Monmouth County Aggravated Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers

Proudly Defending Clients in Middlesex County and Across New Jersey

Facing charges of aggravated sexual assault is a serious and life-altering legal challenge. Under New Jersey’s criminal code, aggravated sexual assault is categorized as a first-degree crime, making a good lawyer even more important. Law Offices of Carlos Diaz-Cobo has over 18 years of experience serving defendants in Monmouth County, Middlesex County, and throughout the state of New Jersey. 

These cases often involve allegations of sexual contact under circumstances deemed particularly egregious, such as when the victim is a minor, when physical force or threats are used, or when the accused holds a position of authority over the victim, such as a teacher or caregiver. 

Call (848) 207-2709 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.

Penalties for Aggravated Sexual Assault in New Jersey 

A conviction for aggravated sexual assault typically results in a prison sentence of 10 to 20 years. Where the alleged victim is under the age of 13, the penalties escalate to 25 years to life in prison. Furthermore, New Jersey’s No Early Release Act mandates that those convicted of first-degree and second-degree charges must serve at least 85% of their prison sentence before becoming eligible for parole. 

There are also financial penalties, including fines that could go as high as $250,000. However, the legal repercussions don’t end with incarceration or financial punishment. Defendants convicted of aggravated sexual assault face enduring social and legal challenges, particularly those tied to Megan’s Law.

Under Megan’s Law, anyone convicted of certain sexual offenses, including aggravated sexual assault, is required to register as a sex offender in New Jersey. This registration is not a one-time event—it comes with lifelong obligations, periodic updates, and constant scrutiny. Registrants must notify authorities of their address, school enrollment, or employment status, and changes must be reported within specific timeframes.

Once someone is listed on the sex offender registry, their information may be publicly accessible. This can lead to significant difficulties in securing housing, employment, and maintaining personal relationships. The stigma of registration often isolates people from their communities, creating barriers to rehabilitation and a meaningful return to society.

All of this makes mounting a strong and vigorous defense even more important. The Law Offices of Carlos Diaz-Cobo knows how to help.

Defending Against Aggravated Sexual Assault Charges

Legal defense calls for both strategic thinking and a deep understanding of the law. Sex crime cases are often highly emotional, and there’s a serious risk that the jury might prejudge the defendant. A defense attorney must know how to remind the jurors of the rights all defendants have--to the presumption of innocence and then be skilled at raising doubts about the prosecution’s case. 

Consent, or the lack thereof, often lies at the heart of these cases and can be a pivotal point in the defense. Proving that the interaction was consensual can shatter the prosecution’s case. However, New Jersey law defines consent in specific ways, and certain circumstances—such as the involvement of minors or the power imbalances noted above—may negate the possibility of consent altogether. We know how to dissect the nuances of consent, bringing all relevant information to light. 

Evidence, both physical and testimonial, plays an outsized role in these cases. DNA evidence, witness statements, electronic communications, and medical records are all commonly examined in aggravated sexual assault investigations. 

However, the way this evidence is collected, analyzed, and presented can either bolster or undermine a case. For example, improperly handled or interpreted evidence can cast doubt on its reliability. We know how to analyze the details, identify flaws, and use them to protect our client’s interests.

False allegations are another critical element that must be addressed. While many claims of sexual assault are genuine, false accusations do occur, perhaps motivated by personal grievances, custody battles, or misunderstandings. Defending against false allegations calls for thorough investigative work, such as uncovering inconsistencies in witness statements or motives for fabrication.