Charged with a Computer or Internet Crime? We Defend Your Rights and Digital Freedom

Online activity is under more scrutiny than ever—and a single digital misstep can lead to serious criminal charges. Whether you’re accused of online harassment, hacking, identity theft, or wire fraud, the state and federal penalties for cybercrime can be severe.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we defend individuals charged with cyber offenses in Cherry Hill and throughout South Jersey. We understand how quickly a routine investigation can escalate into criminal prosecution, especially when law enforcement seizes devices or misinterprets technical activity. Our attorneys challenge illegal searches, negotiate pre-indictment resolutions, and aggressively defend your digital reputation.

Common Cybercrime Charges in New Jersey

We defend clients facing charges related to:

• Unauthorized access to protected computers or networks
• Identity theft and phishing scams
• Wire fraud or email account compromise
• Cyberstalking and online harassment
• Sextortion or non-consensual image distribution
• Internet-based theft, scams, or embezzlement
• Unauthorized use of employee credentials or business systems
• Digital trespass or data manipulation
• Possession or distribution of illegal digital content
• Hacking under federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA)

Whether charges stem from social media activity, online business practices, or alleged digital surveillance, we fight for your rights under both New Jersey and federal law.

New Jersey Computer Crime Laws and Penalties

Cybercrimes are often charged under:

• N.J.S.A. 2C:20-25 (Computer Criminal Activity Act)
• N.J.S.A. 2C:21-17 (Identity Theft and False Documents)
• N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4.1 (Cyber Harassment)
• Federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 1030 (CFAA)

Penalties vary based on the charge and damage amount:

• Fourth-degree crimes: Up to 18 months in prison
• Third-degree crimes: 3–5 years in prison
• Second-degree crimes: 5–10 years in prison and heavy fines
• Federal convictions: Possible prison time, asset forfeiture, and restitution orders

In some cases, courts may impose device bans, no-contact orders, or registration requirements.

Cybercrime Defense Strategies We Use

Our firm develops case-specific defenses such as:

• Lack of intent or knowledge (especially in shared network or family use cases)
• Insufficient evidence linking you to the activity
• Misidentification due to IP spoofing or compromised accounts
• Violations of your Fourth Amendment rights during digital searches
• Entrapment in sting operations
• Improper digital forensics or flawed chain of custody
• Evidence obtained from illegal device seizures or open-source errors

We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and challenge vague or overbroad indictments.

Why Early Legal Intervention Matters in Cybercrime Cases

Many cybercrime investigations start with:

• Search warrants and digital device seizures
• Grand jury subpoenas or administrative requests
• Employer or university misconduct allegations
• Tips from platforms like Meta, Google, or Apple

Speaking to law enforcement without counsel can jeopardize your case. We intervene early to:

• Review the scope of the investigation
• Protect your devices and data
• Prevent overcharging or escalation to federal court
• Negotiate a non-criminal resolution when possible

The earlier you retain defense counsel, the better your chances of avoiding permanent consequences.

Where We Defend Cybercrime Cases in South Jersey

We represent clients in:

• Camden County Superior Court – Criminal Division
• Burlington and Gloucester County courts
• Municipal court for cyber harassment or minor offenses
• U.S. District Court – District of New Jersey (federal cybercrime defense)
• Expungement proceedings for past internet crime charges
• Juvenile court (if the defendant is under 18)

We defend clients accused by individuals, employers, schools, or government agencies.

Cybercrime FAQs for New Jersey Defendants

Q: Can I be charged with cybercrime even if I didn’t hack anything?
A: Yes. Many cybercrimes involve unauthorized access, online impersonation, or misuse of personal information—even without “hacking” in the technical sense.

Q: What if the police seized my phone or laptop?
A: Do not speak to investigators without a lawyer. We may be able to challenge the legality of the search or limit how the data is used.

Q: Is cyber harassment a criminal offense in New Jersey?
A: Yes. Online threats, doxxing, or repeated unwanted messages may lead to disorderly persons or fourth-degree charges under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4.1.

Q: Will this affect my job or school?
A: Possibly. Employers, licensing boards, and universities may take disciplinary action even before trial. We help minimize collateral consequences.

Q: Can I go to jail for a first-time cybercrime offense?
A: It depends. Some defendants qualify for pretrial intervention (PTI) or conditional dismissal. We work to keep first-time offenders out of jail whenever possible.

Speak to a Cherry Hill Cybercrime Defense Attorney Today

A criminal accusation involving computers or digital activity can threaten your freedom, finances, and future. At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we defend clients across Cherry Hill and South Jersey against all types of cybercrime charges. From pre-indictment investigations to felony-level federal defense, we deliver focused, strategic representation to protect your rights.

To schedule a confidential consultation, call (856) 209-3111 or email [email protected]. We respond quickly to protect your devices, your record, and your digital life.