While all criminal charges are serious matters, allegations of sexual wrongdoing carry a stigma that can last a lifetime. The damage to your reputation might be immediate, and a conviction could lead to long lasting severe penalties, including fines and incarceration. When you have been charged with a sex-related crime, working with a skilled criminal defense attorney is wise and ensures that you do not have to face this difficult situation alone.
Relying on the guidance of a dedicated defense attorney like Christopher L. Jones could help to improve your chances of getting a desirable positive outcome in your case. Let a Pickens County sex crimes lawyer help you evaluate your options and advocate for you during this time.
What Are Examples of Sex Offenses?
There is a full spectrum of sexually based offenses under state law, and each charge has its own elements and penalties. Some of the most common examples include the following:
Solicitation and Prostitution
The exchange of sex for money is outlawed in Pickens County, and both parties to these transactions are guilty of a criminal offense that would necessitate working with an experienced attorney. Prostitution involves offering sex for money or some other thing of value, while someone offering compensation for this kind of encounter has committed solicitation.
Criminal Sexual Conduct
This offense comes in three different categories, known as degrees, due to covering a wide range of behavior. Criminal sexual conduct in the first degree involves some kind of battery using aggravated force or incapacitation. It is the most serious of the three and carries the steepest penalties. A conviction in the third degree involves sexual battery with the use of force, which is a lesser offense. It is not a minor allegation, as the charge carries up to 10 years in prison.
Indecent Exposure
As one of the few misdemeanor offenses that falls into this category, an arrest for indecent exposure should still be taken seriously. If convicted, the damage to your reputation alone could follow you for the rest of your life. This offense involves willfully and maliciously exposing themselves either in public or in the view of someone else. The state has adopted an exception to this offense that covers breastfeeding in public. While treated as a misdemeanor, a conviction can result in up to three years in prison and steep monetary fines.
Possible Defense Strategies
Sexual misconduct allegations are serious, but you have the right to defend yourself. With the help of a Pickens County sex crimes attorney, you could develop the strongest defense possible. The right strategy is crucial. While there are numerous options available, not all of them are appropriate in each case. For example, consent is a viable defense to rape but not to sexual abuse of a child.
In many situations, challenging the state’s case may be the best option. The prosecutor has the burden of proof, and arguing that they have failed to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt is frequently successful at trial. Factual errors are often common in these cases. If the police arrested the wrong person for a crime, arguing mistaken identity might be the right tactic.
Talk to a Sex Crimes Attorney in Pickens County About Your Case Today
Our Principal Attorney understands the stress and worry that comes with facing these offenses in court. When you rely on skilled legal counsel, you improve your odds of a favorable outcome.
Call a Pickens County sex crimes lawyer as soon as possible to start building your case. Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law, would be happy to set up an initial consultation at your convenience.
