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Adam Walsh Child Protection And Safety Act Lawyers

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The Adam Walsh Child Protection And Safety Act

Sex offenders face different penalties depending on state laws, but a federal statute known as the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act aims to prevent child sexual exploitation. The legislation calls for strict action against convicted criminals. However, our Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act lawyers will fight for your freedom.

At Aiello, Harris, Abate Law Group PC, we tackle complex sex crime cases. If you’re facing charges that are subject to the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act and other related New Jersey sex crime laws, turn to us for your defense. We have robust litigation strategies and will represent you without judgment.

Sex Offender Registration Requirements

Prior to the bill’s passing in 2006, many states kept a sex offender registry outlining all convicted offenders. Under this law, sex offender registration is mandatory for anyone convicted of a sex crime.

Law enforcement officials perform a risk assessment to determine the level of danger an individual poses to their community. Their findings aid with registration tier classification. The law requires states to organize their criminal registries into three categories:

  • Tier 1: Offenders within this tier must be on the state’s registry for 15 years, though they can request removal after 10 years. These individuals must update their registration information once a year.
  • Tier 2: If you’re classified as a Tier 2 felon, expect to be on the sex offender registry for 25 years. You’ll have to provide updated information every six months.
  • Tier 3: Law enforcement officials place the strictest penalties on Tier 3 offenders. Under this statute, convicted individuals will remain on the registry for life and must update their information every three months.

Co-Author Of Megan’s Law

Our firm has former prosecutors, including Joseph Del Russo, who was a past member of the Protection Subcommittee of the New Jersey Governor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect. He was also invited to participate in the Attorney General’s working group, where he helped draft the Sex Offender Risk Assessment scale used in Megan’s Law cases.

You Could Be Subject to a Federal Felony

If you’re convicted of a sex crime against a minor and don’t register as a sex offender, it’s a federal felony. The statute also imposes harsher punishments for serious crimes like child prostitution and sex trafficking.

Our Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act lawyers understand the potential consequences at both the state and federal levels. We do everything we can to clear a defendant’s name of any wrongdoing and help them navigate the legal process.

Understanding the Act’s Federal Funding

Federal funding exists as part of the act’s civil commitment program. Under the U.S. Attorney General, grants are available for local jurisdictions that deem individuals sexually dangerous. These programs aim to keep the community and its vulnerable children safe from harm.

Case Study

Sexual Assault Charges Dismissed in Somerville, NJ

A recent case in Somerset County, Somerville, New Jersey, venue in the Superior Court proved that point.  A man was accused of sexual assault, violation of NJSA 2C: 14-2. The allegation was that while a woman was drunk, he took advantage of her and committed the act of sexual assault. He was in prison for five to 10 years, under Megan’s Law.

What About the Child Abuse/Neglect Registry?

Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act lawyers often deal with cases involving the sexual exploitation of minors, but the law also encompasses other forms of abuse and neglect. Statewide registries exist for parents, legal guardians, and other individuals responsible for caring for children.

Extensive background checks take place to identify instances of abuse or neglectful behavior toward children. Individuals subject to these checks in New Jersey may include:

  • Anyone assuming the care of children with incarcerated parents
  • Department of Children and Families employees or contractors
  • Daycare center employees
  • Professional guardians for the elderly

What Qualifies As Child Exploitation Material?

The main purpose of this federal legislation is to protect minors from exploitation and violent crime. What constitutes child exploitation? Crimes that fit this description include:

You need experienced Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act lawyers on your side if you find yourself facing sex crime charges. The statute limits the defense’s access to specific child exploitation materials. Our team at Aiello, Harris, Abate Law Group PC understands the importance of federal compliance and approaches cases in an appropriate manner.

How the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act Impacts Foster and Adoptive Care

This law doesn’t just pertain to sex offenders and their victims. Say you want to apply to be a foster or adoptive parent in New Jersey. Under federal law, the state’s Department of Children and Families will conduct a thorough background check on you before placing any children in your care.

Doing so prevents child endangerment by ensuring kids only receive care from those who won’t abuse or neglect them.

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Consult Our Professional Defense Attorneys for New Jersey Sex Crime Charges

Being accused of a sex crime, especially one against a minor, can have a long-term impact. Convicted individuals must join the state’s sex offender registry for a minimum period and regularly update officials on their whereabouts. Additional penalties may include lengthy prison sentences, significant fines, and limited future opportunities.

Don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act lawyers understand the severity of these charges and will fight for you. Contact Aiello, Harris, Abate Law Group PC today to discuss your case and learn how we can help.

Call us today at (908) 873-3571 or contact us. Your initial consultation will take place over the phone, and you can schedule an appointment at one of our office locations across New Jersey.

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Recent Case Results

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