Suffolk Sex Crimes Lawyer
An arrest or conviction for a sex crime can have a profound impact on your life, your relationships, and even your freedom. If convicted, you could face enormous fines and years in prison. This type of crime could continue to impact your life long after your jail term ends thanks to the collateral consequences it may carry.
If you are facing sex crime accusations, a talented criminal defense attorney could help you defend yourself. A Suffolk sex crimes lawyer could review ate charges and help you build a solid defense.
Types of Sex Crimes in Suffolk
Sex crimes in general relate to coerced or forced sexual contact. This could involve the use of physical force or involve a situation where the alleged victim is unable to consent. The inability to consent could result from intoxication or simply due to their young age. Some prominent sex crimes include:
Rape
The crime of rape is governed by Code of Virginia Section 18.2-61. By statute, rape involves sexual intercourse with someone against their will. This crime could occur through the use of force, violence, or threats. Unlike some jurisdictions, the crime of rape can occur between spouses. The penalties that come with a rape conviction are some of the toughest possible. In fact, a conviction could result in a life sentence. A seasoned Suffolk attorney could work with a person accused of rape or other sex crimes to beat these charges at trial. If acquitted, an accused person could avoid these severe penalties entirely.
Carnal Knowledge of Children
Code of Virginia Section 18.2-63 outlaws all sexual contact with children that are 13 or 14 years of age. This statute applies specifically when the person is not accused of using force. This is known as statutory rape in some jurisdictions.
The penalty under this section depends on the age difference between the defendant and the alleged victim. If the defendant is three or more years older, the crime is treated as a Class 6 felony. If they are within three years of the alleged victim, the defendant faces a Class 4 misdemeanor.
Carnal Knowledge of an Inmate
Because of the power dynamic between a person accused of a crime and law enforcement officers, and sexual contact between the two is treated as a criminal act. Under Code of Virginia Section 18.2-64.2, carnal knowledge of an inmate or parolee by any law enforcement officer, parole officer, or employee of the Department of Corrections is a Class 6 felony. This is true even when force is not used.
Collateral Consequences of a Sex Crimes Conviction
The penalties for a sex crime conviction are often severe. Additionally, there are other consequences that can follow a conviction for sex crimes. These are known as collateral consequences. While not officially part of a defendant’s sentence, these consequences nevertheless have a major impact on their life. These consequences include:
- Addition to the sex offender’s registry
- Harm to reputation
- Trouble finding employment
- Difficulty securing housing
- Loss of constitutional rights
If a Suffolk attorney helps a person accused of sex crimes win at trial, they could avoid both statutory and collateral penalties.
Work with a Suffolk Sex Crimes Attorney
The mere accusation of a Suffolk sex offense can be devastating. That said, a conviction could lead to the type of harm that follows a person forever.
To help yourself avoid a sex crimes conviction, contact a Suffolk sex crimes lawyer right away. At your initial consultation, an attorney could carefully review your case and advise you on your chances for acquittal. Call today to schedule a consultation.
