A Fauquier County sex crimes lawyer can provide legal representation aimed at avoiding conviction, staying out of jail, and staying off the sex offender registry. Every case is different and you need to make smart choices about how to respond to the charges and evidence against you. Let an attorney in Fauquier County help with sex crimes charges so you can try to protect your reputation and freedom.
Raising defenses to sex crimes charges could result in a not guilty verdict. Your attorney will help you to explore different possible defenses that may be available in your case. The right defense will depend upon the nature of the charges and the evidence against you. Consent may be a defense to accusations of rape or sexual assault, but not if a minor was involved. Other defenses may include claims of mistaken identity, planted memories, or false accusations.
In some cases, you do not even need to introduce any defenses, but can simply argue that the prosecutor has not met the burden of proving the case beyond a reasonable doubt. An experienced sex crimes lawyer knows how to present a compelling case to a jury that makes the jury question the evidence against you.
A Fauquier County sex crimes lawyer can also talk to a prosecutor on your behalf if your hope is to resolve the case outside of court. Prosecutors may be willing to reduce charges or agree to a plea deal with a lighter sentence depending on the specific, unique circumstances of your case. Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf to get the best deal.
There are different types of behaviors considered sex offenses in Fauquier County. The offenses with the most serious penalties generally involve sexual acts with minors. In Virginia, carnal knowledge of a child between the ages of 13 and 15 can result in Class 4 felony charges if a defendant is 18 or older. If the defendant is under 18 and less than three years older than an alleged victim 13 or older, the offense is still a Class 6 felony.
A defendant who is charged with sex offenses involving a minor, including child pornography offenses, is likely going to be required to register as a sex offender. Jail time is also a likely outcome if convicted. This is why avoiding conviction whenever possible is so important.
Nonconsensual sex acts with an adult can also lead to sex crimes charges. When penetration occurs, the defendant may be charged with rape. Non-penetrative sex acts can lead to sexual assault charges. Many cases of alleged rape or assault are he said/she said cases and there are disputes about what actual sexual behaviors occurred. An attorney can help to cast doubt on reports of nonconsensual sexual behavior.
Responding in a strategic way to sex crimes charges can mean the difference between your freedom or going to jail and registering as a sex offender. Doing everything you can to protect your future is the only smart choice. Contact a Fauquier County sex crimes lawyer today for help navigating the criminal justice system and protecting your rights when you have been accused of a sex offense.
Northern Virginia Criminal Defense Group
