Types Of Sex Crime Charges
Sex crime charges can carry serious legal and personal consequences. These offenses range from non-physical misconduct to violent acts, and many are treated as felonies. While the laws vary by state, most charges in this category involve non-consensual behavior or conduct involving minors. An experienced sex crimes lawyer can help you understand the potential consequences of your specific charges and how best to move forward with your case.
- Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is a broad term that typically refers to any unwanted sexual contact or activity done without consent. This can include groping, attempted rape, or forced sexual acts. Charges can be brought even when there is no physical injury. Depending on the facts, sexual assault may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. In some states, aggravated sexual assault charges can apply when force, threats, or weapons are involved.
- Rape Charges
Rape charges involve non-consensual sexual intercourse and are considered among the most serious sex offenses. These charges can arise in a variety of contexts, including between strangers, acquaintances, or intimate partners. Penalties are often severe, especially when there are aggravating factors such as the age of the victim or use of violence. In many jurisdictions, a conviction may lead to mandatory prison time and lifetime registration as a sex offender. Rape charges are very serious, and it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible if you are facing these charges.
- Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Sexual harassment at work is a form of unlawful conduct that can also involve criminal charges in certain cases. While some instances are handled through civil employment claims, others—such as unwanted physical contact or threats in exchange for workplace favors—may result in criminal charges. Employees who are victims of workplace harassment can also pursue legal action through human resources or with the help of an employment attorney. However, when the conduct crosses into assault or coercion, it can be prosecuted as a crime.
- Indecent Exposure
Indecent exposure involves the intentional revealing of one’s private parts in a public place or in view of others without consent. This charge often comes up in situations involving public nudity or lewd acts. Even though some might consider this behavior a prank or a minor offense, it can lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges depending on prior convictions or the presence of minors.
- Online Sexual Exploitation
Sex-related charges increasingly involve conduct that occurs online. This includes soliciting minors over the internet, sending explicit images to underage individuals, or engaging in sexually explicit chats with minors. Law enforcement often uses sting operations to catch offenders, and convictions carry significant legal penalties.
- Lewd conduct
Lewd conduct typically includes engaging in sexually explicit behavior in public or in the presence of others. This might involve masturbation or other acts considered offensive or obscene. These charges often depend on witness statements and police reports, and while sometimes treated as misdemeanors, they can lead to jail time and mandatory counseling.
Contact A Lawyer Today
Attorneys like those at Stechschulte Nell can attest to the seriousness of defending against sex crimes charges in a timely and effective manner. Whether the charge involves physical contact, digital communication, or workplace behavior, these cases require careful attention and thorough preparation.