What is Sexual Assault?
The crime of rape is classified as sexual assault in the State of New Jersey. The charge can be elevated to aggravated sexual assault in specific circumstances, such as when the victim is a child or when a weapon is used during the commission of the crime. If you’re facing a sexual assault charge, an experienced NJ sexual battery defense attorney can help.
Sexual Assault
A criminal charge of sexual assault requires sexual penetration or sexual contact with someone under the age of 13 when the actor is more than 4 years older. Battery refers to the unlawful use of direct or indirect force that either causes bodily injury or is perceived as offensive, and assault refers to an attempt or threat of assault. When an individual is at least four years older than a victim who is not yet 13 years old and engages in an act of sexual contact, it can result in a charge of aggravated sexual assault.
The charge of sexual assault can also apply when the accused uses coercive acts, physical force, or acts without the victim’s freely given consent to engage in sexual activity that doesn’t seriously injure them. Other factors, such as the following, can also elevate a sexual act to the level of aggravated sexual assault:
- The victim is less than 13 years old
- The victim is at least 13 but less than 16, and the actor is related to the victim by blood
- The actor has supervisory power over the victim
- The actor commits the sexual assault while committing a violent crime
- The actor is armed with a deadly weapon
- The victim is physically or intellectually incapacitated
These circumstances elevate the crime to a first degree offense. In addition, if there is sexual penetration with a child under the age of 13, the punishment is set at 25 years to life. It is very important to hire the best attorney for these serious charges. The effect on your life can be devastating, and Ms. Cohen, has successfully defended against these offenses.
Sentencing
A conviction for a sexual assault charge carries a prison sentence of at least 5 years. Further, those convicted must register as sexual offenders for life and be on parole for life.
Reach Out to an Experienced Camden County Sexual Assault Attorney Today
Jill Cohen at The Law Office of Jill R. Cohen is an accomplished attorney covering courts throughout South Jersey. She has defended over a hundred cases involving charges of sexual assault and aggravated assault. Contact an attorney who is uniquely qualified to zealously advocate for your case’s best possible resolution. We are on your side and here to help, so please don’t delay contacting us online or calling 856-830-6433 for more information today.
