A method for fabricating a magnetic transducer having a nonmagnetic intermediate layer is described. A trench is provided in the intermediate layer. The trench has a profile and location corresponding to a pole. A first nonmagnetic gap layer is provided. At least part of the first nonmagnetic gap layer resides in the trench. A pole including magnetic material(s) is provided. At least part of the pole resides in the trench and on the part of the nonmagnetic layer in the trench. At least part of the intermediate layer adjacent to the pole is removed and a second nonmagnetic gap layer provided. The second nonmagnetic gap layer is thicker than the first nonmagnetic gap layer. Part of the second nonmagnetic layer and part of the first nonmagnetic layer adjacent to the pole form a side gap. A side shield, a gap, and a top shield are also provided.