A sex crime lawyer represents clients charged with coerced or illegal sexual conduct. If convicted, defendants can expect severe penalties, such as prison time, large fines, and registering as a sex offender. Since a conviction can follow you for the rest of your life, mounting a defense is critical. Learn about the common types of cases sex crime lawyers handle and reach out if you need help.
Sex crime lawyers handle various cases, including rape, sexual assault, child molestation, internet sex crimes, and human trafficking. Attorneys evaluate the evidence and create a defense strategy. That might include petitioning to get the charges dropped or negotiating a plea deal. Sometimes, it is necessary to go to court to defend the charges.
Missouri classifies forcible rape as a felony. If convicted, people can serve as little as five years or as much as life in prison. The minimum penalty increases to 15 years if the offender used a weapon or physically injured the victim. If the defendant is convicted of the forcible rape of a child under 12, the minimum sentence increases to 30 years.
Sexual assault is also a felony. It can include any inappropriate touching, up to penetration. If convicted, people can spend up to seven years in prison for sexual assault. Sometimes, attorneys can negotiate to reduce rape charges to sexual assault.
The state defines child molestation as “lewd and lascivious” touching. Depending on the circumstances, it is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Recently, the state has increased the penalties for felony child molestation from four to seven years. However, offenders may also reduce the prison sentence by paying a large fine of up to $10,000.
Missouri recognizes various internet sex crimes. These crimes include child pornography, sending unwanted sexually explicit photos, and viewing pornography in a public place. The penalties depend on the specific offense. However, a prison life sentence is possible if convicted of a felony internet sex crime, such as child pornography.
Human trafficking is unlike other sex crimes in Missouri. With other sex crimes, the person must engage in a sexual act to be charged. However, with human trafficking, being part of the conspiracy may lead to being charged and convicted. A felony human trafficking conviction can result in fines of up to $250,000 and up to life in prison.
If you are facing sex crime charges, you might think you do not have a chance. You may believe that getting charged is the same as being convicted, but that is not true. Contact a sex crime lawyer so you can build a defense. Whether you reach a plea deal or fight the case at trial, you do have options.
Call us at (417) 865-2181 for more information from Dean Price Law or to schedule a consultation in our office in Springfield. NOTE: This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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