Cyber Crime Charges in New Jersey
April 4, 2020
Remember when the answers to everything weren’t found on Google? Back in the day, it could take weeks or even years to research a problem and find the answer. Today, nearly everything has moved to an online and digital space.
Due to the rapid rise of technology, lawmakers have been forced to define a wide variety of computer actions as cyber crimes. What types of actions are considered cyber crimes in New Jersey? How can you defend yourself if you get charged with a cyber crime? Get the answers to all your questions below.
What Are Cyber Crimes?
Cyber crimes are types of criminal activities that occur on either the internet or with the use of computer technology. As you can imagine, a lot of different types of crimes can happen in the digital sphere. Here are a few types of actions that are defined as internet crimes in New Jersey:
- Bullying, intimidating or harassing individuals online
- Identity theft
- Altering, damaging or destroying data on a computer
- Accessing or attempting to access private information
The least severe computer crimes are charged as a 4th-degree crime in New Jersey. This type of offense can land you in jail for 18 months. A second-degree crime could land you in prison for five to ten years. Depending on your sentence, you may also be required to pay significant fines, too.
How to Defend Yourself Against Cyber Crime Charges
Depending on the nature of your offense, you could be facing significant penalties if you’re convicted. If you’re charged with a cyber crime, then you should utilize your Constitutional right to hire a legal representative. You and your attorney will discuss the specifics of your case, and together, you’ll devise a solid defense strategy. Here are a few of the most common defenses used in cyber crime cases:
- Lack of knowledge or intent
- You were authorized to access the information
- You were coerced into the action
- Mistake of fact (you didn’t commit the crime)
- Your rights were violated during the arrest or interrogation
The type of strategy you use to defend yourself will heavily depend on the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime, your arrest and any evidence the state has against you.
Contact an Experienced Summit Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Cyber Crime Charges in Summit
Were you arrested or charged with cyber crimes in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Zegas Law have successfully represented clients charged with cyber crimes in Essex County, Union County, Morris County, Middlesex County, Bergen County, Somerset County, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 833-4724 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 60 Morris Turnpike #3, Summit, New Jersey 07901.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.