aggravating factors like using a weapon, causing severe injury, or when the victim is under 13. This is a first-degree crime, carrying penalties of up to 20 years in prison.
• Sexual Assault – Sexual assault includes sexual penetration with force, coercion, or when the victim is between 13 and 16 and the accused is at least four years older. It is a second-degree crime punishable by five to 10 years in prison.
• Sexual Battery or Criminal Sexual Contact –Sexual battery is often referred to as “criminal sexual contact.” It involves intentional sexual touching without penetration. The penalties depend on the specific circumstances, and charges range from fourth-degree to third-degree crimes.
• Endangering the Welfare of a Child – This statute covers causing harm to a minor through sexual conduct or other endangering behavior. Depending on the facts, it can be charged as a first-, second-, or third-degree crime.
• Child Pornography – New Jersey criminalizes possessing, distributing, or producing child pornography. Penalties escalate based on the number of images or the conduct involved, ranging from third- to second-degree crimes.
• Revenge Porn – Revenge porn is the distribution of intimate images without consent. This offense can be charged as a third-degree crime, carrying up to five years in prison.
• Luring – Luring is enticing a child into a vehicle, structure, or isolated area for unlawful purposes. This is a second-degree crime with severe penalties.
• Lewdness – It’s unlawful to expose your intimate parts for sexual gratification in circumstances likely to alarm or offend others. Some convictions require registration under Megan’s Law.
• Indecent Exposure – Indecent exposure is similar to lewdness, but typically involves minors or happens in public.
• Prostitution-Related Offenses – Depending on the facts, prostitution and solicitation cases can be charged as disorderly persons offenses or third-degree crimes.
• Failure to Register as a Sex Offender – Under Megan’s Law, anyone convicted of certain sex crimes must register. Failing to comply is a third-degree crime punishable by three to five years in prison.
• Removal from Megan’s Law – After 15 years without re-offense and a demonstration of being unlikely to pose a threat, it may be possible to be removed from the New Jersey sex offender registry.
• Megan’s Law Tier Classification Hearings – Your sex offender registry tier (I, II, or III) affects how much the public is notified. Mr. Fay represents clients in hearings to challenge proposed tier levels and argue for the lowest tier possible.

If you’re not sure of your charges or whether our firm can handle your case, contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

What Are the Penalties for Sex Crimes in New Jersey?

Sex crime penalties depend on the offense and grading under New Jersey law. Examples include the following:

• First-degree crimes (aggravated sexual assault) are punished by 10 to 20 years in prison and up to $200,000 in fines.
• Second-degree crimes (sexual assault, child pornography distribution) are punished by five to 10 years in prison and up to $150,000 in fines.
• Third-degree crimes (criminal sexual contact, luring) are punished by three to five years in prison and up to $15,000 in fines.
• Fourth-degree crimes (certain lewdness charges) are punished by up to 18 months in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.

Many sex crime convictions also require registration under Megan’s Law, with community supervision for life.

What Are Potential Defenses in Sex Crime Cases?

Not every accusation results in a conviction, especially when you have a strong defense. Some of the most common defenses to sex crimes include the following:

• Challenging whether witness testimony is credible and reliable
• Suppressing evidence obtained through illegal searches, seizures, arrests, and interrogations
• Exposing false allegations or mistaken identity
• Presenting alibi or consent defenses, if applicable

Each case requires a tailored approach. Mr. Fay carefully reviews every fact before building a defense. Depending on the facts, your defense could include more than one theory, including defenses not listed above.

Does New Jersey Have Internet Sex Crime Laws?

Yes. New Jersey has several statutes addressing online behavior, including child pornography, luring, and cyber-harassment with sexual content. These cases often involve search warrants for electronic devices and complex evidentiary issues. Mr. Fay knows how to challenge digital evidence and works with forensic experts when necessary to build the strongest possible defense.

What Steps Should You Take If You Have Been Arrested for Alleged Sex Crimes?

The most important thing you can do to protect your rights is to politely refuse to speak to law enforcement without Mr. Fay on your side. Even casual statements can be used against you. Call William Fay, Esq., as soon as possible for experienced legal counsel. The earlier you involve an attorney, the more options you have to challenge charges and negotiate outcomes.

As soon as you know you’re under investigation or have been arrested, avoid contacting the accuser or potential witnesses on your own. Avoid posting on social media or talking about the case with friends, as those statements can also be taken out of context for the prosecution’s case. Always follow your lawyer’s advice to the letter until the case is resolved.

What Should You Know About the New Jersey Sex Offender Registry?

Megan’s Law requires registration for people convicted of certain offenses. The registry has the following tiers based on risk assessment:

• Tier I – Low risk, only law enforcement can view information about the offender
• Tier II – Moderate risk, certain community organizations are notified
• Tier III – High risk, public notification, including online posting

Registration can impact your employment, housing, and community relationships. The good news is that people may qualify for removal after 15 years if they’ve stayed offense-free and are unlikely to pose a threat. Mr. Fay represents clients in both tier hearings and petitions for removal.