Megan’s Law and Parole Supervision for Life In New Jersey

New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country for people convicted of sex crimes. Individuals not only face prison and the stigma of being labeled a sex offender, but they also must try to abide by a laundry list of restrictions and rules under Megan’s Law, including Parole Supervision for Life.The consequences for a sex crime conviction could not be more serious. That is why it is critical that anyone facing charges for a sex crime obtain skilled legal counsel. The attorneys at Law Offices of John J. Zarych are known for their aggressive defense tactics. John Zarych has built a national reputation as a defender of adults with autism who have been accused of sex crimes.

If you are accused of a sex crime in Northfield or Cape May, you have too much to lose if you do not hire the right lawyer. Do not take chances with your future. Call the Law Offices of John J. Zarych at (609) 616-4956 for a complimentary confidential consultation. You can also reach us online.

WHAT IS MEGAN’S LAW?

New Jersey’s enactment of Megan’s Law changed the landscape for individuals convicted of a sex offense. Megan’s Law was named after a girl named Megan Kanka, who was murdered by a neighbor after he sexually assaulted her. The purpose of the law is to put members of the public on notice of the presence of a convicted sex offender in the community.

Megan’s Law requires individuals who were convicted of certain sex offenses, such as sexual assault or aggravated sexual contact, to register where they live with local law enforcement and to keep police informed when they move.

Our goal is to help our clients fight charges that would result in mandatory sex offender registration. This requires detailed investigation of the underlying charges and evidence.

HOW PAROLE SUPERVISION FOR LIFE WORKS

In 2004, Megan’s Law was made tougher by the addition of Parole Supervision for Life. Parole Supervision for Life (PSL) is different from other forms of parole. It is highly invasive. Individuals convicted of a sex offense must submit to searches of their homes or themselves by a parole officer if they are suspected of violating the terms of parole. They may also be forced to take a polygraph once a year.

Parole Supervision for Life touches almost every aspect of an individual’s life. Individuals may have their Internet use monitored and are prohibited from creating profiles on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The worst part of Parole Supervision for Life is that it does not terminate. The only way for an individual to get off PSL is to petition the parole board after 15 years. The parole board must be convinced that the individual is no longer a threat to the community and there have not been any other offenses committed in the interim time.

According to N.J.A.C. 10A:71-6.12, Parole Supervision for Life individuals convicted of committing or attempting to commit the following offenses may be sentenced to Parole Supervision for Life:

• Sexual assault
• Aggravated sexual assault
• Aggravated criminal sexual contact
• Endangering the welfare of a child
• Child luring
• Kidnapping

TALK TO OUR ATTORNEYS ABOUT BUILDING YOUR SEX CRIMES DEFENSE

Our lawyers understand what is at stake for individuals charged with these offenses, and we know how to build an effective defense. We fight aggressively for our clients’ rights. We frequently appear in Atlantic and Cape May county courthouses as well as many other counties in New Jersey.

If you are facing sex crime charges, get help from a skilled defense firm. Schedule a free consultation by completing our online form or calling us toll free at (609) 616-4956.